Senior dog's dead fur, excessive thirst. What are treatment options?

Question

My 12 year old Blue Heeler has not shed for over 2 years. Her fur is dead and colorless. She has pulled some out. She also has very excessive thirst. My vet thinks it could be an adrenal problem but has no suggestion for treatment besides shaving her next week and seeing if normal hair will return. No diarrhea or lethargy. She takes thyroid meds. Any treatment suggestions besides shaving her? Thanks. Pet's info: Dog | Australian Cattle Dog | Female | spayed | 12 years and 1 month old

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

If your vet thinks this may be an adrenal problem you may want to discuss testing first. Cushing's disease can cause coat changes and increased thirst, and is treated with medication, typically a medication called trilostane. It's also possible that R2's thyroid disease is the cause if her thyroid levels have not been checked recently. If the coat changes are due to an endocrine disease like Cushing's or hyperthyroidism and her coat is shaved it might not grow back well. Talk to your veterinarian about what test they would recommend.

Senior dog's dead fur, excessive thirst. What are treatment options?

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