Penny's Success Story
Say hello to Penny.
Penny is a sweet 6 year-old beagle who was brought to the clinic by her concerned family. She wasn’t feeling well—lethargic, with no interest in food for several days, and a slightly bloated abdomen.
After a thorough examination and a full blood panel, her veterinarian diagnosed Penny with Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism).
Penny’s family is understandably worried, but the good news is that Addison’s disease is a highly manageable condition once it is identified and a proper treatment plan is in place.
What is Addison's Disease?
Addison’s disease occurs when a dog's adrenal glands (located near the kidneys) fail to produce enough essential hormones: cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol helps the body manage stress, maintain blood sugar, and regulate metabolism. Aldosterone controls vital electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which keep the heart pumping normally and regulate hydration.
Penny’s symptoms—lethargy, severe loss of appetite, and a bloated abdomen—are classic signs of this hormonal shortage. Without these regulatory hormones, her body's internal balance was heavily disrupted.
Fortunately, treatment replaces exactly what Penny's body is missing, allowing her to live a long, full, and happy life. Her ongoing care will typically involve a combination of medications and stress management.
In the initial weeks, Penny needed regular blood tests to monitor her electrolyte levels and ensure her medication dosage was perfectly calibrated. Once stabilized, these checks decrease to just a few times a year.
As long as Penny receives her medications consistently and her stressors are managed proactively, her long-term prognosis is excellent, and she can expect a normal canine lifespan.
When Penny first presented with her symptoms, we knew how stressful the whole experience was for her family. Their care and dedication for her are an inspiration. Our entire team here at Hazel Ridge is thrilled to see her wagging tail again.
Penny is amazing and is continuing to do well!