ArcaMax

Cathy,

I read your column about an older dog's urination problem. I was surprised that you did not mention low thyroid as a possible cause of the problem. We have had four older dogs develop urination problems as they aged that were caused by low thyroid. Sometimes, low thyroid also manifests itself with noticeable hair loss, but not always. All of our dogs were small (less than 8 pounds), and all were female. All responded well to twice daily thyroid medication of the proper dose. Maybe the problem is not as well know as I thought it would be. – Bob, Naperville, Illinois

Dear Bob,

Excessive urination is not one of the commonly listed symptoms for thyroid issues and could be a symptom of many other health problems. Sometimes, I don’t have the space to list all the possibilities, but I always appreciate my readers sharing their personal experiences with me. I always learn something new.

I am wondering though, how all four of your dogs could all have similar thyroid problems (unless they were related). What are the odds of that happening?

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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