01/30/2025
🐾 Meet January’s Patient of the Month: Odie! 🐾
Sweet Odie is an 8-year-old Dachshund who recently visited our Mission hospital for emergency care. Odie was transferred to our hospital after his primary veterinarian noticed severe dehydration, lethargy, and concerning bloodwork results, including hypoglycemia and electrolyte imbalances. His family had noticed a decrease in appetite and some digestive discomfort, but things took a turn when he became increasingly weak and showed signs of distress.
Upon arrival at MVES, emergency veterinarian Dr. Alyssa Burcham quickly assessed Odie and his lab work. His condition suggested a potential Addisonian crisis—a life-threatening event caused by undiagnosed Addison’s disease ⚠️, a condition where the adrenal glands fail to produce essential hormones. He was given intensive supportive care, including IV fluids, dextrose supplementation, and close blood pressure monitoring. Dr. Lawrence and the overnight ER team worked diligently to help him stabilize.
A screening cortisol test confirmed our suspicions, and we initiated steroid treatment while awaiting the results of a confirmatory ACTH stimulation test 🩺. This test assesses adrenal gland function and helps confirm Addison’s disease. Odie had a unique presentation, with no history of vomiting or diarrhea (the most common symptoms). This disease is more common in females and medium-to-large-breed dogs.
Thankfully, Odie responded well to therapy! His blood glucose levels stabilized, his energy improved, and by the next day, he was even eating (though he preferred chicken! 🍗). Once stable, Dr. Heilman was able to send Odie home to his loving family. At discharge, Odie’s owners received an at-home treatment plan, including daily steroids and monthly Percorten injections to help manage his condition.
A few days later, the confirmatory ACTH test results came back, and Odie was officially diagnosed with Addison’s disease ✅. While this diagnosis may seem daunting, Addison’s is a manageable condition with proper treatment. Odie’s family remains committed to his health, and he will continue regular checkups to fine-tune his medication regimen.
Odie’s journey is a testament to the importance of early intervention and the expertise of emergency veterinary care❤️. We are so proud of sweet Odie and grateful to his family for trusting us with his care.
