Dog Dry Mouth

by Diane
(Niagara falls, New York)

My female dog is 14 and has canine cushings. I have not gone with regular treatments because of her age and the side effects. She is given raw meats and cooked vegetables and other "real" foods, along with vitamins, St.johns, e,c, etc., etc., from all the articles I have read. She has been on this regimen for over a year and is actually doing pretty well.

The one thing I haven't been able to find in any of the articles or research is how to treat her mouth being so dry. She has a clacking of her teeth, which bites the back of her mouth which is raw and red. I squeeze vit.e on my finger and massage it in that area but don't know if that really helps. Any info would be appreciated.
thanks.

Diane

Editor Comment - Dog Dry Mouth

Dear Diane,

Thank you for your question.

Canine Cushing's Disease or Hyperadrenocorticism is a disturbance in adrenal gland function where there is a chronic excess of the hormone cortisol. Common symptoms of this condition are increased appetite, heat intolerance, weakness, alopecia (dog hair loss), weakened skin, obesity, increased thirst and urination.

Increased thirst and excessive urination will cause dryness in the mouth, ultimately disturbing oral and gum health.

There is a specific treatment for Canine Cushing's disease, which also requires regular monitoring of cortisol levels in order to confirm any improvement.

As you mentioned, if your dog is older and has certain sensitivity towards a specific treatment, it is better to take extra care and use alternative treatment plans, such as using natural remedies.

It is possible that care can help to improve your dog's condition, but remember this can never be an alternative to specific therapy. The monitoring of your dog's cortisol level and a reduction in the severity of symptoms over time are some of the indicators for success in any treatment plan.

To control symptoms only, you can offer your dog water, preferably containing vitamins and energy content and by keeping your dog's activities limited. Also, research has shown that dogs with Cushing's are that are under stress, or who are not treated specifically for the condition, can suffer from the reduced capacity of different glands, including the salivary glands and/or a dog can develop urinary incontinence (problems with the ability to control urination).

Understanding the current health and sensitivity of your dog to specific conventional treatment approaches, it is recommended that along with the care and management measures you have been following, you should try a natural remedy such as Cushex Drops as well, as an alternative to specific treatment. Also, offer a lot of clean drinking water and make sure that your dog does not feel stressed.

A Vitamin E supplement such as K9 Vitamin E is also an effective option, as it has anti microbial properties and hastens the healing process.

Please keep us up to date on the dog dry mouth condition. Best wishes to you and your dog.