Deciding when to euthanize a dog with Cushing’s disease can be heartbreaking. That’s why integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby invited her friend, end-of-life care veterinarian Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff, to share some heartfelt words of wisdom and comfort. Dr. Woodruff explains how to recognize the final stages of advanced Cushing’s disease and gives advice about when it might be time to say goodbye to your dear dog.
Finding out your dog has Cushing’s disease can feel stressful and overwhelming. What will this mean for your dog? Will you need to euthanize your dog because of his or her Cushing’s? How will you know it is the right time to put your dog down?
These are all valid questions. Dr. Buzby has already written an excellent in-depth blog on Cushing’s Disease in dogs that address the medical aspects of the disease. So I’ll quickly hit the high points before moving on to the goal of this article—preparing you for the challenging decisions that may lie ahead.
Cushing’s disease basics
In short, Cushing’s disease means that your dog’s body is producing an excessive amount of the steroid cortisol. This is problematic because having the correct amount of steroid hormones is important for the body to function correctly.
Normally, the pituitary gland (located in the brain) produces the ACTH hormone which tells the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. But, when either of these glands isn’t working correctly, steroid levels can become too low (i.e. Addison’s disease in dogs, which is also called hypoadrenocorticism). Or, they can become too high (i.e. Cushing’s disease, which is also called hyperadrenocorticism).
If your vet suspects your dog has Cushing’s disease, he or she will run blood tests (and possibly perform some imaging) to reach a diagnosis. Then, he or she will formulate a treatment plan, which usually involves lifelong medications like trilostane for dogs or surgery to remove a cortisol-producing adrenal gland tumor. Plus, your vet will discuss how to care for your dog with Cushing’s disease. And he or she can help answer the question in the back of your mind—how long can my dog live with Cushing’s disease?
What is the life expectancy for dogs with Cushing’s disease?
If you were to look at the various papers published in veterinary journals, you would see that the average survival time after diagnosis is 2-2.5 years for dogs with Cushing’s disease due to an ACTH-producing pituitary tumor (i.e. pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease). And for dogs with an adrenal tumor (i.e. adrenal dependent Cushing’s disease), the average survival time is 1 year with medications and ranges from 1.5-4 years (depending on the paper) with surgery.
Keep in mind, though, that these numbers are averages. When it comes to looking at the prognosis for Cushing’s disease, accounting for the differences from one dog to another is important.
Some dogs receive a diagnosis of Cushing’s disease, and their disease seems to progress slowly. They are otherwise healthy enough to have surgery to treat an adrenal gland tumor in dogs (if indicated), they respond well to medications, and they continue enjoying a relatively normal life for years.
Other dogs go downhill much more rapidly. They may already be frail at the time of their diagnosis. Or they may have other life-altering diseases as well, such as diabetes, kidney failure in dogs, canine cognitive dysfunction, osteoarthritis in dogs, or heart disease in dogs. These dogs may seem worn down, have little energy to enjoy life, and have numerous secondary infections. In those cases, they may only live with Cushing’s for a short time (weeks to months) after their diagnosis.
How will I know when to euthanize my dog with Cushing’s disease?
These differences in outcome demonstrate that every dog and every disease process is different. And that is part of what makes Cushing’s such a frustrating disease for pet caretakers and veterinarians alike.
There is no definitive point where euthanasia becomes a clear-cut or easy decision. But knowing the signs of advanced Cushing’s disease, how to decide if you should keep going with treatments, and how to assess your dog’s quality of life, can help with the decision of when to put a dog down.
What are the symptoms of advanced Cushing’s disease in dogs?
Your dog’s Cushing’s disease may be worsening if you see the following signs:
- Significantly increased thirst in dogs (i.e. polydipsia) and severe increases in urination volume (i.e. polyuria)
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs in dogs) because the excessive cortisol suppresses the immune system
- Dramatic weight gain, especially in the belly, gives a pot-bellied dog appearance
- Ravenous appetite, sometimes to the point of stealing food from the table or the counter
- Panting (even when your dog is not excited or hot)
- Rapid breathing (when your dog is at rest, or even sleeping)
- Weak muscles, which may make your dog unable to go for long walks, or cause problems jumping or climbing stairs
- Sleeping much more than normal (may include restless sleep)
- Loss of fur or thinning fur (including hair loss on a dog’s tail)
- Changes in skin pigmentation (especially the presence of new black pigment in the skin)
- Skin infections (i.e. pyoderma in dogs) that take a long time to heal, or don’t heal even with appropriate medications
- Smelly oily skin or wounds that ooze and seem tender to the touch
- Constant licking or chewing on the skin and itchy dog paws
- GI distress (diarrhea and/or vomiting)
- Sudden weakness or being a severely lethargic dog
- Confusion or disorientation (can look similar to the signs of dementia in dogs)
- Periods of time when your dog seems unresponsive, or can’t easily be woken up
- Collapse
What do you do if you see these signs?
If your dog is showing some of the symptoms on this list, it would be a good idea to schedule an appointment with your regular veterinarian. He or she may be able to adjust your dog’s medications. Or the vet may suggest adding another medication to help reduce the common symptoms of Cushing’s.
(Please note, sometimes the progression of symptoms is rapid, or your dog starts experiencing more severe symptoms like sudden weakness or collapse. In those situations, you may need to make an emergency vet visit rather than a regular appointment.)
Should I keep treating my dog’s Cushing’s disease and associated problems?
However, just because you can try a treatment, doesn’t always mean you should. Yes, the goal of treating a dog with Cushing’s disease is to control the cortisol levels and manage the dog’s symptoms. But it is also to find ways to minimize the overall decrease in your dog’s quality of life.
Some dogs take pills well. And they allow their family to bathe them and apply ointments to their skin to manage the skin problems that often accompany Cushing’s disease. For these sweet pups, the things you need to do to treat Cushing’s disease do not decrease their quality of life at all. And providing care may not be stressful for their human family.
On the other hand, some dogs have severe anxiety when it is bath time. A normally sweet pup may even try to bite when their skin is inflamed and painful due to their disease. Or they may have an extremely difficult time taking medications (even after trying Dr. Buzby’s tips for dogs who won’t take pills). This can mean that giving pills quickly becomes everyone’s least favorite part of the day. Alternatively, even if your dog takes pills well, some medications have unpleasant side effects that may decrease quality of life.
For these precious dogs, you need to look at the whole picture. There may come a time when decreasing their treatments is the best choice, even though their symptoms are worsening.
Deciding that enough is enough
In those cases where a dog no longer tolerates treatments, when the monetary commitment becomes too burdensome, or when caregiver fatigue is severe, it is time to consider euthanasia as the kindest option. There is no shame in admitting that your dog’s medical needs have become burdensome. We all wish we had an unlimited budget of money and time to devote to our pets. However, that is not often the case. And that is ok.
It is important to preserve the human-animal bond above all else. And a big part of preserving that bond is focusing more on the quality of your dog’s life than on the number of days.
Assessing the quality of life for dogs with Cushing’s disease
While it is a critical part of decision-making, evaluating the quality of life is not an easy “one-step” process. However, there are several quality of life scales for dogs that can be helpful when filled out on a regular basis. Plus, you may want to consider the answers to these Cushing’s disease-focused quality of life questions:
- Is eating taking over your dog’s day? Has food become an obsession? Does he seem satisfied, or is he always hungry (even after just finishing a meal)?
- Is she drinking so much that she is having accidents in the house? Is she urinating in her bed?
- Is she able to keep herself clean, or does she allow you to clean her when needed?
- Is he able to enjoy his favorite things? Does he still hate the things he’s always hated (like the vacuum)?
- Is she able to sleep well at night, and does she seem awake during the day?
- Is his skin comfortable? Does he seem to lick and chew at himself every waking moment?
- If he needs medicated baths or topical medications, is he comfortable while these treatments are given?
If your dog’s appetite, hydration, hygiene, skin health, and sleep are all affected, the quality of life has dramatically decreased due to Cushing’s disease. At that point (or even before) it may be time to consider euthanasia as the kindest decision.
When is the “best time” to euthanize your dog with Cushing’s disease?
Most of the time, there is not one right day to put a dog down with Cushing’s. Instead, there tends to be a window of time where euthanasia is a kind and appropriate choice. As Cushing’s disease progresses, there will come a time when watching your dog continue to struggle is even harder than letting him or her go.
A dog whose skin always hurts, who is always hungry and thirsty, and who is restless and exhausted, is not a happy dog with a good quality of life. And neither is a dog who hates taking pills or being bathed. In these cases, setting him or her free from his or her struggles often becomes the most merciful choice.
The decision window
Some families are comfortable making the decision a little bit earlier in the course of the disease. Their dog may really hate vet visits and medications, so they take a more conservative approach to treatment. Choosing euthanasia early means they may miss a bit of quality time together. But it allows them to know they have helped their beloved dog avoid all suffering.
For other families, they need to wait longer, exhausting all options for treating and managing the disease. They know that their sweet pup may suffer for a short time. But to them, a few difficult days are worth it to ensure they were able to spend as many good days together as possible.
Neither decision is “right” or “wrong”—and the same family could make a different decision with two different dogs, even if they have the same disease. Each dog’s personality and ability to handle the struggles that come with Cushing’s disease is unique. That means there really is no “one-size-fits-all” answer.
Use your resources but also trust your instincts
When trying to make this difficult decision of when to euthanize your dog with Cushing’s disease, it can be helpful to seek the opinions of others. You may wish to consult with your dog’s regular veterinarian or a veterinarian who provides dog hospice care. Or you may want to ask trusted friends and family members for help.
All of these people can give you valuable advice as you weigh the severity of your dog’s illness. But it is important to remember that you know your pup better than anyone else. You are the one that spends every day with him or her. And you are the one who sees the true extent of his or her struggles.
If he or she seems brighter and happier when friends and family visit, or more alert and aware when you go to the vet’s office, other people may tell you he or she has more time. However, you are the one who sees your dog day in and day out. If you see the majority of his or her time is spent merely existing, instead of truly living, then it is no doubt a kind choice to set him or her free.
Give yourself grace and compassion. These decisions are never easy—but if you are trying your best to care for your pup and make a kind and reasonable decision, that is the best anyone could ask you to do.
How did you know when it was time to euthanize your dog with Cushing’s disease?
Please comment below.
My dog Monty (Brussels Griffon/Pug mix, now nearly 13 years old)was diagnosed with diabetes about 15 months ago and shortly thereafter, diagnosed with Cushings and most recently irritable bowel. His pot belly has shrunk on the vetoryl, though the dose that worked for him was much smaller than the typically recommended dose, he only gets one capsule twice a week rather than 2 a day! (he stopped eating completely on two a day!) He is on mirtazapine to increase his appetite because he is an insanely picky eater, despite the Cushings! He also takes Tylosin with each meal for the Irritable bowel. Long story short, he has infrequent trembling in his front legs, is still playing, going on walks and engaged with the world around him. And still stealing our belongings so that we have to buy them back for his favorite treat. Manging all of this has been a serious challenge and frustrating. It takes two people to give him his insulin shots, and he still screams about it. Fotunately dog “dad” is retired MD so shots are not a bit deal for him to give while I hold the dude like he is in a vice. Shots are always followed by a favored treat. So far so good. Thank you for all of your information about Cushings, it helped me realize he is doing pretty well!
Hi Kathy,
I am sorry Monty is dealing with so many issues at once. What a blessing he is maintaining so well, and you have figured out a routine that works for his treatments. Praying for continued success and wishing you all the best of luck!
My dog Chuck is 16, a Queensland Blue Heeler. He has had symptoms the last 6 months and only now we are realizing it could be Cushings. He will have a test in 3 weeks. Currently we added Prana and Lignins until the test and results. His symptoms are mostly manageable, some days lots of panting, he tolerates most pills and eats, still goes on walks, no skin issues. This last week he started having GI issues but they are not regular. Chuck also has Kidney disease and we are now giving him a saline drip daily, as long as we are regular with this he seems to not have as many accidents inside. I don’t think it’s time yet but I’m preparing the family as I know it’s a gift he’s been with us this long so far. Good luck to all those out there working through this illness.
Dear Lisa,
I am sorry Chuck is dealing with so many issues at once. I am glad you are planning to have him tested for Cushing’s and hope the treatment will offer him more quality time. Thank you for being willing to share his story with us. Wishing you both comfort and peace.
Hello,
My sweet Piper girl was just diagnosed today with Cushings. Upon reading so many comments, she seems to be so young for this diagnosis – she is 6.5 years. It feels unfair that she is still so young, and when she should be in the prime of her life. Is there encouragement or experiences of many good years to come with her? We’re starting on meds tonight and I pray for her to respond well. This is all such a shock to me, it seems like 2 weeks ago she was our happy normal girl. She still wants to play and to be with us, but I’ve never had a dog that had a degenerative disease as a diagnosis and it’s hard. We love all of our dogs so much.
Dear Heather,
I am sorry Piper has received this difficult diagnosis. I understand your concern and worry for what this will mean for her future. I am hopeful you will start to see improvement with the medication. Praying for peace for your heart and wishing you both many happy years ahead. ♥
Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications
so doery to hear that your baby doggie got cushings so early. our baby is a senior dog,13 yrs, diagnosed 6 Mos ago with cushings. excessive thirst and urination. started on vetoryl. worked initially but now not working, even with higher dosage. otherwise he is playful and happy, I would urge you to try the medicine and keep hopeful and enjoy being with her
Dear Rita,
I am sorry your senior pup is no longer responding as well to the medication. What a blessing he is still happy and playful. Thank you for offering support sympathy to others. Wishing you and your sweet boy all the best. ♥
My 13 year old Cocker Spaniel Poppy was diagnosed 2.5 years ago with Cushings. It took nearly 12 months prior to this to reach a formal diagnosis. In the early days she showed much improvement on Vetoryl, and he symptoms seemed well managed, but just lately, she seems to be deteriorating. She’s dropped 3kg of muscle mass and despite her pot belly, feels boney. She struggles to get up and her back legs tremble when she walks. She struggles to sit for long and laying down seems to be the most comfortable option. Her teeth are in a terrible state since diagnosis, and her back molers have been ground down to the nerve. She is covered is stinky oozing / bloody skin tags, and has a reoccurring large abbess on her foot that weeps. The vet thinks she has arthritis, but I think her constant limp is from the muscle weakness, the sores all of her body, some of which her on her paws. She has a collapsed trachea so coughs occasionally. She only has one eye now, due to a damaged retina from years of puppy farm abuse. She pants and paces, constantly looking for food. Her appetite is veracious and she’ll snap to get it before my other dogs – more out of desperation, because she is actually a very gentle docile girl. She can’t go out for walks now, as stumbles or falls over. She can’t jump or climb stairs any longer without falling down them and face planting. She spends a lots of her day sleeping, and we have to give her melatonin at night to help her stay calm, stop pacing and sleep. Some days she looks exhausted. I think I know it’s time, but I’m riddled with guilt, especially on the days when she rolls in the grass in the sun, and seems to be enjoying life a little. My vet thinks that while she’s still eating, she’s fine, but I know it’s the Cushings and raised cortisol that is driving that constant hunger. Her appetite was always good but not this veracious. I would rather her pass at home in the safety of our loving home were she feels secure that during a panicked visit to the vet.
Dear Samantha,
I am sorry Poppy’s health is declining, and she is struggling with so many issues at once. I definitely don’t think that a willingness to eat equals a good quality of life. From what you describe, her good times are few and far between, but the majority of her day is filled with pain and anxiety. It is ok to let go before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is suffering. I hope you can find the advice you need to make the best choice for everyone involved. Bless you and your sweet girl.
My chihuahua just got diagnosed with cushions. She’s a 12 year old mix. With a big round pot belly, seizures, & a heart murmur. I’m questioning everything. The expense of getting her checked and rechecked and checked again is draining me. And although I would give any amount to anyone who can help. I’m afraid of not being able to provide her with the medication and constant visits she needs. We got her as a pup from my sister whose chihuahua got pregnant, she has always been healthy never any problems. Until now. I wanted to get insurance for her when she was about 9 but I got denied time and time again because she was getting old. Now everything is out of pocket, and we don’t have a vet that we visit that’s affordable. I’m afraid of keeping her for selfish reasons, when I can put her down and she will be free of pain discomfort. But she’s still so spunky the dr we spoke with gave us medication for the seizures, and I want to exhaust all avenues. My finances aren’t going to be able to do. My eldest kid is suffering because it’s her baby. They have a bond. And they are willing to help out with expenses but how can I burden my child with that? I don’t know what to do. I’m scared. I have to work. I can’t stay home and care for her like I wish I could. Neither can my husband or my kids. I’m afraid. I’m heartbroken. I don’t know what to do.
Dear Kay,
My heart aches for you as you face this impossibly difficult situation with your senior pup. I can only imagine how stressed you must be especially when finances are limiting the options. Maybe you can reach out to your local humane society or a rescue group to see if they can offer any help. Care credit might be a possibility, and some vet clinics accept it as a form of payment. I am not sure what other advice to offer other than to say you are not in this alone. Praying for clarity and strength as you navigate this tough path. Bless you and your family. ♥
Hello
My dog is an 11 year old old mutt. She was diagnosed with cushings in Dec of 2024. She is on trilostane 20mg morning and night. She seems hungry still but the water drinking has gotten better. She seems to get anxiety to the point of panting with any small noise. She also whines most of the day. She has always been a bit whiney but now it is much more. They say her levels are normal with the meds but I just wonder if she is in pain or feels bad the way she whines so much. Is the anxiety normal with cushings? She also takes trazadone daily for anxiety 😟 as she has Ben an anxious dog most of her life but seems much worse. Not sure if it’s time or not. 😢
Hi Mindi,
I am sorry your senior girl is struggling with the effects of Cushing’s disease. I am not sure that the textbooks mention anxiety as a symptom, but I will say that a lot of our readers describe it as an issue. Dementia is also very common in senior dog’s and anxiety can be associated with it. I understand your concern and think it is wise you are paying attention to your dog’s quality of life. It might be a good idea to discuss this with your vet and have them do a quality-of-life assessment. They can let you know if your girl is suffering and give you their honest opinion about her situation. Hoping you can get the answers you need to find a clear path forward. Bless you and your sweet girl.
my superhero amstaff x corgi named bear has been living with cushings for nearly 2 years and is now 13 and a half years old. I have had him since he was only 6 months old and we have a very deep bond with eachother. he came into my life when I was 19 and dealing with anxiety and depression and he helped turn my life around. I grew into an adult with him by my side and we have never spent more than 2 weeks apart. I feel like we understand eachother inside and out but lately I am having trouble assessing his quality of life. it appears that the progression of cushings has started to ramp up as he is starting to show alot more symptoms but I’m unsure of how uncomfortable he really feels. when he was diagnosed through blood tests and scans he was only showing very minor symptoms and was still the loud, vocal and energetic dog he usually was. but I couldn’t afford to give him medical treatment, which upset me alot as my worst fear with my boy is that money would get in the way of his health and well-being. so I began to ride on the hope that we might of discovered his condition early enough that re adjusting his lifestyle and diet accordingly could slow the progression of his cushings. turns out that perfect balance of diet and exercise was key to his well-being. I stuck to a set routine of taking him for walks rather than waiting for him to ask me and we would walk for exactly an hour every evening just after the sun dissapears so the air is cooler and the ground not as hot. I changed his diet from the standard dog food you get at your local pet store, to fresh boiled chicken and grain free biscuits for seniors with fish and chicken jerky for the occasional snack and to add a bit more flavour in his diet as pretty much anything else he used to enjoy eating would give him diarrhoea and on the rare occasion he would vomit several times a night. he did fantastic for nearly 2 years and we would oftenly forget that he is sick at all. but he is a very stoic and stubborn dog by nature that no obstacle is too big for him and you have to pay very close attention to him when you think something may be off with him… well as of the last few weeks he has very suddenly developed a whole bunch of new symptoms almost simultaneously. constant panting, huge increase in hunger although he still does usually listen if you tell him no to food but he we will try you for it again atleast once a hour throughout the day where as usually he is patient and knows his routine so well that he barks at me right on the clock for his meals, some days he drinks his entire bowl of water before miday and other days he still drinks as much as he usually does. he looks like he feels lethargic and exhausted and will often trip on his own feet and walk really slow and look around and wander back and forward like he isnt sure where he is or where he wants to go, he also will let himself plonk really heavily on to the floor, he sleeps alot more but at the same time while he has those symptoms he will still get small bursts of energy and get excited when he sees people laughing in the house and doing activities which he never wants to be excluded from. he has to know where everyone is in the house and what they are doing so he can be apart of everything and that hasn’t changed as the cushings has progressed. he does get tired really quick when I walk now. even though he barks and gets super excited when he knows its his walk time and drags me out of the door before I can manage to lock it behind me, he will end up dragging his feet and even refuse to walk any further unless we are heading in the direction of home even which is usually about 15 minutes and after we have visited all his favourite sniffing and pee locations at the park. he also has random changes in his breathing pattern and he will hiccup or his snoring will sound completely (the vet said that she can hear a very prominent crackling noise in his chest when he breathes). basicly I’m stuck with trying to figure out what is the right choice to make because on one hand he has rapidly developed new symptoms after nearly 2 years of barely showing symptoms at all most days. he doesn’t listen to me as much and disobeys straightforward commands that he has understood since a puppy. he has grown more attached to my mother who has been staying in the house for the past 8 months and spends more time following her. but on the other hand it’s like he flips the switch and behaves exactly like he always has… I have no idea if anyone will ever read this or lend me any insight in time or even at all but I wrote this all out anyway and im going to post to try and come to terms with the fact that I have to start mentally preparing myself for the inevitable end of the life of my most closest and beloved friend and despite all that he as taught me in life I will now have to carry on with what I learned without him
Dear Aidan,
My heart aches for you as you face this difficult situation with Bear. It is clear he is dearly loved, and I am certain he knows how much you care about him. Some of the new symptoms you mentioned do sound like a progression of Cushing’s disease, but others may be early signs of dementia/canine cognitive dysfunction. I understand how confusing it can be when trying to assess quality of life and a good day or days come along. I will attach links to other articles that offer more information and guidance about when to say goodbye. Wishing you strength and comfort for the emotional days ahead. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
I just read your post and I am in exactly the same position with my 14yr old dog who has been so strong throughout his disease. I don’t think he is ready to leave me but I know it’s not long. I hope I can work out the exact right time to not have him suffer too much- I hope you do too.
Dear Lea,
My heart aches for you as you face this emotional decision for your senior boy. Wishing you both comfort and peace. Bless you. ♥
Hello, my 10 year old basset hound Lalli has just been diagnosed with Cushings. We noticed some changes to her behavior in the last 6 months but didn’t put two and two together until we were travelling, and she peed in front of the elevator. She has travelled with us for years and always made it outside until this instance. From there it was her drinking a lot and of course needing to go out to pee, then the ravenous eating and now the pot belly. She gets up at night and looks for water, or she just scratches at the door to go out to pee then wants water. It’s taking its toll on us and her of course but we are going to do what is best to give her a good quality of life as we monitor her progress with meds. Thank you for all your comments and advice, it certainly helps us for the day we have to make the right decision for her quality of life as the symptoms of Cushings progresses.
Dear Richard,
I am sorry Lalli is living with the symptoms of this difficult disease. She is lucky to have you taking such good care of her and monitoring her comfort and quality of life. Thank you for sharing her story with us. Wishing you strength and clarity as you navigate this unknown path.
Hi, I have a 13 year old Portuguese water dog who was diagnosed with Cushing disease about 4 months ago and he is drinking excessively, always needing to pee and peeing in the house almost every day, he is weak in the mornings and night especially and cannot walk up the stairs, he is constantly hungry and always seems to be barking and wanting something, but I don’t know what he wants. He is still very energetic, wagging his tail, and running around, that is why I am so confused on what to do with him. I have no idea if it’s time yet because I feel so bad for him and love him so much, but it really does have a draining effect on the family. It’s just so hard because I expected him to be slow and act like an old dog, which would tell me it’s time, but he’s still running around, so what should I do?
Hi Amina,
I am sorry your senior boy is experiencing these severe symptoms. From what you describe, it sounds like his Cushing’s is uncontrolled. Is your pup taking any medications for Cushing’s? If not, there is treatment for this disease. While it isn’t effective for every pup, it does offer reduced severity of symptoms for most and can even completely resolve issues for some dogs for a period of time. Here are links to other articles with more information:
1. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications
2. Trilostane for Dogs With Cushing’s Disease
I am not sure if your pup’s quality of life has declined to the point where you should be considering euthanasia. It is hard to make recommendations without being able to personally examine him. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your vet. They can let you know if saying goodbye would be best or if there are other treatment options to explore. Hoping you can get the answers you need and wishing you all the best.
Our 12 year old female German Shepherd was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease February 2024. We’ve had trouble finding her correct dosage of Trilostane. In March 2024, she started on 30 mg once a day weighing 33.2 kg. Today, she is currently down to a very low dose of 10 mg once per day with a weight of 23.9 kg.
On her most recent ACTH Stimulation test on 1/13/25, her baseline cortisol sample was low (0.3 mcg/dL) but her vet stated it has been persistently low since we first started treatment without signs of cortisol deficiency, despite being on a much higher dose. We elected to continue on the 10 mg daily as we were not seeing any signs of deficiency and her post cortisol sample was in a good range of 3.9 mcg/dL.
Since then, she has had what we believe to be a neurological episode where her whole body was shaking in time with her breathing for about 3 minutes before it passed. She has had diarrhea for the past 5 days and today it has turned into complete liquid consistency. She sleeps a lot during the day and her back legs will sometimes slide out on our tile floors, but other than that she is still perky and playful. She is also on 150 mg of Amantadine twice daily to help with shakiness in her back legs.
We have an appointment tomorrow, but I am struggling with knowing if these are signs we are getting to the end of our time with her. Any insight is appreciated.
Dear Stephanie,
I understand your concern for your Shepherd and am sorry she is experiencing these worrisome symptoms. It is hard to say for sure if these episodes are due to progression of the Cushing’s or if there is something else contributing. I am glad you had a visit planned with your vet. What did they have to say? Hoping for definitive answers and a clear path forward. Bless you and your sweet girl.
My miniature dachsund is 15 years old and recently diagnosed with cushings. She was drinking tons of water and urinating everywhere; my bed, the couch, her bed and getting up several times in the night to go out. Her appetite also became insatiable; she’s always liked to eat but now sometimes she shakes wanting some of what we’re eating. The vet put her on 5mg of Vetoryl and it seemed to help a little. But we just upped it to 10mg and she seems to be worse than ever. I am doing a couple loads of laundry every day, washing her bed, towels, my bedding. I no longer let her on the couch. And I’m exhausted as she is still getting up 2-3 times a night to go out. However, she’s always perky and energized, always wagging her tail and seems happy, she does the zoomies outside and around the house. I am very frustrated and at my wits end but love her to death. If I thought she was suffering it would different. Is she suffering? I just can’t tell. Any advice would be so appreciated.
Dear Cristy,
I understand your concern and frustration with this situation. Caregiver fatigue is real and can be a heavy burden to bear. From what you describe, it doesn’t sound like your girl is suffering but it is clear her health is starting to decline. Without examining her myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions about her quality of life. You can ask your vet to give their honest opinion about her condition to allow you to make these tough decisions. Ultimately, you know your girl better than anyone, so I encourage you to trust your intuition. Praying for strength and clarity. Bless you and your senior pup.
When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
Hi Julie,
My 13.5 y/o mixed breed dog (Darwin) is exhibiting many of the signs of Cushings. She had an ultrasound, endoscopy and biopsy ( small stomach nodules – benign) last year due to excessive drinking. Nothing was found and the excessive drinking seemed to dissipate over a week or two. She was put on a hydrolysed protein diet which may/ may not have contributed to the recovery BUT her skin condition deteriorated quickly with lots of hair loss. I put her back on her normal diet which included fish oils, veggies, various meats and Now Senior dog biscuits. Her skin recovered and Polydipsia did not return. It has now ( almost a year later). She also pants a lot and recently began indulging in coprophagia. A note here that I also have a 20 month old cross (Timmy) who has attempted to eat Darwin’s poop since I adopted him and I do wonder if this could be mimicry. Darwin started eating garden mulch soon after he arrived doing the same. Full bloods and exam this week show nothing untoward but her urine cortisol level is elevated. She has a low level heart murmur. The vet has now suggested an ACTH stimulation test plus another ultrasound. The quote for medication alone is NZ$500/month (Vetoryl). I’m wondering if the meds will make much difference esp considering the potential side effects, her age and the fact that she otherwise seems OK for now. Is it worth looking into dietry / naturopathic supplement /remedy/ assistance rather than aforementioned conventional options?
Hi Monique,
I am sorry Darwin is facing these unknown issues and has been through so much over the past year. I applaud you for all you have done to help her and think you are doing a great job! The main goal of treating with Vetoryl is to minimize symptoms. So, if your girl’s symptoms are very mild, it may be best to hold off on treatment for now. I do think alternative therapies could offer the benefits you are seeking. Do you have a vet in your area that practices integrative or Traditional Chinese Medicine? Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for your sweet girl. Praying for healing for Darwin and for your strength as you navigate this difficult path.
Hi, I am hoping to get some advice for our 12 year old dachshund, Vienna. Vienna was diagnosed with cushings about two years ago but we suspect she’s had it longer than that. Vienna is spicy but also incredibly loyal and loving. She has the quintessential dachshund personality. Lately, it seems she has started showing many of the “advanced” symptoms of cushings such as, lots of restless sleeping, frequent accidents, increased hunger and thirst, licking her paws constantly, and a little unstable on her feet. But none them seem as extreme as some of these other posts I have read through. Our only goal is to make sure she is happy and living a quality life. When I share some of her symptoms with other people they are quick to point out that some of these things come with old age. We have had to put animals down in the past but their decline was swift and it was obvious when they were ready. So I am feeling really confused with her because she seems to be alert but with less of her spunk. She will wag her tail and gets excited to see us when we get home and during meals, but the rest of the day her tail is down and sometimes tucked. We have taken her to the vet but they always say she looks good, but her behavior is so all over the place sometimes. I wonder if I am making the right decision keeping her with us or if it’s time to let her go. Thanks in advance for any advice.
Hi Kristen,
I understand your concern for Vienna and think it is good you are searching for advice. From what you describe, I am suspicious that some of her new behaviors may be early signs of dementia or canine cognitive dysfunction. I think this is probably what others are referring to when they say she is exhibiting signs of “old age” as dementia is very common in senior and geriatric dogs. While your girl may be nearing the end of her life, I am not sure her quality of life is poor at this point. Of course, it is hard for me to make specific conclusions without personally examining Vienna. I encourage you to trust your intuition as you know her better than anyone. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers as well. You are doing a great job, and it is clear your girl is dearly loved and well cared for. Praying for clarity and strength as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you both.
1. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
2. MCT Oil for Dogs Can Help Dogs with Dementia or Epilepsy
3. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
4. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
My dog Max german shepherd was diagnosed at 7 1/2 years old. with cushings. he also had hypothyroidism prior . After ultrasound and testing he was put on 30mg vectoryl. we had 2 more years left together with treatment. recently he had his gallbladder removed due to cushings complications. It was caught in time with no rupture. He was doing well post op for about 6 days eating,drinking, pooping ,peeing normally. then as if a switch was thrown he lost weight ,hind leg weakness, drinking,peeing a lot.He stopped eating and taking meds..In and out of Vets ER overnights twice for dehydration and pain management. The final night he was pacing in circles restless face planting againt walls and corners and felt hot..I looked at him and knew to pick him up and drive him to the ER Vet Hospital for our final good bye. at 3am 2/24/25 I los
t my best friend. I had him euthanized.. I miss him with all m.y heart and soul.
Dear Paul,
My heart aches for you with your recent loss of Max. It is clear you did everything you could to give him more time and I am certain he knew how much you loved him. I pray for healing and peace for your heart as you continue life’s journey. May Max’s memory stay with you always.
my dog is a 15 month old mixed breed with pemphigus (autoimmune disease) and has been on steroids for a little over a year now. he recently got diagnosed with cushings disease likely brought on by continued steroid use. his back legs were both sprained back in October due to loss of muscle mass and looking back cushings could have been playing a role back then. he now has a bladder infection that we are trying to treat. we wanted to euthenize him on his pemphigus alone because it was a lot to handle, and the vet talked us out of it. a lot more has happened since then hence the sprained legs and infections. i just feel like because he is young they are not wanting to consider euthanasia. but I’m tired and his quality of life has never been what I would consider normal for a dog his age. it has been a wild ride and honestly we have spent so much time and money, oh the money we have spent on something that is never going away. I just wish vets would listen to us more and not just think that we are taking the easy way out. it has been the most difficult journey I have ever had with a dog. we love our boy and would love to overcome this, but it’s bigger than any of us anticipated. I mean he’s only 15 months old and has multiple incurable diagnoses.
Dear Mystee,
My heart aches for you with this tragic situation you are enduring with your young pup. I understand your frustration and concern. I can only imagine what a burden this is for you and your family. I know you want to do what is best for your boy and your quality of life matters too. It may be best to contact a vet that offers hospice and in home euthanasia services. They can give you the support and help you need to give your sweet boy a peaceful goodbye. Praying for your strength and comfort as you walk this difficult path. Bless you and your pup. ♥
When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
Our 14 year old miniature dachshund past away at our home on this past Friday. She was diagnosed with cushings in February of 2023. We were lucky to catch it early and the medication was life changing for her. For anyone that knows, dachushunds have an intense hunger where they never seem satisfied as well as trouble with house breaking. The initial symptoms may just seem normal, but if you have a hunch take your pet to see a vet and do some bloodwork.
She was the world to our family and we are so saddened with her loss.
Luci’s death for us came out of nowhere. She was panting and coughing when we returned from work last Wednesday. We immediately took her to the vet who diagnosed her with CHF, which is a result of cushings. He said she had an enlarged heart but felt optimistic that the medicine could make a difference. She was put on medication and was to be monitored by us for the next 48 hours with a return visit booked for Friday at 8 am. At first she did great, she ate all of her food Thursday morning and was with our kids. By the evening she seemed tired and didn’t want to eat and I had to force her to take the meds. By Friday morning, she was a different dog completely, I woke up early made her breakfast with two eggs hoping she would eat, but had no interest. She started panting heavy and I had to get her to the vet for our 8 am appointment. I placed her in her favorite bed, which she had many being our Queen! I then went into the other room to get ready for the vet appointment and within a 5 minute span she passed away. I was able to hold her for her last breaths and it was heartbreaking. I have now come to the realization that we did everything for her. With her passing at our home, it was the lowest stress environment. My biggest concern was that I did not want her to suffer. I listened to our vet, who is great but in no circumstance did we think that she would pass in the 36 hours from his visit. I spoke to him after she passed, and he felt it most likely was a sudden death such as a blood clot. In our case, we did everything possible to give Luci the best life. Our first dog Bruno passed away from CHF, and his symptoms were much different and severe than Luci’s. In his case we had to put him down at the vet. All I can say is give your pets all the love you can.
Dear Gabriel,
I am so sorry for your loss of Luci. What a blessing you were able to be there for her in her final moments. I am certain she knew how much she was loved and that your presence was a comfort. You absolutely did everything you could to keep her happy and give her as much time as possible. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us. May Luci’s memory live on and I wish you brighter days ahead.
Jack was unable to walk his last 2 years but I was able to accommodate him with a carrying sling and other modifications so that he could get around as best he could. I knew it was time when he was panting more than usual and his breathing at rest (not just sleep) was noisy. If he was relaxing, he sounded like he was snoring. One evening he looked at me and I swear he was telling me that it was time and that he’s had enough. I balled my eyes out because I knew it too. The next day, he seemed his usual self again, I guess his “rally day”, that night we even played with a new toy. Throughout the night the snoring sound returned and he just looked uncomfortable. I prayed he would just pass so I didn’t have to make the decision. After talking with the vet and although he was eating and playing, I knew this was as good as he was going to feel which didn’t seem great. If he was only going to continue downhill and suffer more and more, I wanted to end it before he had to experience anything worse. I didn’t want to watch him get to the point where he didn’t acknowledge me when I came home, didn’t get excited abt food, and waste away.
Dear Jessica,
I am sorry for your loss of Jack. I can only imagine how much you miss him but feel certain he knew how much he was loved. I am glad you were able to offer him a peaceful passing and spare him from unnecessary suffering. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us. May his memory stay with you always and continue to be a blessing in your life. ♥
Hi I’m really struggling right now my beloved best friend was a 13year old cross that I’ve had since birth is now over the rainbow bridge .I hate myself for putting him to sleep .I’m struggling with my decision I wish I had longer with him and didn’t make such a rash decision at the vets I was so overwhelmed and wanted what was best for him .He had cushions disease he was rapidly declining and couldn’t get down the stairs anymore he had been drinking excessively for 2 years and flooding inside with pee .I couldn’t bare seeing him in pain .He got glocoma in his eyes with very bad pressure build up 2 days before I took him in .He was struggling to see out that side and was flinching with pain when petting his head .His fur had falling out and had sores on his back with inflamed pot belly .He had a huge appetite but he loved me and I loved him .We made each other very happy ..I can’t help but think I could have done more for him .I hate the fact I gave up on him .He would never do that to me .How do you cope with the loss and anger with ourselves for letting our beloved go .I feel like maybe it was more my stress of having a newborn and struggling to carry him up and down stairs as he was 27kg with my c section recovery that also led my decision but now I am wracked with grief guilt and anger .I wish I did more .
Dear Nicky,
My heart aches for you with the loss of your beloved boy. I understand the emotional turmoil this can cause and that your brain will ponder all the “what ifs”. Please don’t let guilt weigh heavily on you. You didn’t give up on your boy. You made a loving sacrifice to allow your own heart to break so that your pup could finally be at peace and have freedom from his suffering. I think he would have made the same choice for you. ♥ I hope with time the grief will fade and you can take comfort in knowing he was well loved. May the memories of all the good times you shared stay with you always and continue to be a blessing in your life.
My 10 year old dog was just diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, she has all the symptoms of it. She struggles. She also has a severe case of arthritis. And I was thinking about putting her to sleep before the disease gets too bad, but why do I feel guilty for thinking about it? She eats so much, almost like her whole day is based on eating, she has the pot belly look, she is lethargic and she has fallen , hind legs have given out 4 times. I love her to death. I struggle with is it too early or too late.
Dear Patricia,
I am so sorry your senior girl has received this difficult diagnosis. It is true that Cushing’s can get severe and sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option. If you haven’t tried treatment yet, it may be worth a try. Some dogs see great improvement after starting treatment and end up gaining some extra quality time. With that being said, it is ok to let go before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is pain. I would rather say goodbye one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. Don’t hesitate to ask your vet for their expert opinion. They can help offer guidance and support as you navigate this emotional path. Hoping you can find the advice you need to make the best choice for you and your sweet girl. Bless you both. ♥
Thank You!. 2 months after my first message, my senior girl is not as hungry, not as thirsty, Not on medication. But the other symptoms are the same and some worse. Is it true that euthanizing a loved pet is based on quality of life? It is a hard decision on deciding when to euthanize. I guess what I am asking is even though she still can walk with some trouble with the hind legs. And still eats and drinks and goes outside to do her business. How do I know when the right time is, when she can still do things. She follows me from room to room, I don’t know if that is because this disease is the more clingy part of it. I am so confused on which way to go. Gosh, why is this so hard.
Dear Patricia,
I am glad the severity of your girl’s symptoms seems to have decreased a bit since your first message. Yes, I always use the dog’s quality of life to determine when to say goodbye. It is ok to let go before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is pain. I would rather say goodbye one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers as well. Praying for a clear path forward and for comfort for your heart. Bless you and your sweet girl.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Our miniature dachshund Max was put to sleep a few days ago. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. His Cushings’ had become hard to manage even though he was on medication. Lots of accidents and had severe separation anxiety. Also having to get up during the night because he was thirsty and then had to go pee. We were having caregiver fatigue but now I miss him so much and feel guilty for letting him go. I know there is never a right time but never imagined it would be this difficult. Thanks for listening.
Dear Cindy,
My heart goes out to you with your recent loss of Max. You made a loving sacrifice to allow your own heart to break so that your sweet boy could find freedom from his suffering. I hope with time the grief will fade and your heart can begin to heal. May his memory stay with you always and be a blessing in your life. ♥
oh my gosh, I am going through the same thing. He is on 70 mg of vetoryl and thyroid medicine. I am going to have another test for kidneys. He cannot hold his pee over 4 hours. His anxiety was soo bad when I when I was away for a day. I am retired and would like to do things with my grandkids, but I cannot leave him. I have tried doggy diapers and extra pads. but they are so full in only a short time. Luckily I can cage him in the kitchen, but I still cannot go away for a long time. I know what I want to do, but feel very guilty.
Dear Deborah,
I am sorry things are difficult with your senior guy. I know you don’t want to say goodbye out of convenience, but that is definitely not how I see your situation. If your boy is struggling with multiple different conditions, urinary issues and anxiety daily, then letting go may be the only way to offer him freedom and peace. Please also remember that your quality of life matters too. I pray for your strength as you continue to navigate this emotional path. Bless you and your sweet boy.
When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
I had a 12 year old Miniature Pinscher , my Harley, who had a spinal issue that greatly reduced his mobility. After the first injury it took five months of home therapy for him to walk again on his own. Things were good, then it reaccured. This continued for about three years. The changes I saw in him during these time included his inability to move from laying on his side to the usual laying on their belly position. If you helped him stand, he would collapse when you let go. He was unable to move if he needed to deficate. I worked and would come at lunch to address his needs, but that’s not the same thing.
The last night we spent together was heart wrenching.. The vet had put him on a dog version of asprin. The dose was too high causing a bleediing ulcer, so no more pain killers. He again could not move from laying on his side.. He was crying in his sleep from pain, and their were no more miracles.
The next day I made arrangrments with his vet for that evening. I had been forced to make a decision that I really hope I never have to make again. I asked myself two questions. 1) If that was me, is this the life I would want to be living? 2) Although both of us were suffering , his pain, emotionally and physical was much worse than mine. So, was I keeping him in pain, because I couldn’t let go? In the end I decided it was better that my pain increased, but he found peace. I remember driving home with all the emotions and doubts in my head. I remember sitting in the car and crying uncontrolably. I remember shouting out, “I just killed my best friend.”
It’s been four and a half years and I still cry and sometimes doubt my decision. I do the “what if’s” and “if only’s” in my head. Then I have to remember what I’ve always told my kids when those doubts pop up. I didn’t live the lives of “what if'” or “if only” I have no clue how those lives would have turned out. People like to assume that this other option would have been the miracle cure. However, there’s no way to know that. You only know about the life you actually lived..
The best we can do is love them unconditionally and give them peace when their suffering becomes worse than the pain we’ll feel from letting them go. I wish you and your pup peace.
P.S. I swore I would never get another dog. However, it’s as if my Harley wouldn’t leave until there was another four legged caretaker to watch over me. Several months later I learned of an eleven year old Min Pin looking for a home. He’s three times taller than the average Min Pin and some days I think he only has five working brain cells. He’s a love and I will cry again when it’s time for him to leave, but the experience of having him as part of my life will be worth every tear..
Dear Elissa,
Thank you for being willing to share Harley’s story with us. It is obvious he was a big part of your life and was dearly loved. What a blessing you were able to offer him a peaceful passing and spare him from unnecessary suffering. I am glad you have your “new” senior pup by your side and his presence has eased the grief in your heart. May Harley’s memory be with you forever. Best wishes to you and yours. ♥
This is exactly what I am struggling with right now and I cannot thank you enough for sharing your story. By sharing your story you have given more life. I don’t know how to check responses on here but please reply to [email protected] kid younhanebamunquestiomw
My 10/11 year old beagle mix is suspected to have Cushings. We’re really struggling with determining his quality of life. He’s always been a lazy (hound dogs amiright?) guy, so I don’t notice a decrease in activity. There are some days he doesn’t want to get up to go outside. There was one day he was hard to wake…not completely unusual for him. He is SO thirsty though. Constantly drinking and eating. He tries to eat anything left out or even his brothers food. His legs shake when he stands, too.
Additionally the vet said he had a neurological issue with one of his nerves in his face and half of his face is very droopy and he has trouble drinking – a lot falls out.
He’s still happy and generally seems the same though so I’m struggling with if it’s too early.
Dear Kaylee,
I am so sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior guy. I understand your concern with all of the issues he is facing. It is hard to offer specific advice without personally examining your pup. I do think it is better to say goodbye one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. Don’t hesitate to ask your vet for a quality-of-life evaluation. They should be able to give you guidance as you navigate this hard path. I also encourage you to trust your intuition as you know your boy better than anyone else. Praying for clarity and comfort and wishing you all the best.
Our dog’s behavior changed about two years ago and was diagnosed with Cushing’s. She used to be sweet and playful, but now literally high pitched yells at us for food. If she is not yelling at us, she is sleeping. She is constantly trying to steal food from our toddler. I’m afraid she’ll bite our toddler while trying to grab food. She still walks twice a day and shows interest in other dogs though.
Her medication doesn’t seem to work for long. We keep increasing the dosage of trilostane.
I’m wondering if anyone put their dog down because of this kind of behavior change. She is a source of so much stress especially with a toddler.
Dear Kat,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your pup. I can only imagine the stress and tension this has brought to your family. Is it possible to use baby gates to keep your girl in a safe space while your toddler is eating? If your pup is experiencing daily anxiety over food and the living environment is not safe, it is ok to consider humane euthanasia. I will attach links to other articles with more information and guidance on how to make such an emotional decision. I encourage you to also read through the comments left by other readers. I think you will find some common ground and realize you are definitely not alone. Wishing you all the best and praying for comfort and peace in your home.
1. When To Euthanize A Dog With Cushing’s Disease: A Vet’s Advice
2. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
3. When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
4. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
Our 12 year old beagle has had Cushings for almost 3 years. On 10 mgs vetoryl twice daily.. her back legs have been wobbly and weak for about a year and a half. Muscle in her hind end is gone. She has been pretty good until recently. She walks daily. Not typically more than a mile. But has been very happy to do it. Loves her treat taxes as she is walking. She taxes us for everything. End of driveway, cars going by, crossing the road. Lots of taxation going on with our girl. lol!! Just happy little girl. Last few weeks we have noticed she seems to be getting little weaker. She has been much more picky about eating her meals. Sometimes I have to try 4 different things before she will eat. She hasn’t felt good for the last couple days. Today she has vomited a couple times. Had runny poops and does not want her favorite treats. She just wants one of the little dog beds that sits on the side of my bed. I am really worried that her time to say goodbye is coming quickly. We had 7 babies. We have lost 2 . With each one another piece of our heart goes with them. Today I am at work and am worried sick about her. She isn’t alone because my husband is there. But just know she feels so bad. Broken hearted furbaby mom.
Dear April,
My heart aches for you as you watch your pup’s health start to decline. It is clear she is dearly loved and a big part of your lives. Try to make the most of the time you are gifted. Praying for comfort for your heart and clarity when tough decisions have to be made. Bless you and your family. ♥
Hello. Hugo my 12.5 year old beagle was diagnosed with Cushing’s 22nd June this year. Two ACHT tests since show his cortisol levels are normal. Having Vetoryl daily. What worries me is his appetite and thirst are increasing. Panting, lethargic and just not himself. Seeing our vet tomorrow for blood pressure check and urine test.
Hi Colette,
I am sorry your pup has received this difficult diagnosis and I understand your concern with the worsening of these symptoms. I am glad you had an appointment already scheduled with your vet. How did things go? Were you able to get any answers? Hoping Hugo is ok and praying for a clear path forward. Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.
Julie thank you. Hugo’s blood pressure normal. Protein in his urine. From today Hugo’s taking Benazepril Hydrochloride to ‘plug the holes in his kidneys’. Wondering if it’s worth having a blood test to assess what stage of kidney disease/failure Hugo has?
Hi Colette,
I am glad Hugo’s blood pressure is normal and that is one less thing you have to worry about. I do think it would be good to pursue more in-depth testing for this kidney issue. Besides blood work, you could also talk to your vet about abdominal ultrasound if they think it would offer additional insight. Here is a link to another article with more information about kidney disease just in case you are interested: Kidney Disease in Dogs: Stages and What They Mean For Your Dog
Hoping you can continue to unravel this mystery and find the best ways to keep Hugo happy and healthy. Feel free to keep us updated on how things are going. Best wishes to you and your sweet boy.
Just sharing this for other cushings caregivers….. my older bichon was diagnosed about 18 months ago and he’s been on Pet Wellbeing and other non pharmaceutical treatments. He’s been doing quite well with that (and big thanks to our integrative vet in Richmond, VA).! Before Cushings, he was not bothered by thunder, but now he is. Last week we had a couple days of thunder storms that had him pacing and panting and disoriented. Unfortunately, he is not bouncing back from that as he has done in the past. I am talking to his vet again tomorrow. It would break my heart if thunderstorms are the thing that take away his quality of life. But you just never know what the precipitating event might be when they become so vulnerable. Sending my support and sympathy to everyone here.
Dear Annie,
My heart goes out to you as you try to navigate this unknown path with your senior girl. Thank you for sharing your experience and offering advice to others. I hope your vet will have some great ideas about how to restore your girl’s well-being. Wishing you all the best and give your sweet pup a hug for me!
Hi Annie
My dog Cooper has Cushings. I am from Richmond (Varina area) and now live near Virginia Beach. Just curious which integrative vet you are seeing since you have seen success with your fur baby. I do not mind traveling to RIC.
Thanks, Wendy
My little toy poodle aged 16 years and 2 months became ill overnight. He already had a heart murmur and had that for about 6 years but he became sick, so suddenly. From one week to the next, he went from walking ahead of my other dog on walks to not walking. He became weary, life had become exhausting for him. After about 2 weeks of the start of this, he became deaf and blind. He had gone from a very slim toy to a pot-belly piggy. He never had an appetite and I mostly had to encourage him to eat but now he ate all his tea and my other dogs too.
Then when I put some more food out for my other dog the poodle ate that too. His skin became blotted with dark marks and I thought it was the sun so I kept him covered as much as I could. We took him to the vets who wanted to euthanise him right away. They did tests for diabetes and cushings but said it wasn’t that. We weren’t ready to part with him as it was a great shock and so he stayed at home for another 5 weeks. It broke my heart when he was walking round the walls not wanting to hurt himself because he was blind. He couldn’t hear and my heart went out to him. He did sleep at night but I would put a large plastic sheet on the floor with newspapers and in the morning it was horrendous cleaning up the mess but I didn’t care but I was absolutely exhausted. I would take him in the garden every 20 minutes to wee then he would come in and I would find him in a corner as he was confused. I would scoop him up and he would sigh and snuggle into me and instantly go to sleep. I was being so selfish, I didn’t want to let him go but I needed him as this little dog followed me everywhere. He would come upstairs in the morning when I was getting ready and sit on my bed watching me put my makeup on and he followed me all around the house. I couldn’t bear his exhaustion and pain any longer so we took him to the vet and they put him to sleep in my arms and the first injection put him gently into a deep sleep and then the second injection sent him to doggy heaven. I couldn’t believe that I had decided to do it but I did it for him. It was like I had to say go ahead to the vet. I was like a robot. I silently cried my eyes out and the vet was so lovely and understanding. My dog’s name was Ziggy and I have his ashes and they will be buried with us. I have had dogs before but this little dog had a special place in my heart. I am now trying to give my other little shih tzu lots of cuddles and to make up for not being there for her when I was looking after Ziggy. The vet put a claim into my insurance company and it said “Cushing’s disease”.
Thank you for the article it has really helped me cope.
Dear Kat,
My heart aches for you with your loss of Ziggy. I can only imagine how much you miss him but am grateful you were able to offer him a peaceful passing and relief from his suffering. I am certain he knew how much you loved him and that your presence in his final moments was a comfort. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us. May Ziggy’s memory stay with you always and continue to be a blessing in your life. ♥
My 13 yr old Springer Spaniel long suspected of having Cushings disease recently died of bile peritonitis associated with ruptured gall bladder . The gall bladder had some stones in it and could not be determined if mucocoel present before rupture. What I would like every vet to know is that even though her clinical signs of Cushings were minimal and only her Alk phos very high on labs, it should be stated to owners that there are fatal risks to not definitively diagnose and treat. In my case a screening abdominal ultrasound would have found an adrenal tumor and likely a distended maybe even mucocoel gall bladder . Years ago I would have gone ahead with surgery to remove adrenal and gall bladder. The discussion about 29x risk of gall bladder mucocoel and potential rupture needs to be discussed with advise to at the very least monitor abdominal ultrasound periodically. Not just Dx and Tx definitely if bothersome symptoms. Full stop.
Dear Lea,
My heart aches for you with the recent loss of your senior girl. I agree, an abdominal ultrasound to look for possible problems is a great idea for all dogs with chronically elevated liver enzymes. I am not sure if treating the Cushing’s would have prevented the gallbladder issues from progressing. It is common for all the “what ifs” to flood your brain, especially while grieving, but please don’t let guilt or anger make this emotional season any harder. You did what you thought was best with the information you had and with the advice of your vet. I am certain your girl lived a wonderful life and was well loved. I hope as time passes your heart can begin to heal. May her memory be with you always. Bless you.
My 8 yr old Chihuahua was just diagnosed with Cushings disease AND stage 1 heart failure. It sounds horrible, right?. BUT my pup acts like a normal 8 yr old pup!, playful, but sleepy, happy, and loves the outdoors. She was jus diagnosed so hasn’t started treatment yet. however they will put her in Vetoryl 5mg. Reading these comments, gives me SO much hope of more years to come. Because there is no prefect time to put a pet down, but especially when they are diagnosed with stuff, but show little to no symptoms. Her symptom of Cushings disease is a pot belly, that’s it. She’s always been a greedy pup when it comes to food so she is on the heavier side for weight. Heart Failure will be monitor has no symptoms have started so vet doesn’t want to treat or isn’t treatment time yet.
Hi Sarah,
I am sorry your girl is facing these worrisome conditions, but what a blessing you were able to catch them early and intervene. I am hopeful that your girl will be able to maintain her quality of life, especially with you taking such good care of her. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Wishing you and your sweet girl all the best and praying for many happy days ahead. ♥
I’m so glad to have found this article. I’ve been struggling a lot with trying to understand Cushing’s disease, and how it might be affecting my dog. I have a 13.5 year-old Chihuahua-Dachshund mix who had both of his eyes removed a year ago (due to trauma and glaucoma). He had already had cataracts for years before that, so he was already mostly blind, but the removal of his eyes changed his balance. We handled some other issues that looked like it might have been liver or pancreas issues. But then the doctor was narrowing things down to Cushing’s. The last month or two has seen increase in thrist and urination, muscle weakness in his back legs (we actually thought that was arthritis first, and it still might be, or it might be both), and a lot more sleeping. (We have not done the tests to confirm Cushings because they are very expensive, and at this stage in his life and the disease progress, it doesn’t seem that the diagnosis or treatment would change much.)
His other things seem normal, he eats normal, poops normal, he just got groomed the other day and the groomer said he was lovely and got very excited after his bath like normal. But I am on a 3-day trip across the country, and my mom is dog-sitting, and she just said he has blood in his urine, and he has vomited. I’m thinking it might be a UTI (he didn’t have one about 4 weeks ago when he was tested last).
I am sending her to the vet, but I am so upset that I can’t be there. I’ve been taking care of him daily, and thinking that the end probably was going to be coming up soon. I never thought he’d make it through the year, maybe not even the summer. But when I left home 24 hours ago, he seemed at least fine, and now I’m devastated thinking I might have to make this decision from 1500 miles away and won’t be there to be with him. And I’m awake in the middle of the night, in a different timezone, with no one to talk to but Google.
This article helped to clarify that even if it’s not RIGHT NOW (I really hope it’s not condemning him to too much pain to have him wait for me a few more days, but I will be talking to the vet about it), the time is certainly approaching very soon.
Dear Yoda’s Mom,
I understand your concern and worry for your senior guy, especially with you being so far away at the moment. I am glad the article offered clarity and comfort as you try to navigate this difficult situation. Hoping your vet can get your boy comfortable and give you time to make it back home. I will attach links to other articles with more information and guidance as you face this emotional season of life. Wishing you strength and peace. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
2. Dog Hospice Care Can Bring Peace and Dignity to Your Dog’s Final Days
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
Hi I have an 11 year yorkie who has been diagnosed with cushings he drinks alot of water and has the occasional accident and he loves his food, he is on vetoryl for the last 6 months but is now having seizures every 8 to 9 weeks where he get completely disoriented for a day or so and then he is back to normal again for another few weeks I dont want him to suffer but finding it hard to accept ending his life when he is fine for weeks at a time and then has a few bad days any advice would be greatly apperciated?
Hi Mags,
I am sorry your senior guy is dealing with so many issues at once. Is your vet aware of these recent seizure episodes? The reason I ask is because often seizures can be well controlled with a simple medication. I am not sure if your boy is a good candidate for treatment, but it would be worth discussing the possibility with your vet. I understand how hard it can be to adequately assess quality of life. I encourage you to trust your intuition as you know your boy better than anyone. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for everyone involved. Best wishes and bless you both.
1. Old Dog Seizures: Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Dog
2. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Tucker is a 11.5 year old Border Collie. He has been treated for Cushings with Vetoryl for over 4 years now. He “seems” to still have life and to be happy, but he has warts all over his body, wounds that ooze, losing his eye sight, his legs wobble so bad, he drools and pants all day, he paces, his fur is really thin and oily, he is always hungry and tries to eat animal poo and overall seems to he declining. The problem is he still goes on 2 mile walks most days of the week, and he seems happy around people. There is still life, but I am starting to struggle. I just dont know what the right time really will be because he always Rallies and finds another gear once I think we are getting close.
Dear Alexis,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior guy. From what you describe, your boy may have just entered the “window of time” where saying goodbye is a loving option but may not be urgent. I would rather let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. If you are having trouble evaluating Tucker’s quality of life, don’t’ hesitate to reach out to your vet for help and guidance. They can do an exam and let you know if they think he is nearing his final days. Ultimately, you have to trust your intuition as you know your boy better than anyone. Praying for clarity and strength as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you and Tucker. ♥
I’m really struggling caring for my almost 13 yr old male boxer. I suffer from severe depression, and my boy is all I have. The thought of loosing him has me on edge. my brain says it’s time. My heart is just shattering. I’m afraid I’ll suffer another nervous breakdown. This is an extremely difficult decision to make. How can I follow through with the worst choice a pet owner has to make. I’m a mess. Any advise ? thnx
Dear Evelyn,
My heart aches for you as you face this impossibly difficult decision for your beloved Boxer. There is no way to make this situation easier, but hopefully I can offer some comfort and peace of mind. We always focus on offering our pets a good quality of life, but a peaceful passing is just as important. You have to remember that by allowing your own heart to break, you are freeing your boy from suffering and giving him the relief and rest he deserves. I cannot think of a greater act of selfless love than that. I am certain he knows how much you love him, and I am also positive you will do whatever has to be done that’s in his best interest. Please don’t try to navigate this emotional path alone. Let your vet partner with you and offer support. There are also great online communities focused on pet bereavement that are very welcoming and offer a place to get your feelings out in the open. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Praying for strength to face each new day. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
2. When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
3. Grieving the Loss of a Dog After Euthanasia (& Finding Peace)
I have a 13 year old miniature schnauzer x Jack Russel. He has Cushings and I fear he is in an advanced state of it.
He suffers from
– Significantly increased thirst in dogs (i.e. polydipsia) and severe increases in urination volume (i.e. polyuria)
– Dramatic weight gain, especially in the belly, gives a pot-bellied dog appearance
– Ravenous appetite, sometimes to the point of stealing food from the table or the counter
– Panting (even when your dog is not excited or hot)
– Rapid breathing (when your dog is at rest, or even sleeping)
– Weak muscles, which may make your dog unable to go for long walks, or cause problems jumping or climbing stairs
– Sleeping much more than normal (may include restless sleep)
– Loss of fur or thinning fur (including hair loss on a dog’s tail)
– Smelly oily skin or wounds that ooze and seem tender to the touch
Constant licking or chewing on the skin and itchy dog paws
– weakness or being a severely lethargic dog
– Confusion or disorientation (can look similar to the signs of dementia in dogs)
– Periods of time when your dog seems unresponsive, or can’t easily be woken up
I take him out btw 2-3 times in the night to drink water and urinate. He gets lost and forgets to come back inside and I go to find him
– He is going blind as well as being disoriented, he sometimes just stands still for a little while staring into space.
– I am struggling to know what to do. After reading all your advice, the comment about ‘giving him medicine just because you can doesn’t mean you should.’ I love my dog to the moon and back but want what’s best for him.
It’s a hard decision to make as I have lost two dogs this year already. 1 x 3 yo French bulldog totally unexpected, 1 x Doberman who had a 12xm mass in her stomach – again unexpected.
Can anyone give me some advice, as I fear I’m not thinking straight because I am thinking about me.
Thank you.
Hi Janette,
I understand your concern for your senior guy with all these severe symptoms he is experiencing. While these may be due to advanced stages of Cushing’s disease, this could also just be the result of your boy going untreated. It is possible that if treatment is initiated that you would see a tremendous improvement in his symptoms and quality of life. Of course, there is no guarantee that his body will respond as expected, but it may be worth a try. If nothing else, saying goodbye can be a loving option and is sometimes the only way to offer peace and freedom from suffering. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers as well. Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for everyone involved. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Hello my nearly 13 year old fox terrier is exactly the same. Drinks so much water and urinates constantly. I am his caregiver and I work full time but I am up 4 or 5 times a night taking him for a wee, guiding him back inside, carrying him up the stairs and settling him before the next wee break. He comes to work with me during the day but he is just as bad at work, needing a wee about every half an hour. He wants to eat all the time, he has his dinner and then 10 minutes later he’s asking me for dinner because he’s forgetting he’s eating. He snores when he’s resting. He’s deaf, losing his hair and his eye sight is bad. I feel guilty because he is my best friend and has gotten me through so much. He likes a very short sniffy walk every other day but his tail is mostly down. I’m not sure when the time is right but I am really struggling with the broken sleep and clearing up wee and poo. What did you decide in the end? Xx
Dear Charlotte,
I am so sorry you are in this difficult situation with your senior pup. From what you describe, it sounds like your boy’s health is declining and he may be nearing his final days. Being a full-time caregiver to a dog with chronic issues is very hard. Caregiver fatigue is real, and you have to think about your quality of life too. I hope you can get the answers and advice you need to find a clear path forward. Wishing you both comfort and peace.
I know how u feel Evelyn, Results came back today that suggest Charlie my 10 1/2 little friend could possibly have Cushings. Last dog I had was 30 years ago and it took me 20 years to even consider giving my heart to another pet.. I also suffer from depression, anxiety and can’t even fathom the idea of him leaving me. Some ppl don’t understand the deep love a human can have for their pet., think we are silly or foolish cause after all its just a dog. Not sure of our outcome at this time, but I do know that I will spend what I have to, to give him a good life. I won’t make the mistake I did with my first dog, couldn’t face the idea of euthanasia, so let him suffer months too long.. Well I just saw ur post and felt ur pain, so I thought I’d let u know ur not alone.
Dear Beverly,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with Charlie. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us and offer sympathy and support to others. I am praying your senior guy will be able to maintain his quality of life for as long as possible. Wishing you comfort and strength as you navigate this unknown path. Bless you and your sweet boy. ♥
Thank you so much for this very informative article. We just had to make the difficult decision to set our 13 year old chihuahua free from Cushing’s, what a terrible incurable disease.
Your article really eased my heart in making the decision to set her free. We had been treating her with medication for 3 years, she had good and really bad days. Unfortunately 2 months ago she lost her vision and although she adapted to no longer being able to see, she quickly declined. She became disoriented and kept having a sinus infection. She began drinking and excessive amount of water and urinated a lot.
Yesterday we said farewell. It was not an easy decision, but to witness her sleep throughout the entire process really gave me some comfort.
Thank you once again for this article.
Dear Noemi,
I am sorry for the loss of your senior girl. What a blessing you were able to offer her a peaceful passing and freedom from her struggles. Thank you for the kind words about the article. May the memories of all the good times you shared be a comfort as you continue life’s journey. Wishing you healing for your heart and brighter days ahead.
Our 11 year old yorkie-poo, Kevin Andrew, had lab work completed and the marker has indicated he has Cushings. He has been exhibiting all of these symptoms, including disorientation and I didn’t realize this is part of it. We are taking him to the vet tomorrow to discuss quality of life care. After reading the other posts, with medication use most have only had months of relief. I’ve never gone through this before, and it is becoming more real that it is likely we will be relieving him of his ailments. My question is, how do you get through the mental and emotional aspect of this decision? I don’t want to watch Kevin suffer, it’s hard enough having watched family members suffer so significantly. He has been an amazing friend and companion.
Dear Sara,
My heart aches for you as you face this emotional decision for Kevin. I am not sure you really “get through” the mental aspect as much as you try to find peace with it. You have to look at this as a way to offer your beloved pup freedom from his struggles. I would rather let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. I cannot think of a greater act of selfless love than to allow your own heart to break so you can give Kevin comfort and rest. We often focus on providing a wonderful life, but a peaceful passing is just as important. I hope your vet can offer guidance and clarity as you try to navigate this difficult path. Wishing you strength to face the day. Bless you and yours. ♥
I find reading your site very helpful
My dog Bojangles is 8 years old. He was diagnosed with Cushing disease. 6 months ago as well as bladder full of stones . He had surgery to remove the stones. And started treatment for Cushing disease
He took 30 mg of vetoryl His symptoms got worse the vetoryl was increased. To 60mg
He continues to get worse it’s like he didn’t take any meds at all his panting is worse in the daytime and he looks miserable as most everyone else has reported he eats and drinks all the time He urinates all the time inside & out. he is so attached to me I just can’t decide what to do my vet says she’ has nothing else to offer him
My question is do I continue giving him a
Dear Glenda,
I am sorry your dog is struggling with this terrible disease and is not responding to treatment. It may be time to think about asking for a consultation with an internal medicine specialist. Also, I have seen comments from other readers that reported their dog did better after switching to twice daily dosing instead of once daily. I can’t explain why this would help, but it seems it does for some. If there is no way to get Bojangles comfortable and offer relief, then saying goodbye may be the most loving option. I know you want to do whatever you can to keep him with you as long as possible, but I would rather let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. Praying for clarity and strength as you navigate this difficult path. Bless you and your sweet boy.
Hi Glenda. Our Staffie boy was diagnosed 3 years ago with Cushings. He was initially on 60mg once a day but it actually made him poorly. He began to stumble when walking, his head tilted to one side and became what our vet called ‘half the dog’ he was before. With the vets help and advice he was put on 80mg split into two doses, morning and evening. Hendrix stopped stumbling within a few days, he had appeared to be losing his eyesight as he walked into things. All of the neurological signs went and we had our old boy back again. He is 11 now and appears to be getting very tired some of which will be age related. With the help of our vet we will decide when the time comes for him to be freed from his problems but at the moment he is doing pretty well.
Hi Susan,
I am sorry your boy is living with this difficult disease, but what a blessing he improved after switching to twice daily dosing instead of once daily. I am glad Hendrix has gained so much extra quality time with you and your family. Thank you for sharing your experience and offering support to others. Wishing him many happy days ahead. Bless you and your sweet boy.
My 14 year old fur baby was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease two years ago. We’ve treated it with medication. He’s been okay until the last few weeks. He seems lethargic and weak. Not himself at all. We just went to the vet for his 6 month check up. They did cortisol test and we should know something soon. I’m so scared that his levels are up. If they are it may be time to weigh his quality of life. I’m sad beyond belief. Should we consider putting him down? Are these the end stages of this disease ? Thank you for any advise you may have.
Dear Jennifer,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior guy. This may be the beginning of a steady decline but there is really no way to predict that ahead of time. I think you have to wait for the test results and then make some decisions. Don’t hesitate to ask your vet to assess your boy for quality of life. They can help guide you as you try to navigate this emotional path. Hoping for favorable results and praying for a way to turn this around. Bless you and your sweet boy.
Thank you for this article.
My 12 year old long haired dachshund Ren (10kg) was diagnosed with Cushings almost 2 years ago. It started with drinking and peeing excessively. I took him in for some urine/blood tests and an ultrasound of his abdomen. They found a large tumour on his spleen, thinking that was causing the symptoms. After an MRI and CT-scan, checking his heart, lungs, liver, kidneys etc, I decided to have the spleen and tumour removed and luckily it turned out benign. He recovered very well, but after recovery the excessive drinking and peeing didn’t change, he also became ravenous and lost hair on his back and nose. Another round of tests indicated he had Cushings.
Due to surgery being risky, him having no spleen (low immunity), he started treatment immediately with Vetoryl, with an advised full dose every morning. This didn’t work as intended and after a couple of months and more simulation tests I was advised to split the dose in two, with 12 hour intervals. This worked immediately and blood tests came back showing normalizing levels in his blood, urine, etc. All his hair grew back with a vengeance and he looks healthy as before.
At the start of the treatment he went to the vets every month for the stimulation test and after half a year of no change, they advised quarterly or half yearly tests depending on symptoms.. The results from his 2nd half year test came back positively once again, so we’re still carrying on.
Initially he was overweight, 10.6 kg, but I managed to get him down to 9.5 kg to help him walking better, which helped. Before that he kept tripping over his front legs. Still happens occasionally, but less often.
He is still a very hungry boy, never satisfied, but is enjoying life, love’s to play, go for walks, cuddle, etc. He is starting to get more wobbly on his legs, as in less coordinated and is showing some weakness when recovering from a miss step. I assume this is due to muscle loss.
I recently bought a support harness that I can clip carrying lead on at the front and back to support his weight evenly, depending on the walk and how he’s feeling that day.
He’s my best friend and I have the privilege of working from home so I’m with him 24/7.
I’m absolutely terrified of losing him and think about that everyday.
In December 2024 he will have been on Vetoryl for 2 years and hopefully he can grow very old with it.
The only thing I wish I could improve is the strength in his muscles, but I believe this might just be one of the symptoms as time goes by.
Thank you for me being able to leave our story here and all the best to anyone dealing with this disease, stay strong!
Dear Yvo,
I am sorry Ren is living with this difficult disease, but it sounds like he has been maintaining very well over the last couple years. What a blessing you can be at home with him every day and make the most of the time you have together. Thank you for sharing your experience. The information about the twice daily dosing of Vetoryl may be vital to another reader. Wishing you and your sweet boy all the best. Keep up the good work and give Ren a hug for me!
Hello. I have a 17 1/2 year old Yorkie Jack. He was diagnosed with Cushing just over a year ago and has responded very well to the medication. I have noticed now the last few days he is panting more and drinking water more but nothing else has changed his eating habits and pooping is fine. I am just worried is this the signs of end stage He is like a 2 yrs old half the day but then gets antsy in the afternoon. I just do t want home to suffer
Dear Sharon,
I understand your concern for your senior boy and agree these symptoms are a bit worrisome. Without examining him myself, it is hard to say if his health is declining or if his medication just needs to be adjusted a bit. I encourage you to reach out to your vet for advice. They can offer guidance as you navigate this difficult path and let you know if more testing needs to be done. Hoping you can find a way to maintain your pup’s quality of life for as long as possible. Bless you both. ♥
Yea my 13+ year old mutt was diagnosed with Cushings. I have him on Vetoryl which seemed to lessen his symptoms for the first couple of months but over the last month he has taken a downward turn. I no longer can crate him at night because his desperate cries at 3am wake me up. Since he is not crated I have to clean up at least one pee and sometimes a poo accident. Yesterday he went through 8 16 ounce bowls of water which of course meant I had to take him out 12 times to pee. He’s lost a significant amount of weight and his back legs tremble. When he’s not staring at me panting I usually find him flopped on his side (not asleep but not awake). The problem I’m having about euthanasia is he does not appear to be in any pain?
Dear David,
I am sorry your senior guy is starting to struggle, and his health is declining. I understand how hard it can be to determine when is best to say goodbye. It sounds like your boy may have entered his window of time where letting go is a loving option but may not be urgent. It is ok to choose euthanasia before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is pain and suffering. We often focus on giving a beloved dog a good quality of life, but a peaceful passing is just as important. Ultimately, you have to trust your intuition as you know your pup better than anyone. Praying for your comfort and for clarity as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you and your sweet boy. ♥
My sweet 10 1/12 yr old puppy Nola (American pitbull terrier) likely has adrenal dependent Cushings. She had a blood draw six months ago and everything was normal. She has some excessive thirst but accidents in the house and aside from eating right when I fed her (abnormal for her) no ravenous eating behavior. No noticeable skin issues either and behaviorally pretty normal. Last week during her annual vet appointment they ran her blood a usually and some levels related to her liver caused some concern. Urine analysis also indicated a potential issue. During her ultrasound there is a mass on her adrenal gland so the doctor is recommending the full day of blood testing to formally confirm cushings. Since hers is adrenal dependent vs pituitary, I’m struggling with surgery vs medication treatment as the next step. While surgery could potentially “cure” it assuming the tumor is benign and can be removed, it’s still major surgery with high risk, and likely high stress for her, and I’m not sure if that risk outweighs the reasonable amount of time she would have left in her life (even if she didn’t have cushings). Let’s be honest – I’ve been lucky enough to have her for almost eleven years. I can’t help but think I’d be “giving up on a dog” that behaviorally and physically seems to be doing well now by going with the medication when there is a surgical option available? She’s the sweetest most loving dog and I want to make sure I’m making the best decision for her and her quality of life, however long it is! Thank you to you and everyone who commented – its wonderful to know we aren’t the only ones struggling.
Dear Lauren,
I understand your concern for Nola and can see why you are conflicted with how to proceed. I wish I knew what was best, but unfortunately without playing a personal role in your dog’s medical care it is hard to make specific recommendations. You could ask for a consultation with a specialist to get their expert opinion. They can give you all the details of benefits vs. risks and help guide you in this decision-making process. Hoping you can get the answers you need to find a clear path forward. Wishing you all the best of luck and praying for many happy days ahead for your sweet girl.
Found this article when googling Cushings. Our vet suspected our 12 year old lab had it two vet visits ago but the numbers weren’t significant enough to pursue. His last vet visit, he had labs done which made her fear Cushings was a for sure thing. Bloodwork (CBC and chemistry panel): Suspicious of cushing’s disease as we have elevated platelets up from last time and elevated ALP (liver value/bile slow flowing) also up from last time, and cholesterol.
He also had xrays which indicated he has an enlarged liver. We didn’t take him in for further testing as he gets extremely anxious going to the vet and also with being left “alone” so staying over night doesn’t seem optimal to him. The vet gave us some treatment options ranging from $300-$800 a month. I am a stay at home mom to 6 kids so it’s just not financially feasible for us and I feel absolutely devastated I can’t do anything to help him.
The past few weeks I’ve noticed he is always shaking, panting even more than normal, hair loss has intensified, he has deep periods of sleep where you think he’s gone because he won’t respond to voice, gentle shaking, lifting of body parts etc, He’s taken to having multiple accidents in the house and jumps up (if he can, he’s having a really hard time getting on to the couch which use to be his favorite place to sleep and he also falls a TON when trying to get in the car – I’ve had to lift him up on several occasions) and steals food off the kitchen counter or right out of our kids hands.
I’m struggling because he has days where he just seems so happy and loving and I don’t want to end his life too soon but I don’t know what the right time is. My heart is breaking – I’ve literally had him since he was 6 weeks old and he came BEFORE my kids.
I just want to do what’s best for him.
Dear Rebecca,
My heart aches for you as your boy’s health begins to decline rapidly. It is never an easy decision to say goodbye, but sometimes it is the most loving option. Without examining him myself, it is hard to say if letting go now is best. I will attach links to other articles with more information on how to make this emotional decision. Wishing you strength and clarity as you navigate this unknown path. Bless you and your family. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Yesterday, May 13, 2024 my husband and I had to make the hard, but the right decision to put our 15 year old Jack to sleep. Jack was diagnosed with Cushing’s in 2018. He lived with it for 6 years. He took Vetryol daily for this many years. This medication afforded him to live a long and joyful life. But, a little over a year ago we noticed his back legs had weakened, he became blind in one eye and he began a cough which was congestive heart failure, his hair had began to thin, and his loss of muscle and body mass was evident. About six months ago, we began carrying him around most of the time because he would just stand or sit in the year like he didn’t know where he was at times. We didn’t want to accept the decline with this horrible disease. But, Jack let us know it was time. He looked at my husband with his eyes and gave kept licking his face. He was saying I’m tired and can’t go any longer. So, we called the vet the next day and made the appointment to put him to sleep. I held him in my arms the entire time and Jack went peacefully. Your heart breaks into pieces and you miss their spirit and presence so much. But, we are honestly relieved there is no more pain and suffering for Jack. It was 100% the right thing to do for our sweet baby boy dog!
Dear Becky,
I am so sorry for your loss of Jack. What a blessing you were able to offer him a peaceful passing and I am certain your presence was a comfort during his final moments. Thank you for being willing to share your story with our readers. I hope as time passes your heart can begin to heal. May Jack’s memory stay with you always and continue to bring you joy. ♥
Hello, i have a 12 year old dachshund who was actually diagnosed with cushings back when she was 8 but never displayed much symptoms except overly hungry until the end of December 2023 but since then she has just started excessive thirst, excessive peeing, has pot belly, a little anxiety restlessness here and there. I have not tried medicine yet & Im going to go to my vet next week. I know the next steps are medicine but from what Im reading the medicine has a lot of side affects & may not even work. Am I wrong if I don’t even want to try the meds and to consider putting her down now before things get worst or is it too early fir that? Im exhausted from -2 years of other off & on health issues and not sure I can mentally do another year of on going symptoms getting worse.
Hi Staci,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior girl. It is not wrong to forgo treatment and focus instead on palliative care. Your vet will be able to help guide you during the hospice stage and let you know when saying goodbye becomes the most loving option. Each dog enters a window of time where euthanasia is appropriate but not necessarily urgent. Without examining your pup myself, I can’t say for sure if she has entered her window yet. It is ok to let go before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is suffering and pain. Your quality of life matters too, and caregiver fatigue is very real. Hoping you can get the advice you need to have clarity in your decision making. Wishing you strength and comfort. Bless you and your sweet girl.
I’m facing this decision with my Luna. She was diagnosed at 9 years old with Cushing’s, and has been doing well on Vetroyl. But recently I noticed she was peeing in the house and drinking more, so I took a urine sample in to her vet to check for a UTI. It came back negative, but very dilute. Her most recent ACT stim was normal, which leads me to believe that she’s starting to have kidney issues. I can’t afford the blood work to confirm that… and she’s had to start wearing diapers to control her peeing in the house. I know she’ll tell me when it’s time, but I worry I won’t recognize it until it’s too late. She has been eating less, and she’s part beagle who had the nickname of Hoover for how she snarfed down her food. She still comes running for treats and human food, and plays with her little sister pup from time to time.
Dear Amy,
I am sorry you are facing this impossibly difficult situation with Luna. I know you want to do what is best for her and agree it may be time to focus on quality of life. I encourage you to trust your intuition as you know her better than anyone. I will attach links to other articles with more information that may be helpful as you navigate this unknown path. Praying for a clear path forward and wishing you strength and comfort.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dog Kidney Failure: When to Euthanize Your Dear Dog
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
I love your articles Julie and came hear today looking for guidance as our 13 yr old Chiweenie-Terrier with Cushings has now developed diabetes. We were elated when we started him on Vetoryl last year, seeing him go from the worst in Cushing symptoms to a normal dog again, but it didn’t last. This past month he started drinking and urinating frequently again and while the panting wasn’t prevalent, we noticed weight loss. We just learned that he now has Diabetes too. The vet said it is very difficult to manage both, the Vetoryl works against the insulin and regulating their levels is very challenging. While it is hopeful that many Cushings dog owners take this on and say it is possible in online forums, I do wonder if it is more beneficial for the owner than the dog. I know our little guy doesn’t have the best quality of life right now and I am worried that trying to manage both might make it worse, before it gets better, if it even can get better. I also kick myself, because we took another abandoned dog in that needed us (she found our house) and I know that situation has caused a lot of stress for our guy and I wonder if it helped bring on the diabetes. I guess we’ll never know, but right now we are reeling with the diagnosis and trying to come to terms with making a decision that is best for him and us. I do appreciate your thoughts here, because it’s helping me weigh the choice of euthanasia versus additional treatment and management of his issues. It is just hard to let go.
Hi Bruce,
My heart goes out to you as you face this emotional decision for your senior pup. Without examining him myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions about his quality of life. I do think it is better to let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. I will attach links to other articles, you may not have seen, that offer additional information and great advice from other readers. Hoping you can find the answers you need to be at peace with whatever choice you have to make. Wishing you and your sweet boy all the best and praying for comfort.
1. Signs Your Dog With Diabetes Is Dying
2. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
3. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
I brought in a new male pup (chihuahua) for my husband and I noticed my 13 3/4 year old Chorkie’s stress level skyrocketed. I self diagnosed her (Rascal) with Cushing’s. I couldn’t afford the blood tests. She has almost every single symptom listed above. Pacing constantly, looking for food, ravenous with food and water to the point if not controlled or watched she’ll eat until she vomits and drink 3 bowls of water quickly, has UTI’s, sores all over, potbelly stretched so badly the past week that one sore which appears different than her others and I’m afraid may be cancer started bleeding and enlarging, sleeping uncomfortably, losing her eyesight and hearing, does not tolerate baths, breathe rapidly and hassles a lot, even during sleep, no longer plays, tried to bite me when I put meds on her sore to stop bleeding and had never done that and more. I’m taking her in the morning to do the humane thing, but this is killing me. I’m convinced the pup I brought in, now 1 1/2 years, progressed her symptoms. She is extremely jealous of him. I just love her too much to allow her to suffer.
Dear Jennifer,
My heart aches for you with the recent loss of your beloved Rascal. You made a loving choice to allow your own heart to break so your girl didn’t have to suffer. I hope with time the grief will fade and your heart can begin to heal. May her memory stay with you always and bring you joy. Wishing you brighter days ahead. Bless you and yours. ♥
my 15 year old Chihuahua was just diagnosed with cushings,but I think he has had it for quite some time and is declining quite rapidly. o ly been on treat.ent for 2 days..please help, I’m at a loss as what to do
Dear Karen,
I am sorry your senior pup is struggling with Cushing’s and his health is beginning to decline. Without examining him myself, it is hard to make specific recommendations. Some dogs just don’t respond well to treatment, or the disease may have advanced too far for the medication to be effective. You may want to ask your vet about a referral to an internal medicine specialist. Hoping your boy can continue to fight and praying for healing. Bless you and your sweet boy.
I just found out my 11 year old min pin chihuahua mix,Princezz Jazzmin, has Cushing. I’m meeting with her vet tomorrow to talk about treatment. Last September we found out she has diabetes. I understand that if you have one you could have the other. My concern is to even start her on treatment. I already know that the cost is going too be more that I can handle. Is it wrong of me not wanting to give her any treatments? Jazzy has been raised with having a pet door. She goes outside a lot. I just don’t know how much it is to actually go to the bathroom. I have just now noticed how often I fill her water bowl.
I’m very confused. I feel like her vet wants me to medicate her just for the money!
Dear Vanessa,
I am sorry Jazzmin is dealing with both of these terrible diseases at the same time. Without examining her myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions about her health and well-being. Please don’t take your vet’s concern and care for your girl as only a scheme to make money. It is cruel to allow your girl to suffer with the symptoms of uncontrolled blood sugar and high cortisol levels without any type of intervention. If you wanted to pursue hospice or palliative care, those are both acceptable paths. But if you do not want to proceed with any type of treatment, saying goodbye would be the most loving option. I hope you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for Jazzmin. Praying for comfort and a clear path forward.
Thank you so much for this article. Two years ago I adopted Jack. He had spent at least a year as a street dog, was finally captured and housed at a local shelter for six months before I saw him online and fell in love. I always knew our time together might be short. No one knew his actual age. Instinctively I knew something was wrong for the past few months. There has been unexplained panting, belly swelling, and an area of his hindquarters has never really had any hair. The vet did a blood panel and everything is showing Cushing’s. Right now he is still enjoying life and we are going on a short road trip in about three weeks.. However, your kind words regarding “letting go” while there is still some joy were exactly what I needed to hear. I will be making “that choice” soon .I take comfort in knowing Jack’s last few years were spent being spoiled, loved, and truly cared for. Thank you.
Dear Deb,
I am sorry your boy is facing this difficult disease, but glad he has you by his side every step of the way. What a blessing you found him and were able to make his last years full of joy and love. Thank you for sharing his story with us. Wishing Jack all the best for many happy days ahead. Bless you and your sweet guy. ♥
Hi Karen,
Your post caught my eye as I too am the mum to an 11.5yr old staffy who has just been definitively diagnosed with cushings but I sense has had the disease for much longer and has has a pretty rapid decline in symptoms this last week.
For a long time she’s been drinking and peeing excessively and obsessed with food but it seems her hearing, vision, weight and disorientation have worsened really quickly this last week.
We started on the meds today and I’m hoping she experiences some improvements to her symptoms.
How did you go with yours?
Hi Maree,
I am sorry your girl is experiencing a worsening of her symptoms. Hoping the medication will offer quick relief and improve her quality of life. Praying for comfort and peace for you and your sweet girl.
Thank you for this post. Our beloved dog, Maliboo, has about 90% of the symptoms listed for Cushing’s. Although some days she still acts like a puppy, most days are sad. The past few days have involved a bit of diarrhea and I’m starting to think her time is coming. She has been so loving for almost 12 years. Again, thank you!
Dear Kelly,
I am so sorry you are facing some tough decisions about Maliboo’s quality of life. I wish you strength and comfort as you navigate this difficult path ahead. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
thank you! you have helped me make a difficult decision for my 12 year old beagle Misty, she ended up getting cushings 2 years ago. we got her on meds and she did great for 2 years and now it is back with vengeance. it is hard but alot of the comments helped me have peace of mind
thank you
Dear Gary,
I am glad the article was helpful and comforting while you face this emotional decision for your senior girl. Thank you for the positive feedback. Praying for your strength and peace for your heart. May Misty’s legacy live on and always be a source of joy in your life. ♥
Our Jack/chi cross is 14 this year. She has had cushings for about 3-4 years. We tried medication but it made no difference to her health so it was agreed it wasn’t worth continuing. We’re about to book the appointment 🙁
She’s not interested in seeing us, just the constant looking for food, there’s no off switch, her skin is thing and papery, she has the swollen cushings belly, yet feels like bone. She excessively drinks. Barks for no reason. Has milky eyes. Just looking in a bad condition. He had a previous leg surgery, and the cushings muscle wastage means her gait is bad on that leg. She also pees the crate.
She seems to have energy, but that isn’t quality of life.. she would not want to be the dog she now is.. even eats poop if we can’t get to her in time to stop it.
I am riddled with guilt for booking her last appointment 😢
Dear Emma,
I understand how emotional this decision must be for you. But it sounds like you are making the most loving choice for your girl by offering her rest and freedom from suffering. I pray her passing is smooth and peaceful. Wishing you comfort and healing for your heart. ♥
My beautiful and happy dog Piper has come down with Cushing’s while taking prednisone for PIMA, a non-regenerative anemia. We discovered this 6 weeks ago when she showed symptoms of Anaplasmosis. Blood tests showed she was positive for that, plus her RBC count was 16%; She was put on anti-biotics for Anaplasmosis and Prednisone for the anemia.
She was actually functioning pretty normal with the anemia, but now after 6 weeks of prednisone, she has fallen apart.
As of today she has stopped eating, so we can’t even taper her prednisone down the way we’re supposed to. She actually will pick up food, but spit it out right away, or just turn her head away. I feel like if we never started the prednisone, she may have had more quality time with us, even with the low red blood cell count .
Any thoughts Dr. B?
I’m hoping she passes way in her sleep tonight, but that never happens does it? We’ll have to make the call, I’m afraid.
Your input would be appreciated. Thank you.
Dear Scott,
My heart aches for you as you face this tragic situation with Piper. If you are not currently working with an internal medicine specialist, I highly recommend you ask for a referral. They have tons of experience dealing with complicated cases and may have ideas about treatment or therapies that are not readily available in general practice. If your girl is truly suffering and you feel like it is in her best interest to say goodbye, then I would trust your intuition as you know her better than anyone. I know you want to do anything you can to give her more time, but sometimes we just aren’t given that choice. I am praying for your strength and clarity as you make some tough decisions. Hoping for a miracle and wishing you comfort and peace.
My 10 year old dog was diagnosed with cushions disease in the end of December, when he went for his senior bloodwork, It took me a little bit to come up with the money for them to take his blood for eight hours , he started his treatment in the begging of march and I feel like it’s not working. He has a very big pot belly he’s only been on the medication for a month. The x-ray showed and enlarged liver and they asked me if he eat gravel. I said no he does eat grass. His white blood count looks high. I’m waiting for the vet to call me back on that today he threw up three times in a matter of minutes, not sure if it’s the medication or what his back legs are starting to slip I feel like the medication is making things worse because he wasn’t this before medication. I’m just having a hard time of when is the right time I don’t know how far he is in this disease and they can’t tell me they told me it was pituitary,he does have an ultrasound on the 11th. He also was 22.6 pound on the 3/2 and Friday 3/29 he was 20.6 pounds he’s eating but not as much the drinking and urine is the same as it was before medication.
Dear Amanda,
I am so sorry you are in this difficult situation with your senior guy. I can only imagine how worried you must be as your boy’s health continues to decline. Without playing a personal role in his medical care is it hard to make specific conclusions and recommendations. Trust your intuition as you know your pup better than anyone else. If you think your boy is suffering, then it is ok to ask your vet about hospice care until you are ready to say goodbye. I would rather let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary pain and struggling. We put most of our focus on giving a beloved pet a good life, but a peaceful goodbye is just as important. Hoping you can find the advice you need to make the best choice for you and your sweet boy. Praying for clarity and strength. Bless you both. ♥
My sweet Bailey Boots is a cockapoo, 15 years old and 30 pounds. She was “officially” diagnosed 10 months ago but had symptoms much longer. I believe it actually start back in 2022 with multiple lesions on her skin. The vet tested for everything but not cushings. They did clear up over time but that is also when some of the other symptoms increased. She has always been food driven so it wasn’t as obvious. Due to her age and some other medical issues that she had with her back legs the vet didn’t t want to put her through the medication and subsequent testing required while on them. I have been treating her with homeopathic meds since her official diagnosis and pain meds to keep her comfortable but she has taken a turn for the worse. I am heartbroken, she is my baby girl. I don’t want her to struggle getting up and down and being in pain but I am still having a hard time with the decision. She started vomiting and has had severe diarrhea. Her blood work came back at he emergency vet with high liver numbers so they did an ultrasound and found that her liver is enlarged and she has mucocele and was concerned her gallbladder could perforate. I have scheduled In the comfort of home to come this morning to help her cross over the rainbow bridge. I pray to God for peace and comfort to get me through this. It has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made.
Dear Heather,
My heart aches for you with your recent loss of Bailey. I am glad you were able to offer her a peaceful goodbye in the comfort of her own home. What a blessing you shared 15 wonderful years together. I hope with time your heart will begin to heal. Wishing you comfort and peace as you continue life’s journey.
Did any of your pups have pain when lifting them up to the bed at night or pain at the back base of the head near neck?
Hi Michaela,
I am not sure who you were trying to address with this reply. From what you describe, I would be suspicious about spinal pain. These could be symptoms of IVDD. Here is a link to an article with more information: IVDD in Dogs: Why it Happens
As always, if you have any lingering concerns, don’t’ hesitate to reach out to your vet for guidance and support.
Yes. Pain and crying out when lifting up onto the bed and when lifting to place back down on the ground.
My 8 year old husky has suspected Cushings, but my vet said it wouldn’t be worth paying for the testing if we’re not going to be able to afford the expensive treatment, however he does exhibit a lot of the symptoms of Cushings. He was diagnosed with diabetes in Nov of 2023 and we’re still not completely regulated on that side. He also has pancreatitis and has chronic flare ups (usually once every two weeks). The flare ups seem to get worse every time and tonight he actually ended up throwing up, which he hasn’t done in a while. He’s going blind and has arthritis. He still seems so young, and does have a little spunk, but I feel like his quality of life is not great. Opinions? Is it time to let him go?
Dear Emily,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult decision for your beloved boy. Without examining him myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions about his quality of life. It does sound like he may have entered the “window of time” where saying goodbye is a loving option but may not necessarily be urgent. It is ok to let go before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is pain and suffering. I understand how hard it can be to navigate this emotional path. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Praying for comfort and peace for everyone involved. Bless you.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
We have a cockerpoo and she’s just turned 8 and is in the process of being diagnosed with Cushing but we have noticed the deterioration in her in just two weeks, her legs shake constantly while stood and her pads have started bleeding just from normal walking. It’s so upsetting as she’s so young
Dear Gaynor,
I am sorry your girl may be facing this difficult diagnosis, and her health is declining. Hoping your vet can get some answers and find the best way to offer relief. Praying for healing for your sweet girl and wishing you both all the best as you navigate this hard road ahead.
My boy Rockefeller was diagnosed with Cushings Disease and I couldn’t bare to part with him. I discussed his condition with his vet and she advised that there were guarantees but surgery might help him have a better quality of life for a couple more years. We had the surgery which seemed to help, but if course it was a temporary fix. When I felt he was struggling and he started wasting away, I discussed it with his doctor and she told me it would be best to euthanize him before his condition worsen. We scheduled his procedure the next day. She suggested that I get him a fat juicy burger for his last meal. He wouldn’t even take a bite. I knew it was time and I miss him with all my heart ♥️.
Dear Barbara,
I offer my deepest sympathies as you grieve the loss of your beloved boy. What a blessing you were able to offer him a peaceful goodbye and save him from unnecessary suffering. I can only imagine how much you miss him but am certain he knew how much he was loved. May his memory live on and be a source of joy in your life. Bless you. ♥
My almost 15 year old Boxer mix has Cushing’s. She was already suffering from very bad arthritis beforehand, has lost her hearing and has cataracts that compromise her sight. my vet recommended against treating her for cushing’s with medications since my goal is to give her the best quality of life that I can for as long as she has left. I have had success using supplements to control some of the symptoms (panting, excessive drinking and urination). she was previously having constant accidents in the house and was even pooping on herself while sleeping and that has completely stopped. Without all that cortisol keeping her agitated, she’s much happier now albeit very sedentary.
The supplements have not helped with her skin. she has bumps all over her sides and back as well as some open sores where she has lost patches of fur. they have also not helped with her weakness. combined with her arthritis, her back legs are basically noodles and I have to help her get up, carry her up and down stairs at bedtime and steady her when she walks so she falls down quite often.
thankfully she is an incredibly easy going tolerant dog who has never complained about anything for her entire life. even though she can’t go on walks or do too much anymore, she seems happier now that some of her symptoms are controlled.
Hi Erin,
I am glad your girl seems to be doing well and the supplements are offering some relief from symptoms. She is very lucky to have you taking such good care of her! Thank you for being willing to share your experience with us. Wishing you continued success and keep up the good work. ♥
I am very grateful to find this article and read all the concerned dog owners who do not want their dogs to suffer with Cushing’s. I, for one, have seen much suffering as a PICU RN. Dogs are a lot like babies and non-verbal children. They keep their spirits high because they know it makes us happy as parents to see them happy and they want to please us. With modern medicine, we are able to keep people/animals alive, sometimes miraculously, but it is usually on the heels of great suffering. I am currently faced with a decision that is leaving me in turmoil. I have the opportunity to move to the UK. Initially, I thought I would take my 12 y/o Malti-poo, Rosie, who has Cushing’s with me. She’s had it for over 4 years. Now, I don’t think it’s a good idea because I see her disease progressing; increased muscle loss, shaking, poor stamina, food aggression and “staring into space”, 2 major infections this year. I don’t want to (and I don’t think I could) find a replacement home for her when I go and now I feel I will be doing her a disservice by relocating her with all the stress involved: new people, new climate, sick). She still has quality of life according to the scale given in the link but that is with familiar surroundings and a solid routine. She’s lived in the same house since we rescued her at 8 months. Would a vet even consider euthanasia when it may not be the exact “window” but that window appears to be quickly approaching? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Dear Anne,
My heart aches for you as you face this impossibly difficult situation with Rosie. I commend you for considering her well-being and not just your own wishes. I do think you would be able to find a vet to help you offer your sweet girl a peaceful goodbye and spare her from unnecessary anxiety and stress. It is ok to let go while there is still some joy present, before all hope is lost and the only thing that remains is pain and suffering. I pray for your strength and comfort as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you and your sweet girl.
My darling girl Holly who is a Cocker Spaniel will be 9 next month and has just been diagnosed with Cushings disease this week. She has a 2cm mass on her Adrenal gland and a nodule on her liver. They won’t know if the mass is cancerous until they remove it. She is still so hyper and always desperate to get out a walk and always excited, she has a thick coat and the only symptoms she has is the water drinking and eating. She is on 40mg of Trilostane and she’s to go back in three weeks for a CT scan to see if it has grown and then they want to do an operation to remove it. They said the mass is very close to a vessel so the CT scan will show how close but they think they can operate. They have said the operation is very high risk and I don’t know if I can put her in for it knowing how terrified she is of going to the Hospital and leaving me and it may be the last time I see her if she doesn’t make it, I will never forgive myself but if it the only chance of survival then I feel I need to give her it. I have read a lot of success stories of dogs having tumours removed through keyhole Adrenalectomy and so we have found a Hospital in London that does this and we will ask to be referred there by our current Hospital. If it comes back that they can’t operate could she get Chemo? Or what would her prognosis be like if she stayed on the Trilostane with the mass being quite big already? I will be looking into other Holistic options too. This can’t be the end of the road I can’t imagine my life without her, she’s my baby and my best friend, I work from home too and she’s always by my side 24 hours a day, we never go away abroad as it means we need to leave her so everywhere we go she is too, I am really struggling to process this as she seems fine on the outside I just can’t believe it’s happening to her. Any advice would be very appreciated as I don’t feel the Hospital have been very forthcoming with options yet but they seem to be waiting until the ct scan is done. I am not willing to wait three weeks and want it done asap.
Hi Ashley,
I understand your concern for Holly with this mass that has been found on her adrenal gland. I know you want to get answers as quickly as possible and move on to the treatment phase, but I do think it is best to get CT results before making any definite decisions. I am sorry for the delay in response and am wondering how Holly is doing now. What did you find out from the CT scan? Did you end up pursuing surgery? Hoping all is well and praying your girl is still living her best life. Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.
My dog Rudy is 11 1/2 years old. He was diagnosed with Cushing about 1 year ago but we believe he has had it for about two years. It started with drinking a ton of water and eating a lot. He got the pot belly pig look. We took him to the vet and they said the drinking was from the allergy meds. Then the belly got worse and we took him back to the vet again they did more tests and decided Cushing. Now he drinks normal but doesn’t eat hardly at all. Will go 12 or more hours without urinating. Has diarrhea and has lost the use of both hind legs. It started with one leg and then a week later he lost the use of the second leg. Blind and can hear slightly. He is on gabapentin and without it he shakes and is miserable. With it, he sleeps a lot, not much else. I’m struggling to make the rainbow decision. He is showing a lot of the late stage sign but some are confusing since he isn’t eating a lot, potting in the floor. Can you give me some guidance?
Dear Jaime,
My heart goes out to you as you face this emotional decision for Rudy. My best advice is to try and look at Rudy’s quality of life as a whole instead of watching for specific signs. Is he truly living of just merely existing? Does he still find joy in things he used to love? Does he seek out affection and enjoy attention from his family? Sometimes letting go is the most loving option and it is ok to say goodbye before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is pain and suffering. I will attach links to other articles with great information and advice from other readers as well. Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for everyone involved. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
My dog Rudy is 10 years and 3 months old. A boxer, diagnosed with Cushing in Nov2023. We have been treating him for multiple UTI, skin infection, etc. from Jan2023. Recently his water intake has increased and started stealing food from the counter top. Twice he ended up eating a dozen banana with the peel and the next day he was vomiting the whole day. He sleeps all the time. Pee’s in the bed. Zone outs. What should I do? Is he al his end stage ?
Hi Swarna,
I am sorry Rudy is having so many issues at the same time. Without examining him myself it is hard to make specific conclusions about his quality of life. Some of the symptoms you mentioned could be signs of dementia or cognitive dysfunction. I encourage you to reach out to your vet. They can evaluate him and give you their honest opinion on whether he is truly suffering or if there are things that could be done to improve his circumstances. Your vet is there to help guide you along this difficult path and offer advice. Hoping you can get the answers you need to make the best choice for your sweet boy. Wishing you all the best.
Dear dr Buzby,
Like so many other readers I’m very greatful for this article. Our 8.5 year old Maltese cross Tsi Tsu girl, Macey, has recently lost her sight in just 2 weeks. She also shows 80% of the Cussings symptoms. We initial started with preliminary tests to determine if it was SARDS or Cussings, but after hearing about the constant prosedures, prognosis and financial burden, we decided to stop. Going blind so suddenly took so much of her joy and adding the lethargy, hunger,thirst, urination already feels so cruel without her being subjected to all the tests. She seems to be adjusting and have started wagging her tail again and following me around. But she is more restless than before, and now also started panting in the evenings. For now we will keep an eye on her, but I want to thank you for giving us pup parents the (so very) needed ‘permission’ to say its OK to be merciful. Not only for their sakes, but for our hearts too.
God bless, Rieka
Dear Rieka,
My heart goes out to you as you face this emotional path ahead. You are absolutely right that it is OK to be merciful and offer peace and rest to a beloved senior pup. Take things day by day and make the most of the time you are gifted. Wishing you and Macey love and comfort. Bless you both. ♥
I have a 10-year-old Chihuahua who was diagnosed with Cushing’s in July. He went from fine to staring at walls, falling over and throwing up. He was 11lbs and got up to 18lbs! All he wanted to do was eat! Now he’s almost completely blind, doesn’t eat much, wants to drink like crazy, is peeing like crazy, and now has diarrhea. He’s now getting skinny. He’s my son’s dog, that is now off at college, and I’m getting worn down by constantly cleaning up poop, and washing his diapers to help with the peeing. He still seems ok. He just sleeps a lot and wanders around running into things. Are any of these signs that he’s in the final stage? I didn’t want to just put him down, but he gets worse, then seems ok. I’m so torn.
Dear Jamie,
I understand why you are conflicted and think it is good you are reaching out for advice. From what you describe, it sounds like your pup has entered the window of time where euthanasia is a loving option. It is ok to say goodbye before all joy is lost and the only thing that remains is suffering and pain. Dementia is cruel because all of the issues are mental and physically they can seem to be ok. But I am convinced that the suffering caused by mental disease is just as bad, if not worse, than physical disease. I hope you can find the guidance you need to make the best decision for everyone involved. Bless you and your family. ♥
Dr. Buzby,
Thank you for the writing this thoughtful article. I have an appt tomorrow for my sweet girl Bailey. She was diagnosed with Cushing’s about 3 months ago. She is on meds but also has hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis. She can no longer take walks and is so focused on food. She often poops in the house and tears up all the trash looking for anything. I have scheduled and canceled euthanasia at least twice second guessing myself. I’ve come to the point where I can’t watch her suffer anymore. I love her so much and she has been with me through so many hard life obstacles. I am still second guessing myself as she can walk but clearly as signs of dementia and I feel waiting until her back end goes would be heartbreaking and unfair for her. Thank you for the information and I will go with my gut tomorrow even if it breaks my heart.
Dear Patty,
I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to Bailey. Even with knowing you made the right choice; it doesn’t lessen the grief over her absence. Hoping her memory will be with you always and be a source of joy in your life. Wishing you comfort and peace.
I have an 8 yr old chiweenie who was diagnosed with Cushing’s almost 3 years ago. She is about 18 lbs and also has thyroid issues. She is always wanting food, but has started being more lethargic, sleeping more, has started panting, she lays with her mouth partially open because she has a hard time breathing. She’s starting to gnaw at her paws and since diagnosis, she licks the floor or her bedding. We can’t afford treatment, and our vet won’t tell us how much longer she thinks Dixie has. Dixie still enjoys going places, visitors she knows, and tries to play but gets worn out quickly. I’m not sure at what point to consider euthanizing, because I believe in quality over quantity
Dear Brittney,
My heart goes out to you as you face this emotional situation with your little pup. I understand how hard it can be to decide when to say goodbye. The reason your vet won’t tell you how long they think Dixie will live is because there is no way to know. If they gave you any sort of time for prognosis then it would absolutely be nothing but a guess on their part. And the last thing they want to do is give you false hope for more time than she actually has. I agree it is best to focus on quality of life instead of quantity. I will attach links to other articles with more information on how to assess this and great comments from other readers as well. Ultimately you have to trust your intuition as you know Dixie better than anyone. Wishing you comfort and peace as you navigate this unknown path. Bless you and your sweet girl.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Signs Your Dog is Dying: A Caring Message to Bring You Peace
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
My shitzu name is also Bailey she has been diagnosed with Cushings . Disease
She is always drinking and peeing and pot belly and uti infections I will be putting my Bailey to sleep on July 2 I just want one month to make as much memories with her as I can She is the love of my life. But I have to do what is best for her
Dear Betty,
My heart goes out to you as you spend these last days with Bailey. Wishing you both happiness and comfort. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
Thank you so much for this article, which I think answered the question of why we had to put our 13 year old American Eskimo to “sleep” yesterday. It was so shocking and heartbreaking, but she out of nowhere started vomiting a lot and suddenly not urinating. The night before she was drinking bowls of water and seemed more restless. They pulled her blood and did an ultrasound. She was in end stage kidney failure and her kidneys stopped producing urine. She had an enlarged liver and belly fully of fluid and her back legs just wouldn’t work on the stairs. This all happened seemingly out of nowhere, but Cushing’s was suspected 3 years ago when all of her coat fell off along her torso but not her head and legs. She had raised liver enzymes and hypothyroid that was managed with medication but her hair never grew back. She had frequent skin infections that we managed with baths. Then the hunger was getting out of control the last few months. We started to notice dribble on the carpet, and she was shoving her paws into her mouth chewing at them. My mother couldn’t afford the testing and treatment, but it sounds as if it doesn’t add much to the timeline? The vet did not tell us why she had kidney failure yesterday, maybe she didn’t want us to feel guilty about not exploring the Cushing’s 3 years ago. I was really struggling with the decision to put her down without truly understanding what caused the kidney damage, but knowing now has brought me some comfort that we did the right thing yesterday. My mother couldn’t afford the thousands in hospice and it doesn’t sound like they would have been able to save her kidneys at this point. Do you agree that Cushing’s was likely the cause for our Nina? This disease is a thief of our beloved pets. My heart goes out to all of you and your pets dealing with it.
Dear Jill,
My heart goes out to you with your recent loss of Nina. It does sound like Cushing’s may have been the cause of her progressive decline and I think you made a wise and loving choice to offer your girl peace and rest. It is normal to ponder all the “what ifs” while grieving but please don’t carry the burden of guilt. You gave Nina a wonderful life and a peaceful passing. That is what we should all strive for! Praying for comfort and healing for you and your family. Bless you all. ♥
Our 17 year old mutt, Bentley (he looks like tramp in Lady and the Tramp) has all the symptoms on your list, except the chewing and smell. I was looking on the internet to find out what was wrong with him, and narrowed it down to Cushing and so glad I found you blog. I wish I had found it sooner because Bentley would have greatly benefited for your “Toe Grips”, he hated shiny floors and would back our of our tiled kitchen.
Dear Brian,
I am so sorry Bentley is not doing well and you are facing some hard decisions about his quality of life. Sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option and only way to offer relief and rest. Praying you will find the strength you need to navigate this emotional path. Wising you and your sweet boy comfort and peace.
I had to stop reading these posts or start crying. My 12-year-old 105 lb. Lab/Akita mix was diagnosed with Cushings last summer. She has times when she pants quite a bit and looks miserable. Last night she was under my feet all night and got on the couch with me, which she never does. She was panting so hard and shaking, I didn’t know what to do. I gave her a dose of her medication which seemed to help but this morning she was following me everywhere again. I had to go to work and she followed me down the stairs to the garage. It broke my heart to leave her. I’m at a loss at this point. I had someone at my house working yesterday while I was at work so maybe that stressed her out. She hasn’t been eating or drinking so it’s confusing since that’s a symptom of worsening Cushings. She also has arthritis so difficulty going up stairs has been normal for a while. I usually know when it’s time, I’ve had dogs all my life. I don’t feel like she is ready since a week ago she was still playing a little.
Dear Connie,
I am so sorry your girl is not doing well, and I understand why you are concerned. It sounds like she is nearing her window of time where saying goodbye can be the most loving option. I know you want to do what is best for her and feel certain you will know when to offer your beloved girl peace and rest. Trust your intuition. You know your girl better than anyone. Wishing you strength to navigate this difficult path and bless you both. ♥
Thank you for such a human article. My 11yo lab mix rescue, Blake, was diagnosed with Cushing 6mo ago. He had surgery to remove silicone dip cups from his stomach that he ate (due to the Cushing we didn’t know he had), then was diagnosed, and paid thousands. He’s on trilostane(?). We’re still trying to figure out his dose but he just seems so sad. He doesn’t bark when people come to the door anymore. Doesn’t get excited when he sees my father, who he loves. The only way I can get him to eat is by adding chicken, rice and beef broth to his food like a soup. He appears to be having tremors and shaking at times. His breathing is fast at times when he’s having the tremors. His back legs seem to be weakening some. He’s lost weight. He seems mildly disrupted during his sleep at night. I’m so worried about him every day. My heart breaks every time I see him shaking. I don’t know if he’s in pain. I’ve never had a dog before and definitely am not prepared for this. Our daughters will be heartbroken. Thank you for giving space to share.. this is so painful.
Dear Amanda,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with Blake. I am sorry that despite treatment he still seems to be feeling bad and his health is declining. I wish I had some great advice or could tell you what to expect as you walk this emotional path. I can tell you that you are not alone and that I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts. I hope that when the time comes to say goodbye, it will be clear, and I pray for your strength and comfort. Sending you all my best.♥
Have you tried natural supplements such as Melatonin and Lignans? Myos for leg strength?
I am trying this supplement now. Honestly I’m not seeing results. My girl was on Vetoryl 120 mg and had no clinical improvements. I have taken her off the med and the only difference is more water consumption. I am at a loss on what to do. She is 7 and other than polydipsea and polyuria, she is the same dog she’s always been.
Hi Patricia,
I am sorry your girl is not showing the improvement that was expected after starting the Vetoryl. Honestly, if her symptoms are mild, she may be better off without treatment at this point. You can always ask for a consultation with an internal medicine specialist if needed. Hoping you can find the best way to keep her happy and enjoying life for many years to come.
My sweet 12 year old Chihuahua, Meena, is believed to have cushings along with some other complications. Possibly a mass in her abdomen. This decision is so incredibly hard and it feels cruel to be the one to have to choose to end one of your best friends lives. But the more I see her suffer, the more I realize just how horrible it is to witness. Her belly seems like it can’t possibly get any larger or she might pop. Shes drinks bowls and bowls of water and continues to urinate in the house. Over the last month since her diagnosis, her legs have weekend much more to the point that she’s struggling to get around and can barely use the stairs. She goes to the bathroom even in her own bed. Then one morning, 2 weeks ago, she woke up with a big bump on her rear end/top of her tail, and when I went to touch her to see what it was…it exploded with puss. I couldn’t believe it. Even though all of this is happening, she’s still searching the floor for crumbs throughout the day, eating, and no poop accidents yet. I just can’t help but feel like “what kind of life is this for my poor girl.” I never want to make a decision out of convenience for myself or my family – I have to know it’s what best for her. And being so invested and so in love, it’s so hard. I truly am at a crossroads and this decision feels too hard. I found this article and felt like some of you here would understand, so I felt safe to comment. I appreciate this article and the support it brings to us dog parents trying to make such hard decisions. Thank you Dr. Buzby.
Dear Dayna,
I am so sorry Meena is not doing well and her health is declining. I know you would do anything for her as it is clear she is dearly loved. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us. As you know, it helps others to know they are not alone. I pray for your strength and comfort as you navigate this difficult path ahead. Wishing you both peace and hoping you can find a bit of joy in each day you are gifted. ♥
Thank you for the helpful article and for sharing the letters from people going through difficult times with their own pets with Cushings. It has been very helpful to me, as my husband and I are in the situation ourselves, having rescued a Lhasa Apso mix, who was then about 7 years old, three years ago. Kodi, now 10 years old, was diagnosed with Cushings about a year ago, and has been on Vetoryl ever since, which was helping his symptoms until recently. Now, he is exhibiting all the symptoms of Cushings, including the personality and behavioral changes mentioned by some others in this forum. He has become grumpy, lunging to try to nip small children and those who inadvertently bump him when he gets underfoot. He even bares his teeth at us when begging for food. He is now, when not sleeping or begging for food, whining, growling and barking endlessly. He is wearing a diaper all the time when in the house, but still has frequent accidents. He has always had separation anxiety, but now is even more agitated when left alone for short periods, peeing and pooping all over the house. He is showing signs of dementia, barking at the walls, and acting generally confused. His vision and hearing have deteriorated. We have made the difficult decision to take him to our vet tomorrow for euthanasia. I debated whether to have a different vet come to our home, but I decided that ,since Kodi is not frightened going to the vet’s office, and our vet has known him over time, and is very kind and compassionate, that it makes sense to go there instead. We will be in a room where Kodi can be on my lap when the shots are administered.
We have had other dogs put down in the past, and it is always so very painful, but having to figure out when is the right time with this terrible disease has made a difficult decision even harder.
Our vet has commented that we need to take our own quality of life into account, as well as that of our pet, in deciding when is the right time, and I think that is a fair and honest element to consider as well.
I appreciate this forum, which has been helpful to me, and obviously to many others.
Dear Jo Beth,
I am sorry for your loss of Kodi, but it sounds like it was the only way to free him from his suffering. I am glad you were able to say goodbye in a familiar and comfortable setting. I am sure your presence was a comfort to Kodi and hope his passing was smooth and peaceful. I pray his memory will be a blessing to you and stay with you always. Thank you for sharing your story with us. ♥
Ugh this is agonizing to read ! Our 9 year old frenchie was diagnosed w Cushings the middle of December. We did the first test and started medication right away . We did the 2nd test last weekend . The 2nd test came back all in the normal range . He doesn’t seem to be any different now then before we started the medicine. He has been peeing and pooping in the house occasionally over the last month even though he has access to the open dog door 247 . My poor guy just looks miserable most the time. Over the last week days he has had explosive diarrhea . I don’t know if this if just the stubborn frenchie part of him or if he is really just miserable. Even on the medication he still pants a lot and doesn’t sleep a lot either .
Dear Amber,
I am sorry your senior guy is having so much trouble and the medication doesn’t seem to be helping. Without examining your dog, myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions. But I am a bit suspicious that your guy may be experiencing some of the early symptoms of dementia on top of receiving this Cushing’s diagnosis. I know that does not help this situation, but it could be a good thing to discuss with your vet. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Also, you can always request a referral to a specialist if needed. Hoping you can get some answers soon and find the best way to restore your sweet boy’s quality of life.
1. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
2. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
My Lucy is gone a month in one half now due to Cushings. She had most of the symptoms listed above. I could not be selfish and continue to watch her life deteriorate. My house is empty and my heart is broken. She was my “little mommie.”
It’s never easy to let a dog go but I wanted to give her the dignity and respect she gave me. 💔
Dear Rae,
I am sorry for your loss of Lucy. I can only imagine how difficult it is to be without her. You made a loving choice to free her from her struggles and give her the peace she deserved. May her memory be with you always and bring you joy. Bless you. ♥
I am glad to come across this article this morning, my Boston Terrier Kira was diagnosed with Cushings a month ago, although now looking back, I think she has had it for the last year or more. It just has progressed with huge skin problems (which doesn’t seem to bother her) but the excessive thirst and urination is out of control. The last 2 nights, she needs to get up to drink and pee several times a night and is not able to sleep and relax when she has always slept at night well. I am exhausted but I know it’s not about me. I have been trying to control it with natural supplements, but I don’t think they are working. I can’t honestly afford the treatment the vet recommends. Kira also has only 1 eye that has had an ulcer that we’ve been treating for the last 4 months, it just doesn’t want to heal. I know its because of the cushings. I feel the time is getting close but it’s so hard, but I know the kindest thing I can do for her is to let her go when it’s time. Thanks for the information provided here, it helps.
Dear Elayne,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with Kira. I am sorry her health is declining, and she is starting to suffer. It does sound like you will have to make a decision about her quality of life sooner rather than later. I wish there was another way but sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option. Praying for your strength and comfort. Bless you and your sweet girl.
Thank you, after reading your blog today, I made that difficult decision and laid my beautiful baby girl, Kira to rest. Thank you for this post, it is human, realistic and helpful. Although it doesn’t make it easier, I know she is no longer suffering in any way.
Dear Elayne,
I am glad the article was helpful and gave you the guidance you needed. I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to your beloved Kira. Wishing you healing and peace as you continue life’s journey. Bless you. ♥
Man oh man. These comments have me sobbing, partly because I know it is time for my sweet Abigail (we call her Punky) to be pain free, partly because I hate to think she won’t be with me much longer. I have felt it in my heart for the last few weeks that our time is coming to an end, but after 13.5 years, and nearly 6 of those being with Cushings, it feels like one more week won’t hurt and then it’s snowballed to nearly 2 months. She has about 90% of the things listed above going on, with a few skin issues and some dementia like symptoms cropping up at the end of last year. She’s always responded well to all treatments, but with the onslaught of new symptoms I feel it in my heart I am being selfish in keeping her here with us.
Dr. Buzby I greatly appreciate this article, it let’s me know that it is okay to ease her pain and let her finally be free, so thank you.
Dear Ashley,
I am so sorry you are facing this difficult decision for your beloved Abigail. As much as it will break your heart, you are right, it is ok to offer your pup peace and freedom from her struggles. I am glad the article brought you some clarity and comfort during this tough time. Wishing you happier days ahead and may the memories of the good times you shared with your sweet girl always bring you joy. ♥
I’m sitting here reading all your stories with tears rolling down my face.
My Sassy is 14 1/2 years old. She has had Cushing’s for about 3 1/2 years. I have treated her holistically, as I believe in preserving both my health and hers. I am 76 yrs. old and take no medications. I have taken vitamins, minerals and Amino acids my whole life snd retain great health at my age.
Sassy’s water drinking, urination, and now I have seen skin ulcers. She has been licking at the ones she can reach. She still power walks with me and my friends, but the walks are shorter.
I am trying to give my holistic vet a call. He mentioned months ago that a good barometer is that if she has more good days than bad ones, that will be your indicator that it might be time to let her go. This decision is complicated by the fact that I lost my husband 7 1/2 yrs. ago and it was the 3 of us, always together. I heard about how when a senior loses their mate and the dog is the remaining companion, it is like losing the mate all over again when they loose the dog, or the decision has to be made.
I can certainly understand that, as this call to the vet is going to be very hard for me to make.
Dr. Buzby, your above article has given me a clearer prospective. Thank you, for your insights. Strange, I just happened onto your site while Googling some Cushing information. Life certainly throws you some curves.
Dear Daryl,
My heart aches for you with the loss you have already endured. I am so sorry you are now facing this emotional decision for Sassy. I think it is good you are planning to reach out to your holistic vet. They can help assess your girl’s quality of life and guide you along this difficult path. I am glad you found this article and that it offered some insight. I will attach links to other articles with more information on making end of life choices that also contain great advice from other readers. Wishing you strength and comfort as you find a way forward. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
4. Grieving the Loss of a Dog After Euthanasia (& Finding Peace)
I have been reading these articles trying to make the decision if it mollys time to let her go. Molly is my blue healer who has had cushions for over 4 years. We have been able to keep it under control with the vetroyl medication. She also has high thyroid which is rare in dogs. They said they see that in cats. But 2 1/2 years ago she tore her back ACL iwhich he have had her on restriction for bout 7-8 months and medication. She is a little over 13 years old. The past 4-5 months she managed to do something to her back hip. We have been doing chiropractic visits but could not get her past 2 weeks which she has the osteoarthritis. She has been getting adequil shots with labrel shot too to help her walk better since she has been falling a lot now. They just took her off her vetroyl and put her on steroid last hope to calm this down for her. Now we are back to the excessive drinking and urination.. in the past we had seen the obsessive eating but now she’s barley eating.. she has been very picky bout her little milk bone treats which have sat here all day. Her food is from yesterday because she didn’t eat her super last night and so it sat here all day and she finally ate tonight but not all of it. Being off her meds should make her hunger on top of her being on steroids too. We have been getting a lot of mixed signals if it’s time or not. This is so hard to figure out if it’s time.
Dear Laura,
Goodness, this is too much to be dealing with all at the same time! I am so sorry Molly is not feeling well and that her health is failing. Without examining her myself, it is hard to say if now is the time to let go. When a dog nears the end of their life, they enter a “window” of time where choosing euthanasia is a good option. Molly may have just entered her window. If this is the case, saying goodbye may not be an urgent matter but it also could be a loving option. I would rather let go one day too early than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. Please reach out to your vet for guidance and let them give you their honest opinion about Molly’s quality of life. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Wishing you the best as you navigate this difficult path.
1. Signs Your Dog is Dying: A Caring Message to Bring You Peace
2. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
3. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
My daughters Aussie 13.75 years old has exhibited all the symptoms of Cushings. Hair loss,, thirst,, distended belly,, lethargy, weakness.. he cannot get up without he,he, but does get down stairs has collapsed at times.. we have not had a definitive diagnosis. He has had 2 scans but not a more detailed one which is 4-$500. He currently is on a liver pill as his blood work shows elevated levels and off the arthritis for a week and on Gapatin. Neither her vet or mine gas put him on any of the meds specific to Cushings. Just suggested a Chinese herbal. We know his time us coming but would like to try t b at if it would give him some relief .
Dear Tina,
I am sorry your daughter’s dog is facing this difficult situation. Hoping you can find a way to offer him some relief from these severe symptoms and restore his quality of life. Wising you all the best of luck. Bless you and your family.
Thank you for this article, my 11 y/o Staffy Bikkie is booked tomorrow for the vet to come to our home and send her over the Rainbow Bridge. I’m heartbroken so I googled to make sure I am doing the right thing.
Reading your post was perfect, when others see her they say she’s okay, but I know she’s not. The last few days we’ve noticed blood on the floor and tiles, her elbows are hard and cracking, she struggles in the heat which she used to love and her drinking and urination is at a very high level. Her poor belly is so huge, she must be uncomfortable and her breathing at night has become loud and labored. Honestly, I think we waited too long, but she’s so happy when I look in her eyes it breaks my heart to think I’m going to be the one to make her go.
Dear Leah,
My thoughts are with you as you say goodbye to your beloved Bikkie today. I agree, it sounds like letting go is the only way to offer your girl freedom from her struggles and would be a loving act of kindness. I know you don’t want to have to make this emotional decision. But I can’t think of a more selfless act of love than to allow your own heart to break so that Bikkie can find peace and rest. Hoping her passing will be smooth and praying for your strength and comfort. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
Thank you for your comment about your Staffie. I haven’t found much on that breed being prone to Cushing’s, but my old girl (estimated to be around 14) has or has had pretty much every symptom listed for well over a year. I thought her pot belly was from worms from fleas, but I finally got all that under control & she still has it. After further Internet research, I found articles on Cushing’s. My Gypsea Girl shows signs of dementia & her eyes are starting to fail also. Her elbows, feet, & nose are affected with roughness & even extra growths on her paw pads. She has a few spots on her body & slight hairloss at the start of her tail, which I thought was from her itching before. Based on a Forbes article, she’s in stage 3-4. She’s collapsed a few times, doesn’t handle the heat at all (even worse than most Staffies), was urinating in the house in her sleep, has labored breathing & wheezing at times, but yet she still loves to cuddle, sleep, treats, etc. I know the time is close, but hopefully not too close. I just lost my 13 yr old mini-Rex rabbit yesterday. I don’t want to throw money at prolonging the inevitable though. She’s been a superb dog & I’ll never regret adopting her in the summer of 2019. I’m giving her extra treats knowing her end is near. She deserves all the happiness she can get. I’ll be very sad when it’s her time. I hope that you’re fairing well with the loss of your beloved Staffie. Again, thank you for confirming for me that they aren’t exempt from getting what my BF is calling an old age disease. I guess it’s so it’s easier for us to say goodbye.
Dear Krysti,
I am so sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your Gypsea Girl. She is lucky to have found you when she did, and I am certain you made her senior years extra special. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Make the most of the time you are gifted, and I wish you both all happiness and joy during these final days. ♥
Thank you so much for this article. I had to put my sweet Darla a mini Schnauzer down in September. I cannot tell you how hard it was.
She would have been 15 in December.
Darla and I had a special bond. She was my baby girl. She was diagnosed with Cushings 7 years ago. So I feel very blessed after reading this. We battled all of those symptoms she had everyone of them. I gave baths to keep her comfortable and used ointments on her sores.
It really got bad before I put her down. It was like she was getting dementia. She was blind and then lost her hearing. She slept most of the time. I had to keep pads in the hall because of excessive urination. When I put her on the porch she started just going on the porch. I kept telling myself there was more that I could do, but she was getting worse. So on 9/16/23 I took her to the emergency vet and put her down . I sobbed. I was by myself. But the sweetest Vet tech was there. Without her assuring me I was doing the right thing, I just don’t know. Maybe I waited to long. It’s not easy. I wished I would have read this before. I don’t know maybe this will help someone. She went through so much. But she loved her mama. So I tried and tried I was exhausted too, and she was worn out. Again thank you. It even helps now.
Thank you, Anna
Dear Anna,
My heart goes out to you as you work through your grief over the loss of your beloved Darla. What a blessing that amazing vet tech was there to help guide you through the emotional process of saying goodbye. I am glad the article was comforting and offered some peace of mind. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Wishing you happier days ahead and may the memories of the good times you shared with Darla stay with you forever. ♥
Thank you for this article. Our dog Scooby is a 14 year old dachshund and is not even the same dog anymore. He was diagnosed with Cushings disease a few months ago but had exhibited the signs about a year before that. He is obsessed with food constantly crying and begging and never seeming full and drinks bowls of water throughout the day and night and his thirst never seems satisfied. He is having accidents in the house multiple times a day even though he had been let out just a few minutes before. He seems confused a lot when getting off the couch like he had forgotten what he was going to do. He also has cataracts, a heart murmur, and periodontal disease. His belly drags the ground now and you can just see he is not comfortable getting around. He can barely make it in and out of the house and his breathing always sounds labored. It just breaks our hearts to see our first baby decline and not enjoy life like he used to.
Dear Sarah,
I am sorry Scooby’s health is declining so quickly. I can only imagine how emotional it must be to see him struggle and feel like there is nothing you can do to offer relief. It sounds like you are facing the difficult decision of when to say goodbye. Sometimes letting go is the most loving option and the only way to prevent unnecessary suffering. I pray for your strength and clarity as you navigate this difficult path. Bless you and your sweet boy.
Our JR girl is 12 years old and was diagnosed with Cushing’s earlier this year. Her fur is especially thin down her back end while I have noticed her fur at the top of her back and near her shoulders has a yellow tinge to it. She has very little in toys now (she was never one for real hyper play with toys), but it is at zero now. I have a male JR as well and we got them new toys and our girl never looked near them.
She constantly just wants to eat and drink water. She is overweight due to the disease with the pot belly that comes with Cushing’s.
I am looking everyday for signs that she still has quality of life. But as time goes on, I worry that she doesn’t.
Dear Sara,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your senior girl. It does sound like you will have to make some tough choices very soon and I wish I could spare you from that. Praying for your comfort and strength as you navigate this unknown path. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
As I read through the letters above it is nice to know that I am not the only one struggling with this. My 14 y/o mixed breed rescue was diagnosed with Cushings 3.5 years ago. She has done fairly well on the Vetoryl until just recently. We moved to FL and she tolerated the move fairly well, but lately has been having numerous accidents in the house even an hour after we just went out so she could do her biz. I get upset with her even though I know she cannot help it. I am not getting enough sleep as she has me up early in the morning or in the night to take her out. She paces and pants all the time so I have no sign that she needs to go out. Feeling right now that I am approaching that time of saying goodbye. It tears me up as she has been the most wonderful dog. We have an appointment with the vet next week and we will discuss options. Just wanted to weigh in that we all struggle to say goodbye to our pets…
Dear Karen,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult decision for your senior girl. I hope your vet can help guide you through this emotional process and offer their expert advice. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Praying whenever the time comes your girl’s passing will be smooth and peaceful. Wishing you strength and comfort for your heart. ♥
Thank you so much for this article and advice. Our sweet 11 year old English Bulldog Gertie was diagnosed with Cushing’s a few months ago as we started to notice scabs on her skin and her hair falling out. Wanting to sleep all the time and constantly eat were always normal bulldog features that we never thought were an issue. Over the last two months the hair loss and dermatitis’ has spread all over her back, down her legs and is now showing on her face and head. It has broken our heart watching and beautiful girl lose her fur and battle these ugly scabs and scars. She has been on antibiotics and medicated baths for the past few months and at times we feel it works but it just keeps spreading to new areas. She takes meds well and suffers through her weekly baths and at times we see our sweet girl still want to play or go on a short walk but we can see how uncomfortable her skin has made her and the muscle issues increasing. We feel so lucky to have had a Bulldog live longer than expected but when do we make the decision to let her go so she can live a more comfortable life? Not to mention the connection she has had with our 6 year old daughter since birth. What is the final straw that helps us make that decision?
Dear Brady,
My heart goes out to you as you navigate this difficult path. I wish there was something specific I could tell you to watch for, but each case is so different. Is Gertie really living or just existing? Are there still things or activities that bring her joy (like the short walks and playing you mentioned)? If you are looking for more medical treatments to try, I would recommend asking for a consultation with a dermatology specialist. As far as knowing when it is time to say goodbye, I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. I generally think it is better to let go one day to early rather than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. I just don’t know if Gertie fits into the “suffering” category at this point. Have you asked your vet their opinion about her quality of life? Hoping there is still a way to give your sweet girl some relief and restore her health and happiness. Wishing you and your family comfort and clarity in decision making.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Hello. We have an almost 15 yr pug mix (Poe) who has had cushings for 3 years. Almost all of the final stage symptoms started a few weeks ago, with vomit and diarrhea beginning a few days ago. She is tired and has the look in her eyes I’ve seen before saying she is ready. Just looking for any advice. Everything on this page has already been helpful.
Dear Kim,
I am sorry Poe’s health is staring to decline and you are facing some difficult decisions. I wish I could tell you when the “right time” would come and understand how emotional it is to even consider saying goodbye. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Hoping you will find the guidance you need to help navigate this tough path. Wishing you comfort and strength. Bless you all. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
3. Signs Your Dog is Dying: A Caring Message to Bring You Peace
4. In-Home Dog Euthanasia: Heartfelt Answers to 12 FAQs
I find I am crying as I read this page and as I write this because 5 months ago I had a healthy dog, other than the Pancreatitis Bear has, which I am managing with low-fat strict diet. But he was ‘normal’ otherwise, though maybe he had an increase in appetite.
But I traveled away from home for an extended time and Bear swallowed some of the other dog’s toy and had to have emergency surgery. I told them that he had been ravenously hungry lately and they suggested it could be cushings.
Here I am a month after surgery and he’s drinking more water than I noticed before and has had some accidents in the house that he never had at home five months ago and previously.
It’s as if I have a different dog from the one I had at home 5 months ago. He doesn’t seem to have any of the other symptoms other than ravenous appetite, drinking more water, and urinating more but I understand those may be the first signs?
He’s always had a kind of pot belly, so that’s difficult to determine.
He’s a chihuahua mix. Could his cushings have come on over these 5 months I was away from home? Could the abdominal surgery have caused something with his sudden ‘incontinence’ issues? Am I seeing the first signs of Cushings and in denial? He doesn’t seem to have any other of the symptoms – yet? He’s a rescue so age is anywhere 10-11 years old. Thank you for this article.
Hi Kat,
I am sorry you are facing this unknown path and understand why you are worried. What you describe does sound like Cushing’s disease but of course it would require some testing to get a definitive diagnosis. Has Bear had blood work done recently? It would be good to get a baseline of his internal organ function prior to proceeding with other diagnostics. Try not to think the worst and take this one day at a time. Reach out to your vet and give them the opportunity to answer your questions and guide you through this process. Praying for healing and comfort. Bless you and your sweet boy.
we had and have 2 cairn terriers, cagney and lacey. cagney started to drink alot of water and peeing all the time. she was almost 9 at the time. her nose was so dry and she was gaining weight fast. the vet ran tests and discovered cushings disease. the medicine didn’t seem to help her at all. i took her back to the vet for her routine blood work and vet said she was doing fine. that night she started acting strange, whinning drinking alot. i let her outside and she was running in circles and collasped. we rushed her to emergency vet. when we got her there she seemed better when vet checked her. but then it happened again, vet said she had a heart attack and was blind. thats when we decided we didn’t want her to suffer anymore(11-21-21).well here it is 2 years later and our beloved lacey has cushings too. my heart is breaking. i hope medicine helps her for a while. sharo
Dear Sharon,
I am so sorry you are facing this difficult situation with Lacey. I can only imagine the worry it must bring you after all you endured with Cagney a few years ago. I too am praying this time will be different and that your girl will respond favorably to the treatment. Wishing you all the best and hoping for many happy years ahead.
hii..
just posting on the behalf of my parents.. there dog who is nearly 15, has cushings disease, they are calling a vet this week as they feel its the right time for him to be PTS. however they want to know they are doing the right thing.
he is now constantly having diarrhoea accidents around 4 times a day everyday, constantly wanting to eat and drink, hes very distant from us all now, doesn’t like to be fussed anymore.. hes lost majority of his fur on his tail, he’s chewing his feet like mad 😫
I’ve told them it’s for the best but they just want to hear it from someone else.
thank you
Dear Lozzy,
I am sorry you were in this difficult situation with your parents. I hope you were able to find the advice and guidance needed from the articles and comments left by other readers. What a blessing your parents had you to help navigate this emotional path. Wishing you all comfort and peace. Bless you and your family.
Hello Dr. Buzby and thank you in advance for your help.
My dog will be 13 y/o in Ocotber of 2023. She was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease and Diabetes about 15 Months ago. Since the diagnosis she has gone through most of the symptoms related to Cushing’s Disease. For example, excessive drinking, constant urination, constant eating or searching for food, tummy bloating, panting, and many, many accidents with urination.
Lately, since taking Veteryl and Vetsulin because her symptoms have increased, she has lost so much weight that she looks anorexic. She also has alopecia and she is nearly bald as a result. It’s so very tough to watch my best buddy slowly deteriorate. Her vision and hearing have been greatly affected. She often has bloody and loose stool. She shakes a lot and sleeps a lot. I often feel selfish by keeping her with me, but I have to be sure that euthanasia is the right answer. It seems like it would be a gift to her, as her skin seems to itch often and she seems uncomfortable.
Any help would be so great. THANK YOU
Dear CJ,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your senior girl. You are right that sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option and only way to give a beloved pup freedom from their struggles. I always think it is better to say goodbye one day to early rather than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. It is ok to choose euthanasia while there is still some quality of life. I wouldn’t want to wait until all joy is gone and the only thing remaining is anxiety and pain. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. I am hopeful you will find what you are looking for and be able to make the best choice for you and your sweet girl. Praying for your strength as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you both. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
Hi CJ
I feel I could have written your letter almost word for word about my little JRT Tizzy. Another recent side effect is that she has become very bad tempered, mostly when disturbed or “hurt” e.g when she’s gotten under someone’s feet. She’s nipping at our other elderly dog who can’t quite work out what he’s done! I’m struggling to know when is the right time to end her struggles as on some days she brightens up. I really feel your dilemma as it mirrors my own so much.
Dear Tracey,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with Tizzy. I am sorry she is struggling with these worrisome behaviors. Praying for your strength and clarity to know the best way to proceed. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
Hey CJ and Dr. Buzby,
I came across your comment and it’s currently hitting home. Our dog, Nova was diagnosed in March with Cushings. She was eating a lot, excessively drinking water, urinating on herself, and so forth. The vet started her on Vetoryl. Nova has lost 34 pounds and looks completely emaciated. She lays around, eye sight going, the hair the shaved to do ultrasound never grew back. It’s pitiful.
Dr. Busby, is the emancipated state caused by the disease or a side effect of the medicine? Just wondering.
Anyway, CJ I hope your dear buddy is doing better. My husband and I are preparing ourselves to say goodbye.
Hi Cassie,
I am sorry your girl is not doing well, and you are facing some difficult decisions. Cushing’s causes the loss of lean muscle mass and can cause some gain in weight due to accumulation of fat. Vetoryl will help to reverse this fat/weight gain. But once the fat is gone it reveals the muscle loss that the fat tends to cover up. So, in a way, they both contribute to the emaciated look. I will keep you in my thoughts as you navigate this emotional path ahead. Wishing you comfort and peace. Bless you and Nova. ♥
My 14 year old Maltese is diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease as well as chronic kidney disease. He is the sweetest boy ever ever it hurts me so badly to see him deteriorating. He is constantly drinking and needing to urinate and when he does urinate it is a small lake. HE is aways licking the floor, the wall, the crate (if he’s in the crate), licking the food bowls. HE appears confused as to when to eat or it could just be he is always hungry. He has started to have some urine accidents in the house. I was told we got start him on some meds to help with increased thirst, however the meds can be also counterintuitive to the chronic kidney disease portion of his life. What suggests if any could you provide on how to best proceed. Thank you in advance! ~ Kim and Chef (my little old man)
Hi Kim,
I am so sorry you are in this difficult situation with your senior dog. Without playing a personal role in your dog’s medical care it is hard to make specific recommendations. All the symptoms you are describing could be due to worsening kidney disease alone so it is impossible to know if treating the Cushing’s disease would improve them. It sounds like your boy’s health is declining and you may be faced with considering humane euthanasia before too long. If that is the case, then I don’t think it would hurt to try the medication and see if it can help a bit. Whether the medication causes negative side effects or just offers no benefit really won’t change the outcome. But on the chance it could help, it might be worth trying. Hoping Chef will remain happy and peaceful through this process. Wishing you both the best.
My 13.5 year old puggle Molly was being looked after for a heart valve leak. I noted her change in being more lethargic etc and ultimately my girl was recently diagnosed with both cancer (mass cell tumors) and cushings. She basically sleeps as much of the day as she can. In between she drinks a ton of water and is always trying to eat and even takes food right from my son’s hand that he is trying to eat. She has suddenly started to also try to eat human feces. I’m afraid that the diagnosis came and things are going downhill quickly. Is it possible we are nearing the end soon? We are regularly in contact with the vet but I love her so much I can’t tell if we are in the window or if we have time. Anything you can shed light on is helpful. Not much info on this combo of illness.
Dear Maryanne,
I am sorry you are in this difficult situation with Molly. I commend you for closely monitoring her quality of life and think it is good you are reaching out for advice. From what you have described, I am not sure if Molly has entered her “window”, but it sounds like it may not be far off. I will attach links to other articles with more information on how to decide when is best to say goodbye. Molly is a lucky girl to have you advocating for her health and well-being. My thoughts are with you both as you continue on this emotional path.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dog Euthanasia: Knowing When to Say Goodbye
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
My dog just had a LDDS test done and the results were normal. Is there a more accurate test?
My 14 year old doggy just had laryngeal tie back surgery and is acting like he has cushings since then (water!)…. the test fo cushings is negative- but what else could cause an elevated ALK?
He got steroids after his surgery but that is now 2 months ago.
Hi Silke,
I am sorry you are in this difficult situation with your pup and understand your concern. Unfortunately, this sounds like quite a complicated case with so many issues contributing at once. I will attach links to other articles that address some of what you mentioned. Without playing a personal role in your dog’s medical care it is hard to make conclusions and recommendations. It may be a good time to ask for a referral to a specialist. Hoping you can find the answers you need. You are doing a great job advocating for your dog’s health and well-being. Keep up the good work!
1. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications
2. What Does a High ALP in Dogs Mean?
I appreciate the list of symptoms of more advanced Cushing’s to watch for. I have a Bichon appx 14 years (shelter dog, so not sure) who was diagnosed about 6 months ago — after ruling out other stuff. The medication to suppress his adrenal function just made him sleep all the time, so we are doing all the holistic things — all of them, at a pretty high co$t — and doing follow up tests on his urine and blood and cortisol. I feel like we caught it “early” when his only real symptom was that he’d slowed down and developed a pot belly. But I see other symptoms creeping in, while others improve. Right now he has good days and good weeks and bad ones, too. And it’s all tangled up with him being older anyway. He’s promised me he’ll die in his sleep so I don’t have to decide. I am going to hold him to that. 😉
Hi Ann,
I am sorry your Bichon is dealing with the symptoms of Cushing’s disease. I wish I could keep you from having to endure this difficult path ahead, although it seems like you are doing good at keeping your thoughts positive and holding onto hope (your last comment made me laugh). Feel free to keep us updated as time progresses. I am curious to know how you feel about the results of the holistic therapy. Wishing you and your sweet boy all the best. Take care and keep up the good work. ♥
My 7 yr old Boston was diagnosed with borderline Cushings this wk. Her 1st lab result level was elevated, but the following results were at the max of the normal range (1.4). Her liver enzymes were a bit elevated as well. Per u/s her liver and adrenal glands were normal size. However, gallbladder had sludge/debri, and she had steroid hepatopathy. We started her on Ursodiol for the gallbladder and Cush Away for the probable Cushings. She is overweight and will scarf down just about anything. We’re trying to get her to lose wgt with measured food intake, fewer treats, and more walks. She’s only lost 0.4 lbs. I haven’t noticed a big wgt gain or excessive drinking. She’s peed in the house a few times over the last few months despite having a doggy door. She was negative for a UTI. Since she’s “borderline” and “not a slam dunk” per my veterinarian, what can we expect as far as progression goes? Are there any other treatment options we should consider, or maybe even other diagnoses besides Cushings? I keep reading life expectancy is 2-2.5 yrs after diagnosis, but she’s too young for that prognosis. I know this is not a cut and dried situation, and she’s in the “gray zone.” Any advice or opinions would be so appreciated.
Hi Stefanie,
I am sorry your Boston has received this difficult diagnosis. What a blessing your vet was so thorough with the testing and was able to offer some treatment even though your pup is in the “gray zone”. I think you are doing what you can for now and am not sure I have any additional recommendations. Your girl is very lucky to have you advocating for her health and well-being. Wishing you both the best and keep up the good work!
Hello, I have a question. My 15 yr old dog Saphira has just been diagnosed with an adrenal gland mass after an ultrasound was performed to see if she had kidney or bladder stones. She’s been on two different antibiotics for blood in her urine over the last few weeks. The ultrasound showed no stones, but just tonight there’s blood in her urine again. I don’t have the finances to keep getting test after test for her, but I don’t know if now is the time to let her go. She is still playful on some days, but not everyday. I’ve had her since she was 8 weeks old. Thank you for your advice.
Dear Tabitha,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior girl. It is always ok to forgo testing and treatment and opt for palliative care instead. The goal with either option is to make sure your girl is happy and comfortable. With palliative care you are focusing on quality time and not quantity. With that being said, I am not sure if euthanasia is the best choice at this time. It is hard to give advice about when to say goodbye without examining your pup myself. Even if she is not playful, as long as she is happy, pain free, comfortable, and in good spirits, it may be ok to wait a bit longer. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Ultimately, you have to trust your intuition. You love your girl the most and know her better than anyone. Wishing you strength to navigate this unknown path ahead. Bless you both. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dog Hospice Care Can Bring Peace and Dignity to Your Dog’s Final Days
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
I’m waiting for the test results to see if our 10 year old Pomeranian has Cushings. If he does we will provide treatment for him. I read on the internet that the life span of dogs with Cushings is two years. I can’t find if they mean without meds. Do you know?
Currently he is on an antibiotic and anti fungal medication to treat his skin problems.
Do you recommend any books regarding this disease?
Thank you all for sharing your experiences.
Hi Kari,
The 2-year average is with treatment. But this outcome can vairy depending on what medication is used for treatment, if the pituitary is involved, or if it is just adrenal dependent. I am not aware of any books devoted to this topic other than veterinary medical textbooks and we have tried to summarize the most important information from the literature in our articles on this site. Here are links to the two other articles that have been published about this subject:
1. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications
2. Trilostane for Dogs With Cushing’s Disease
Hoping you get the test results soon and can make a plan for how to proceed. Wishing your sweet boy many happy years ahead. Bless you both. ♥
My dog was diagnosed with Cushing 5 1/2 yrs ago at the age of 9 and did very well on trilostane. She is showing final stages now but still wants to go on walks in the morning.
Thank you for the beautiful article! It helped me considerably.
My bichon dog will be 13 years old this Nov and she was diagnosed Cushing 4 years ago.
The symptoms flared up here and there but usually was controlled by the medicine till now.
She drinks and urinates every 1-2 hours, even at nights, her potbelly is getting worse, she is loosing her tail hair, whines all the time and panting.
We took her to the vet and he did all the test he could do in general vet office and surprisingly all test results are in normal range including cortisol level.
I just don’t understand how. Her Cushing symptoms are getting worse but test results don’t show that.
That fact makes the decision harder. Any advice?
Thank you!
Dear Suzanne,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your senior dog. Without examining your girl, myself, it is hard to make specific conclusions. If the Cushing’s seems to be well controlled, then I would suspect there is something else contributing to these issues. Did your vet happen to check a urine sample? Just wondering if your girl could also be diabetic? If you are seeing your dog’s health decline and facing a decision to say goodbye, it might be worth increasing the dose of her Cushing’s medication just to see if it makes a difference. I know that is not ideal, but the risks may be much less than the potential benefits. Hoping you can find the answers you need to guide you in this emotional decision-making process. Praying for a positive outcome. Bless you both.
hello I just found out My 15 yr old Maltese may have Cushing awell as an enlarged liver they want to do the blood test to confirm it’s so expensive I don’t have that kind of money in the last 2 months I have put out hundreds she has every one of the symptoms does that mean she getting close to the end of her life so don’t try and stress myself about money that may not even save her i know it’s my decision but again witj your knowledge of this does it soundl it’s time to prepare myself?
thank you
barbara
Dear Barbara,
I am so sorry your senior girl is dealing with all these issues at once. Without examining her myself, I can’t make specific conclusions about how advanced her disease is or if the additional testing would be worthwhile. I can say that there are many dogs with severe symptoms that see a dramatic improvement once they start treatment for Cushing’s. I think it would be best for you to talk to your vet and discuss your concerns. They can let you know if your dog’s quality of life is poor and if saying goodbye is the most loving choice. If finances are limiting your options, make sure your vet is aware. While it is not ideal to start treatment for Cushing’s without a definitive diagnosis, this may be something your vet would consider just to see if it will help turn things around for your sweet girl. If it doesn’t work, or makes things worse, then you still have the ability to say goodbye if needed. I wish I knew what was best and could help guide you in the right direction. I hope you can find the answers you need to navigate this difficult path. Wishing you both the best of luck. Bless you.
my dog was just diagnosed with Cushings after a long summer of cleaning up rivers in my house. she is now on meds and I’m waiting to see what happens. but the way she looks at me when we go to the vet tells me I could never betray her like that. I guess I’ll just do the work until God calls her. that’s my choice
Hi Jodi,
My heart goes out to you as you take care of your sweet girl during this last season of life. Wishing you both comfort and happiness in the days ahead. Bless you both. ♥
Our sweet boy, Hamilton, who is a maltipoo, was diagnosed with Cushing’s about six months ago. It all started when a couple years ago he suddenly became lethargic, and the vet told us he had autoimmune hemolytic anemia. They prescribed lots of prednisone. He got very heavy and drank water all the time and had accidents. Someone else on these responses said that the prednisone may have brought on Cushing’s. Or maybe underlying Cushing’s brought on the anemia?
Anyway, Hami is almost 8 years old, and while he definitely has many Cushing’s symptoms and is on medication for that (very hungry, very thirsty, pants a lot, potbelly), he does seem happy. Then again, even when he was little (we got him as a one year old from the Animal Human Society), he was very hungry, etc. Maybe he’s always had it?
Lately his symptoms seem to be increasing, despite the medication initially showing his cortisol levels were back to normal. We have an appointment for him in early October to see a new vet and we’re hoping to get some better control over the symptoms if possible. We don’t feel his current vet understands the disease well.
Also, on his right back/haunch area, there appears to be a large bump. Is it possible to actually feel and see an adrenal tumor?
Like I said, Hami seems pretty happy still and we are hoping we have some good years ahead of us. But we are realistic that the future could get tougher. It breaks my heart reading all these messages and my wife and I are thinking of all of you and your cutie pie pups.
Hi Tony and Theresa,
I am sorry Hamilton has been dealing with so many issues over the past few months. Cushing’s disease occurs when the body begins to make too much of its own steroid and the symptoms, we see are due to the steroid affects. So, it is common for dogs that have to take steroids for other problems to develop iatrogenic Cushing’s disease. While I cannot say for sure what brought on this disease in your pup without examining him myself, this could be the case. It is tricky to balance a deadly disease with the side effects of the treatment. Is Hamilton still taking the prednisone? You should not be able to feel the adrenal tumor if one is present (Cushing’s can also be caused by a pituitary gland issue). The adrenal gland is located next to the kidney and is well tucked inside the abdomen. With that being said, it would be good to have the new vet also take a look at the bump and make sure it does not need to be addressed. I will attach a link to another article all about Cushing’s disease that may fill in some of the gaps. Hoping this will help guide you along this unknown path. Wishing you and Hamilton all the best for many happy days ahead.
Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Medications
Thank you for the information. He is not on the prednisone as the anemia stopped. All the Cushings symptoms seemed like holdovers from how he acted during the time he was taking prednisone. They’ve just increased (like the addition of the pot belly, and the panting). I’m really glad he’s going back into the vet here in a couple weeks.
hi I have a Cup Yorkshire terrier Chloe who is 13 .1/2 she was diagnosed with Cushing 4 months ago .
she was very bloated always hungry and drinking alot . sleeping all the time just this week everything has changed. she gone back to her old self. she not on any medication the vet said dont give her any its gone to far just keep her has comfortable has we can . could the Cushing have revised
Hi Susan,
I am glad Chloe seems to be feeling better. Cushing’s is not a disease that goes into remission or resolves on its own. So, I am not sure if your girl is just having a good week or what has happened to improve her quality of life. Consider this as a gift and enjoy the time you have together. Bless you both. ♥
Dear Drs, Buzby and Woodruff,
We appreciate your thorough, informative and compassionate article. Recently diagnosed, our 12 year old poochon is almost back to normal with medication. There is guilt though knowing that right now the cost and the lack of sleep is effecting our own health and fixed income pocket book but she seems to be feeling comfortable. We will thoughtfully consider the points of the article and pray we make the best decision for our Tripper. Thanks again.
Dear Deborah,
Thank you for the kind words. I am glad Tripper seems to be improving since starting the medication. I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and wishing you all the best. Bless you. ♥
My 6 year old Shih Tzu was diagnose cushings at 5 years old. Meds worked for a while, then we recently increased dose but to no avail. My sweet girl is hungry all the time, is always thirst and is now having accidents again even though she gets outside every 4- 6 hours. Doesn’t enjoy walks as she tired easily. Difficulty breathing at night and very potbellied. Heading back to the vet next week . Difficult as she is part of a bonded pair – her sister is full of energy and always wants to play and walk. She is patient but doesn’t want to go on walks without her sibling nor sleep apart from her. She senses something is not right with her sister.
I’m not sure what vet will recommend- so difficult she is only 6 yo.
Hi Victoria,
I am sorry your girl is having so many issues and her health is declining. I hope your vet can give you some guidance and help you navigate this difficult path. Praying your sweet girl can find peace and comfort. Wishing you strength to face each new day.
This disease is horrible, devastating and cruel to both pet and owner. My Oscar developed 2.5 years ago and it was really hard for my vet to “get it right’ as it is a very sneaky quiet disease at first. I spent oodles of $$$$ and tests, ultrasound and she saw sludge leading to gallbladder, enlarged liver, possible enlarged heart and just was getting nowhere. We did every test but the cushings test and I dont know why. He was early stage and it came on suddenly pot belly, starving, panting at night, restless at night could not get comfortable, relax and sleep, finally so exhausted he would just collapse and sleep. My vet sent Oscar to UW Vet School, the best around to have his gallbladder removed. They did not do surgery said it was not that bad but sent me home with medicine (rx) for cushings). So they may have tested him but my vet was pretty confident that it was. He presented with all of the symptoms . The rx showed great improvement first 2 months, then -0-. Not working, symptoms returned, he was not himself. I am so grateful for 2 months of my boy back. The Vet School increased dose, doubled and my vet was concerned as it was a high dose and he being 22 lbs., he was starting to have issues with the lower dose. I did not want him taking as it was making him sick. We did go up for a very short time and it was a disaster. NO. That was last July 2022. My vet gave him 6 months. I refused to believe her and insisted on continuing on, there had to be something!!!! She then said she had 2 clients that used supplement liquid adrenal gland, melatonin and milk thistle supplements. I also had lingnans and a Dr. Oscar supplement. I paid more for the supplements bottles with droppers that I put on food. Pet well being – Adrenal Gold, 2 others. It did help for awhile, maybe till November, then -0- stopped and he was sick of it, did not like on his food. Last resort, my vet had a Chinese herb vet in office and I went that route. They were expensive too but I wanted my baby and I would pay anything to get him back to what he was. Meanwhile, he was not my dog anymore. He no longer slept up by me but at end of bed, I have 2 other little dogs, one his twin brother. They may have alienated him from the pack or he didn’t want anything to do with them and isolated behind the recliner. I would look over at him and he would be on his side, heavy belly go over and pick him up to bring to me on couch,, he loved lying on back of couch. Well, he couldn’t get up there anymore so I would place him there. He did not like it wanted down, did not want to sit on my lap, but did like briefly me brushing him, nope he went to the laminate wood floor behind recliner. I would take over a comfy dog bed, he would get out of it. So I went to him and ay there next to him and put on soft music and stroked him and cried. He knew I was upset. His very favorite was car rides with da boys. 3 doggies countryside. Each had a dog seat. He started staying in the back and one day I pulled over as I thought he was dead, he would not respond. The Chinese herbs helped briefly and then back to -0-. 3rd try different treatments. Then came the worst. He urinated half the bed and could not keep his face out of water bowl. He would drink drink drink and NEVER had accident In our bed. Well, he did. I thought it was a fluke and cleaned all 5 layers and guess what, next night, flooded bed. Diapers were purchased and he did not mind me doing anything to him. Never had never will. He tolerated everything to be with me. He greeted me always at the door when I came home as sick as he was with the other 2. He would lay by the bathroom door as I readied for work. That stopped. With the peeing I took him to vet, did ua test. His numbers off the charts. Diabetes which Cushings finishes them off with. The numbers so high vet did not know if he would live maybe couple days and have seizure, ER visit, death, or diabetic coma. I was to see her Monday, March 27, 2023 to start diabetic treatment. In just those few days I saw suddenly 5 lbs off, no muscle mass at all and could not walk very much , stand. I called my good friend at schnauzer rescue as she had cared for many of my dogs. By the way Oscar was a Maltichon my first NON schnauzer. And his brother Humphrey as well. I told her and read her what my vet wrote me on prognosis. I said, she hasn’t told me it’s time she SHOUTED ITS TIME and yes she IS saying that. You are in denial, WAKE UP, change that appointment on Monday and LET HIM GO. DO IT. it took her talking so firm, ugly at times to me to do what she said. You know why? She has rescued seen it all over 400 schnauzers in her day. She is rough, rude, brass, but a heart of gold. My son who never would ever agree to, said, mom Oscar needs to be free of this awful disease. Let him go and the mere fact that he very well would not tolerate diabetes treatments with HOW sick he was and GO blind. I said enough. I was backed against a wall. I was PISSED OFF. We had lost and he was 10 yrs old. My soulmate and spirit. Done. I changed appt and 3-27-2023 at 2:40 he was released from all anxiety, isolation, depression, sick. I was in such shock I just picked him up put him in car and drove there. No goodbye to other 2 I had to just do it before I changed my mind. Now I feel guilty for not treating to a couple car rides alone, McDonalds, not anything. I didn’t want to see him this way and avoided everything. My vet gave us all the time, I said let’s get out of here after 5 minutes, I feel awful I didn’t stay and hold him awhile. I did when he passed and cried and cried. My last picture is him in my car on console looking out waiting for me. He followed me with those black eyes since day one. My soul mate and I let him down by not showing more love at the end. I was in a robot mode. I am so sorry Oscar I didn’t spend more time with you towards the end, take off work. But I do know and you know you took my heart and I have yours. My left side of chest so heavy at first and hurt. I was carrying you in my heart. Cushings took my joy away, I hate it and for $8000 I said DONE. No insulin shots, tests, etc. DONE. HE has had enough. I will not have him go on with more, diabetes. Your partner in crime, Humphrey (brother) and Huxley the Schnauzer are still grieving. I have to be strong for them so I go out in garage in car and cry. There will never been a dog that had my spirit day one and took my heart. My heart and prayers go out to all of you and to the vets that deal with us/pets suffering. My vet said it is a very tricky disease and that she learned alot from his case. I should have donated him to research as I bet he loaded in tumors, and may have had both kinds. Maybe they would have learned from his body what this horrific disease does. RIP. Oscar “Bruno” . Mama.
Dear Jenny,
My heart aches for you with your loss of Oscar. It is very clear that he was dearly loved, and I am certain he knew. I am glad you were able to be with him in those final moments. Your presence was surely a comfort. I wish I could take your pain away but realize what a blessing it is to have loved a dog so deeply. I hope that as time passes the grief will be replaced with peace. May Oscar’s memory live on and be a source of joy in your life. Wishing all the best to you, Humphrey, and Huxley. ♥
My dog is 16 years old and has all the signs of Cushing. She has lost some weight, sometimes looks sad but once in awhile will play a little. She also has difficulty because she has few teeth left. The Dr wants to do tests to confirm which will cost 300 dollars and the give medicine to help symptoms. What are the chances medicine will even help. She is definitely hard to give medicine to. So many questions. I just don’t want to pay a 300 dollar test and my dog won’t get better except for a very short time. Are most dogs helped?
Hi Vivian,
I understand your concern for your senior girl and why you are conflicted about how to proceed. If your pup does in fact have Cushing’s disease, the medication has a high likelihood of improving her quality of life. Most dogs show a great improvement in their symptoms and energy level once the medication is regulated, and their cortisol levels have stabilized. Wishing you and your sweet girl the best. Feel free to leave an update anytime!
My dear cockapoo, Handsome, will be 16 in January. He has chronic kidney disease with perhaps only a few months left, per our vet. Now comes pituitary-type Cushing’s disease.
He is already taking so many meds, including Xanax for anxiety, and needs subcutaneous fluids and blood work several times a month. The costs are quickly mounting, and funds are not unlimited.
Handsome’s awake a lot at night, causing me to suffer from severe sleep deprivation and putting my health at risk. At almost 70, with several chronic diseases, this is multiplying this risks.
I think it’s time, for all of us. I am crushed.
Dear Patricia,
I am so sorry you had to make this difficult decision for your senior boy. Saying goodbye is never easy but it can be the most loving option. From what you describe, letting go was the only way to offer your boy freedom from his suffering and to restore your quality of life as well. I hope his passing was smooth and peaceful. Wishing you all the best as you continue life’s journey. May his memory be with you always.
We just put our Ollie down this week. i keep wondering if we jumped the gun. He was diagnosed about 14 months ago. He had many sudden lesions and his pad became dry and cracked. We began treating him and he did really well on the compounded meds but then they stopped making them and we switched. His skin and pads remained good but the ravenous hunger and restlessness at night even on melatonin was hard to see. Then the panting and anxiety started the past few weeks. He was a bit snappier around people and hated being left alone but still enjoyed a bit of play and his walks. His breathing at night was becoming concerning, more quick and labored. I hope we did the right thing for him. Its very quiet around here without him…he was a dorgi breed. Smart as a whip, loved TV and eggs and chasing squirrels. I hope we get to see our beloved pets again one day in Heaven.
Dear Michaela,
My heart goes out to you with your recent loss of Ollie. I can only imagine how much you miss him but feel certain he knew how much he was loved. Thank you for being willing to share your story with us. Ollie will never be forgotten, and I pray his memory will continue to be a blessing in your life. Wishing you brighter days ahead. ♥
Thank you Dr. Buzby for taking the time to share your knowledge and advice.
I read a few of the recent comments. Unfortunately though, I was not able to read them all. Reading everyone’s words have given me some semblance of comfort while sleeping beside my baby on the floor, however my heart breaks for each and every one of you. My furbaby (honestly my soul mate) will be twelve October 1st of this year. I rescued him when he was just four weeks old. He is my best friend. I don’t remember the exact date that we (his vet and I) started discussing Cushing’s or when treatment started. His vet was amazing and the process went very quickly. The diagnosis was devastating. But, what’s worse is watching him deteriorate at such a rapid rate. And, I use the word deteriorate instead of decline on purpose, because that is what is happening. I never imagined that this intelligent, well mannered, energetic, gentle being would so rapidly turn into this tired old man who has lost his eye sight (unless he is looking for the water bowl of course lol), is grumpy, falls all the time, begs for human food like he didn’t just have dinner, and only has the energy to bark when my other pups bark. And, two nights ago I think he had a seizure while trying to follow me to my bedroom. It’s gut wrenching and soul crushing to watch your furbaby go through this.
Long story short, thank you not only Dr. Buzby, but everyone else who shared their stories. I have been struggling with how to proceed. I am very “quality over quantity” oriented (I discussed prognosis with my vet at the very beginning), so I have been attempting to prepare my mind for the inevitable. But, I’m not ready.. I don’t want to let him go for selfish reasons. While researching “when to euthanize after a canine Cushing diagnosis” I came upon this website. And, it has helped more than you know. It has also calmed my brain and my heart slightly.
Prayers and love to all who have to endure this tragic diagnosis. Thank you for loving your babies through this when so many would’ve given up on them by now.
Dear Osha,
Thank you for sharing your dog’s story with me. I am so sorry to hear that you both are going through this, but I am glad the blog was able to bring you comfort during this difficult time. My heart is with you and your sweet boy. ♥
My beagle Harley is 12 years old and has Cushing. She’s been on the medication for 8 months now. She was doing well at the beginning of the meds but now she is so thirsty and really hungry. There are times that she is lethargic but suddenly gets up as if nothing happened. I don’t want her to suffer, I’m not sure what else can be done.
Hi Mary,
I understand your concern for Harley and know you want to ensure she is happy and healthy. Have you talked to your vet about these recent changes in her condition? With time, the disease process can change a bit and the body may respond differently. It is possible your girl may need her medication adjusted or her dose increased. I encourage you to have Harley evaluated by your vet. If she is suffering, they will let you know and guide you in the best way to offer relief.
We are going through this right now. Our doxie Fritz is struggling to breathe. He has cushings and diabetes. We found out his heart is enlarged and he has a tumor. His liver is twice the size it should be. This article just helped me reach a decision. It’s about quality not quantity. He is starving and sleeps most of the time. That’s not a good life for a dog. It’s just really hard to set them free but he is struggling.
Dear Lori,
I am so sorry Fritz is struggling and his health is declining. I am glad you found the information and advice you needed to make the best decision for everyone involved. My thoughts are with you as you face this emotional path ahead. Praying for your comfort and that Fritz’s passing will be smooth and peaceful.
I’m so sorry you are going through this. Our dog has terminal cancer and developed Cushing’s from the prednisone in addition recently.
He has become so fixated on food that he has a hard time sleeping and sits and stares at his bowl for hours at a time if I don’t keep him away from it. He will literally be begging for food just minutes after eating a whole bowl, I have to tell him ‘no, not yet’ about 20+ times a day to redirect him from thinking of food.
He even got food aggressive with one of our other dogs which is so unlike him and was our last sign needed it’s time.
We have decided between this and the cancer we need to set him free and have an at home euthanasia appointment set for this Friday. Though absolutely devastated, I have to admit I am a bit relieved that I can feed him a bit more without worry and know that an end is in sight for his mental anguish. His personality and affection has greatly diminished in the past couple of months as well, and we do not want him to just ‘exist’ for us….he is a shell of his former self with just a glint of himself left in his eyes which is honestly this most heartbreaking thing for me. It’s felt like he is already ‘gone’.
We are not even upset that the drugs induced this as they have given him nine more months with us that were relatively good that we wouldn’t have had otherwise. I’m so sorry for your loss, but you are a great pet parent thinking of your pet’s well being first.
We put our beautiful boy down August 16. He was 16-1/2. He struggled his whole life with allergies and hypothyroidism. That was hard enough, but he was tough and healthy otherwise.
In January, his coat began to change. He lost all the hair on his back which turned black. . He started drinking more, was panting regularly, and was always itchy as his body was full of yeast. Pills didn’t seem to be working anymore! He was very sleepy and lethargic, but there were the moments when he’d look and act like a puppy still. It’s those moments that make that decision the hardest, but when 90% of the time, he seemed to be struggling, we knew the time was coming!
We’ve cried for 12 days! We’ll miss him! He was soooo special! His name was Wilson, he was a very handsome Jack Russel.
RIP Wilson ❤️
Dear Heather,
I am so sorry for your loss of Wilson. My heart goes out to you during this difficult situation. Praying for strength and comfort. ♥
Very good article
We put our 14yr old Jack Russell to rest yesterday. It was such a hard decision to make.
Dear Kim,
I am sorry for the loss of your beloved pup. ♥
Doctor, thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thorough and eloquent description of the disease and exactly what we are experiencing.
It really hit me when you said ‘your dog may perk up around others, so they think he’s fine….but you know his day to day is tormenting.’ I couldn’t have described the torn feeling better.
This gave me the insight and reassurance that we are doing the absolute best thing by setting him free on Friday….with a belly FULL of rotisserie chicken since his one last joy is food and we can finally let him let loose. RIP Remy ❤️
Dear Karissa,
I appreciate the kind words about the article and am so glad it offered assurance and comfort as you facet this most difficult decision. I read your other two replies as well and my heart just aches for you and your sweet boy. You are making the ultimate act of selflessness by allowing your own heart to break so Remy can find freedom and peace. Praying for your strength. Bless you both. ♥
Our family is struggling with this decision . We have a 12 year old dashund that has advanced stages of Cushing disease. It’s so heartbreaking. We have read all your articles on this disease & have come to a temporary decision to keep her as comfortable as we can & give her comfort and love one day at a time. Then we feel we will know the best time to make that hard decision . I am grateful we are retired and can be with her until that time comes. Thank you for all the information you provided to help us with this decision 🙏. We will feel more at peace when the time comes.
Dear Betty,
I am sorry you are facing this emotional decision for your senior girl. I think hospice care sounds like a very loving choice, and I am certain this will allow you to make the most of the time you have together. I am glad the article was informative and helped to empower you as you navigate this unknown path. Praying for your comfort and strength. Bless you all.
Our 7yr old cavachon was diagnosed with cushings disease 5months ago… he’s still eating and drinking ok, but his pot belly is just getting bigger and bigger, he just seems so uncomfortable 😔 but on the other hand he can still be lovely and excited wanting to play with his ball, or going out in the car. When will I know is the right time to put him down? Will he lose his appetite and things like that? Thank you.
Dear Rebecca,
My heart aches for you as you face this difficult decision for your boy. Unfortunately, there are no specific signs that I can tell you to watch for. Each dog is different, and the circumstances may vairy with different situations. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Wishing you strength as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you and your sweet boy.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Signs Your Dog is Dying: A Caring Message to Bring You Peace
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
My mixed Chihuahua is only 6 years old with Cushings Disease. My little boy hasn’t had a life at all. I have him on medsnow, but, it’s just so unfair, he hasn’t lived much of his life. My heart will break in half, it’s. amazing how much we love them! He will be sorely missed!
Dear Rhonda,
My heart goes out to you as you navigate this difficult path. Wishing you and your little guy comfort and peace. Bless you both.
Thank you so much for this article and for sharing real pet owner comments of those that are struggling to help their dogs with Cushings. Two weeks ago today we had a vet come to the house to make our sweet Nugget an angel. All last year he struggled with resistant infections on his snout, weakness in his back legs and also weakness in his throat and mouth, to the point I was hand feeding him. He lost so much weight, but he also was diagnosed with IBD in 2020. They kept trying to treat him for allergies. After 9 months of getting nowhere, I insisted on the cushings test and it was positive. For the first 3 months after taking trilostane, we saw improvement in his skin, he no longer gagged on food and water, and he was gaining strength in his back legs, and he wasnt panting as much. Then all of a sudden the restless nights, panting, asking to go outside, weakness in back legs etc. all came back. He was retested and it was confirmed he was on the correct dose. For those struggling with whether to euthanize, for us, it was when we saw no more enjoyment in his eyes. I didn’t mind picking up the poop on his beds, or hand feeding him, since he still wanted to go on 30 minute walks each day and threw a tantrum for his favorite treats. He was still very alert and enjoyed his time with our family. About a week and a half before Nugget got his angel wings, we noticed he would ask for treats but not eat them. He wasn’t eating as much and started refusing even his beloved Nutri-cal gel. He seemed excited when we came home, but could no longer get up to greet us. When his back end collapsed during one of our walks, I knew it was time. That was three of his favorite things he could no longer do. His eyes were glazed and he seemed somewhere else. It was very difficult to not ignore those signs. You don’t want to believe what is happening. God gave me the strength to do what was right for Nugget by ending his pain instead of doing what we wanted, which was just to hold onto him for one more day. May you all find this strength within when the time comes. Only you know when that will be based on your relationship with your dog. Don’t let others pressure you into doing it before you and your dog are ready. But also don’t wait too long if you see the same signs as my dog. We didn’t want him to suffer more than he was already and if we had waited, he would have suffered far more.
Hello Jennifer,
My heart goes out to you on the loss of your beloved Nugget. You did an amazing job caring for him, advocating for him, and monitoring his quality of life. I agree with everything you said, and am so thankful that you took the time to share Nugget’s story and your wise words with us. Thinking of you as you process this loss and remember all the wonderful memories you shared with Nugget.❤️
I find comfort in knowing I’m not alone in this difficult time with my sweet dog. She’s been fighting Cushings so well but is starting to decline much more noticeably, hence how I wound up here. Thank you so Dr. Buzby for normalizing per parents’ feelings, needs, & challenges. I am so grateful for this information & insight.
Dear Maryam,
I am sorry your sweet girl’s health is starting to decline and you are facing this difficult situation. I pray for your strength and comfort and for clarity in your decision making. Bless you both.
My Maltese has cushings disease and heart problems.
The thought of euthanasia has started to creep into my thoughts recently but I keep pushing it away. 😪
However, for the past month I’ve noticed a couple of subtle changes. Restless sleep , eating habits, different bowel movements and now she is off her food and has been vomiting and trembling tonight..
I’m going to my vet tomorrow to get my girl checked and I’m struggling with the thought of euthanasia ….I don’t know what to do 😪
Dear Karen,
My heart goes out to you as you navigate this difficult path. While saying goodbye may be the best and most loving option, there could also be a treatment that would help to restore your sweet girl’s quality of life. I hope you have a positive experience at your vet visit today. Praying you get the answers and advice you need to make a decision with which you can be at peace. Bless you and your little pup. ♥
We put our dog down a few days ago. She had Cushings and diabetes. We had her for 12 years. This is a sorrow I have never felt before but this was the best decision the vet said both are hard to treat. My husband and myself are still crying and feeling the pain of this loss.
Dear Bev,
My heart goes out to you as you grieve the loss of your sweet girl. I am so sorry you had to say goodbye but glad you were able to offer her freedom from her suffering. I am praying for your comfort and peace for your heart. Bless you. ♥
Two and a half years ago my little beagle Evie was diagnosed with Cushings. It seemed like time sped up greatly and six months later I had made an appointment to have her euthanized.
She was only ten years old when she started falling, would go through water and food all day long, and have to go out in the middle of the night.
Because she was only ten years old when she passed I have struggled with two questions. Did I do it too soon and did I do enough for her. After reading this article I now know that I did everything I could for my little girl and that it was the right time and any time would have been too soon for me. I will rest more easily and my heart and mind are at peace now. Thank you so much for this article. I don’t know if you realize the peace you will give to so many. Blessings to you!
Hi Heather,
So sorry for the loss of Evie. It is clear from your post how much you loved her and what a special part of your family she was. I’m so thankful that the article has helped you find peace and feel confident that you made the right decision for her at the right time. Thanks so much for sharing her story, and for your kind words about the article. That means so much to us! ❤️
I found this as I am devastated and grieving the loss of our cushing’s dog who came down with pneumonia. The vet felt this the kindest option. I’ve been inconsolable. I miss him so much. He was diagnosed in 2021, and the drugs really did not seem to help him. It’s a frustrating disease. He was the sweetest dog and I am never going to be the same without him.
Dear Jenn,
My heart aches for you with the recent loss of your beloved pup. You made a loving choice to give him freedom from his suffering and I am certain he knew how much you cared. I hope with time your heart will heal and may his memory be a blessing in your life. ♥
We are at that exact point today. Husband and I are in tears. Ultrasound revealed “large mass” ( what that means in a 30 pound terrier ?) on adrenal that is “invasive” so surgery not an option. Our Daisy is 15, Has not been herself for like at least 6 months. Hard time with stairs, peeing and pooping all over the house, panting like crazy – drinking so much water. I don’t know who is suffering more – her or us – because she is such a good dog – doesn’t bark or cry with complaints. Hates the vet. Had to be sedated for the ultrasound. Nobody can recommend euthanasia – it’s up to us.
Dear Melissa,
My heart aches for you as you face this most difficult decision for Daisy. From what you describe it does sound like she is suffering and saying goodbye may be the only way to offer your sweet girl freedom and peace. Praying for your strength and wisdom as you navigate this emotional path. Bless you. ♥
My sweet baby girl is 12 and was just diagnosed last week. Within that time span she has stopped eating completely, can barely stand by herself, and is so weak she has diarrhea and just sits in it. We only found out after she went in for her yearly shots and the vet noticed some tell tale signs of cushings. I hate to see her suffer like this, but I also don’t want to give up on her. This article has made me feel a little less pressure on making the hard decision to let her go.
Dear Kelli,
I am sorry your senior girl is struggling, and her health is declining. I know this decision you are facing is difficult and very emotional. I am glad the article offered some comfort and advice. Wishing you both peace as you navigate this unknown path. ♥
My little Johnny is a Maltese 11 years old. was diagnosed about a year and a half ago with cushion’s disease. It’s breaking my heart to watch what it does to him. He’s on medication and it’s hard to know what exactly to do He gets around fine He does want to eat all the time and he is drinking a lot more than he used to and he has gained a lot of weight The medication for a while seem to be really helping but I don’t think it’s helping as much now. He started panting a lot and it upsets me because I want to make sure he’s getting enough oxygen. I’m at a point where I don’t know exactly what to do. I loving so much he’s like my little boy. But I don’t want him to suffer. He still has energy and can still climb the steps to our bed . His fur and skin are fine He’s not being affected in that area. It’s the constant panting that really upsets me.
Hi Gina,
I can understand your concern about Johnny. It sounds like his Cushing’s symptoms (especially the panting, increased thirst, and weight gain) are getting worse, which can be very upsetting. Has he been to the vet recently for a recheck? If not, this might be a good place to start. While not always the case, if his cortisol levels are too high, it is possible that a dosage adjustment of his Cushing’s medication could help control his symptoms. However, as discussed in the article, these symptoms could also mean that he is approaching the end stages of Cushing’s.
I hope you are able to find some clear answers on how best to proceed with Johnny. Thinking about you as you face some potentially difficult decisions.❤️
Our American bulldog was diagnosed with Cushing disease 7 months ago and just turned 13. He has had trouble with mast cell tumors and allergies his whole life. He is now frequently having accidents in the house, panting and pacing a lot at night and vomiting about once a week. He has also become very weak in his hind legs and has multiple skin lesions as well as tumors. I fear that the time has come to let him go but my husband isn’t there yet and doesn’t agree. This disease is a nightmare for both dogs and pet owners and it’s tortuous having to make a decision to say goodbye to this goofy, lovable dog. My heart is broken.
Hi Laurie,
So sorry to hear that your sweet bulldog is struggling with the effects of Cushing’s disease and you are having to wrestle with the decision of when to euthanize him. I hope you and your husband are able to find unity and peace in whatever decision you make. Thinking about you in this difficult time. ❤️
It feels so validating to know others are struggling with watching their baby go thru this.. I’m likely making the tough decision tomorrow and giving him a few more days of love and as many treats as he wants ):
Dear Caleb,
My heart goes out to you as you make this emotional decision for your boy. You are not alone, and I appreciate you being willing to share your thoughts with us. Praying for your strength and comfort. Bless you and your pup.
Omg I really feel your pain. I have tears in my eyes. I am in an identical position with my girl. I’ve got a sinking feeling in my stomach.
I wish you well , cherish your memories and photos.
My little miniature pinscher is struggling with this disease as well. I am so heartbroken. I don’t know when is the best time to euthanize her. I don’t want to let her go but I also don’t want her to suffer anymore. I’m am so sorry 🥲
Dear Tina,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your little pup. Praying you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for you and your sweet girl. Wishing you strength and comfort. ♥
thinking about all the parents and beloved dogs on here ill pray for you to have peace
My heart goes out to you and your dog. We are going through the same issues. Our dog
Is 15, Cushings since May 2020. So skinny now, won’t eat her food, only some treats.
We called vet to come to house for ‘end of life’. It is so hard, crying a lot,
Take care and know you are in a lot of peoples thoughts and prayers.
Dear Bonnie,
My thoughts are with you as you navigate this emotional journey. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
my little boy is 13 (mini doxi) just diagnosed this year,I’m scared for him,it’s his personality that I notice, facial tics, very wine, clingy , has moments of energy then nothing, I make his food ,roast beef pork tenderloin, veggies treats, I’m 71 and only on pension, I’m finding it hard financially, vet bills this year so far over1,000$,he has majour fowel allergy what can I feed him to still maintain him without the extra expense of meat as it is so expensive,
Hi Dian,
I am so sorry you are in this difficult situation with your senior pup. I am not sure there is a good way to continue making his food yourself without including meat. Dogs were not meant to be vegetarians and need meat protein in their diets. Is there a reason you are trying to avoid a premade dog food? This could be the most cost-effective way to ensure he is getting a diet that is nutritionally complete and avoid the ingredients he is allergic to. It may be helpful to talk to a veterinary nutritionist and they can offer guidance on what can be used in your home cooked diet that works for your budget. Hoping you find the answers you need to make the best choices for your sweet boy. Bless you.
When the seizures increased in frequency & severity for us…. Wish we had let her go a little earlier than we did. heartbreaking disease.
13 years ago I got 2 Shih Tzu’s from the same litter. One passed at age 6 of congested heart failure. Which now I think was probably Cushing, but my vet at the time was treating her for a Neurological problem. Now at age 13 her sister has all the symptoms of Cushing. She has a terrible cough, scratches her chest and head constantly, bites her paws and legs where there is no hair. Her chest also is hairless and the skin is rough and sore. She always wants to eat and even though I use extra large pee pads they still run over and I go thru 4 to 5 a day. She sleeps most of the time, day and night. She shows advanced signs of Cushing and maybe that unpleasant time has arrived. I will hold her during the procedure so she is calm and knows I still love her very much till her last heart beat. Then I’ll cry my eyes out for a few days. Then I’ll get another puppy. 🙂
Hi Don,
My heart goes out to you on the impending loss of your dog. The end stages of Cushing’s disease can be so hard, so sometimes the kindest, most merciful decision is to set them free from their pain. I have no doubt that she knew how much you loved her. Thinking about you as you grieve her loss and welcome a new puppy to your family.
i have a 9 yr old being diagnosed with Cushings. According to what I have read she is stage 3 with panting, thirsty pot belly, liver mass. Vet wants to run more test to medicate for quality of life. Reading might get 2 yrs and high costs. Do not won’t her suffering or going into diabetes. She is very high anxiety driven. woukd like some advice.
Hi Laura,
I understand your concern for your senior girl and all the issues that come with a diagnosis of Cushing’s disease. I am not sure I am clear on what options you are considering. Have you started her on medication to treat the Cushing’s? It might be worth a trial run to see what benefit it offers. You might be surprised at how much it improves your pup’s quality of life. Of course, if the treatment is not an option or your vet thinks your girl is suffering, then euthanasia may be the most loving choice. I wish I had better advice or knew what the best next step would be. Hoping you find a way forward and your sweet girl can find peace.
Gosh it’s so hard…. Pi is 16, Wants to eat all the time, pees a lot,, drinks a lot, her muscles are weak now. She lays on her side and can’t get back up many times, I’ve made appointment for lady to come to my home on Saturday.. I need to remind myself she has had a wonderful life and quit beating myself up!!
🙏🐾🐾 Thank you for article!
Dear Becky,
I am sorry for your loss of Pi. I know the decision to say goodbye was very emotional but came from a place of love. I am glad you were able to have a vet come to your house so Pi could stay where she was most comfortable. Hoping her passing was smooth and peaceful. May the memories of all the times you shared be a blessing in your life.
Your article has helped me so much with my decision. My baby has no happy life at this point and has a ravenous appetite — begs and begs for food. A new medicine has taken that away and now he has no appetite but fights me when taking the pills and has diarrhea and throws up. I have felt so guilty about putting him down but it has been very hard for me too as he cannot go up the stairs anymore and I have to carry him. I take him out to pee and then he come back in a sleeps the day away in his bed. It is very sad.
Dear Sandy,
My heart aches for you that you had to make this emotional decision for your sweet boy. It sounds like letting go was the most loving choice and the only way to offer him peace and rest. I am glad you found the advice and support you needed from the article and other readers’ comments. Praying your heart will find comfort and be blessed by the memories of the good times you shared.
Thank you for this compassionate article. Our 13 year old was diagnosed a year ago. Along with other senior conditions he is declining. I have been telling myself today is not the day but I am aware it will be soon. Until then we will try to provide his best life.
Dear Sandy,
My thoughts are with you during this emotional time. Praying you will know what is best and wishing you both comfort and peace.
This article is great. My dog is 11 years old and was diagnosed a few months ago with diabetes, blind very quickly and then with cushings. He was on 30mg of Vetoryl which caused diarrhea and vomiting, so it was decreased to 10mg. But he just doesn’t want to eat, not himself, just breaks my heart. The only way I can get him to eat at all is to blend and feed through a syringe but now he fights that. He hears the blender and hides under the table for fear of what comes next, giving him the capsule is traumatizing to both of us. I’m still trying to grasp that I may have to put him down. I just lost my 13 year old dog 14 months ago. my dogs are like my babies. My heart is broken. This article has helped some but I’m still not wanting to let him go yet. Prayers that I do the right thing.
Hi Phyllis,
My heart breaks for you. Losing one dog 14 months ago and now dealing with diabetes, blindness, and loss of appetite in your other dog is so distressing. It is clear that you love him dearly and that you are doing everything you can to help him, including trying to get him to eat. While some dogs willingly eat out of a syringe, and it sounds like it was going well initially, your dog might be telling you that he doesn’t want to be syringe-fed anymore. I’m confident that you will be able to figure out what the best thing is for him, whether that is continuing to push on with treatment or letting him go. Praying for you as you wrestle with these difficult decisions and face the potential loss of your dear boy.
Thank you so much your article has really helped to understand what’s happening and when the time maybe right to do the kindest thing … my mums dog has this disease and I can see the last few weeks she is starting to go down hill she is like my dog to I had 3 myself and lost one in January that was so hard and now I can see we are possibly going to lose maddie to. I can see she is starting to really have a poor quality of life and I will help my mum to maybe see the time maybe near. We will all be with her at the end but thank you again I have forwarded this article to my mum.
Dear Sharon,
I am sorry your mother’s dog is nearing the end of her life. I am glad the article was helpful and offered some guidance on how to navigate this difficult path ahead. Praying the conversation with your mom will go well. Wishing you peace and comfort. ♥
This was such a helpful article, and really comforted me. My sweet 14 year old cavoodle Willow was diagnosed with Cushing’s about 2 months ago. Medication is helpful and I’m seeing some improvements and more brightness in herself.
The part that extremely helpful for me was the paragraph on ‘knowing when it’s time’ and the comment about others telling you she ‘has more time’.
Willow’s sister Lucy went to sleep 4 weeks ago,
I took her to the vet because she had started coughing, and wasn’t really herself. She was “ok’ at the vet, seemed fine. However the x-rays indicated she was not fine – and we discovered tumor in her lung was impacting her breathing. So the vet told me ‘it was time’ and she went to sleep on my knee.
I was in a daze – I remembered her the day before running to meet me, cuddling up, getting her toy out.
I didn’t remember the coughing, or lack of energy, or panting and restlessness, until I was reminded by family.
After days and days of profound guilt and anguish thinking I’d ‘killed’ her family reminded me of her last few days, and when my mum told me that the vet would never have said ‘it’s time’ if there was any other option, the guilt and anguish left, almost immediately.
I was left with deep and heartbreaking sadness and grief, which was true and necessary. I sat with it and moved through the days knowing it was a process.
Now, a month later, I am sad and I miss Lucy terribly, but I am comforted knowing she went to sleep on the knee of the one she loved and who loved her beyond measure.
Hi Belle,
I’m so sorry for the sudden loss of Lucy and for Willow’s Cushing’s disease diagnosis. What a difficult and heart breaking few months. I’m glad that the article and the words of your family were able to offer some measure of comfort and clarity during the days following Lucy’s death and that you were able to be with her at the end. As you so wisely said, grief is a process that you have to move through. I hope that in the days to come, you can continue to draw comfort from the great memories you have of Lucy and the love you shared.
This is so so helpful. Matea was diagnosed with Cushings disease 4 years ago. These past few months she has been declining, vet is trying to adjust meds. etc. but I can see that she is not the same Matea and my tiime with will be ending soon. This has truly helped me know that I will know the right time.
Dear Sharon,
My heart goes out to you as you navigate this emotional path. I am glad the article offered some guidance and comfort for your heart. Wishing you and Matea joy in each day you are gifted. Bless you both. ♥
I’m having such a tough time deciding on the next step with my nearly 15 year old Golden mix. I’ve had her since she was 8 weeks and she’s been my best friend. Diagnosed with Cushings almost 2 years ago, she’s on Vetoryl , but the symptoms are getting so bad (panting, hunger, thirst), combined with onset of dementia, every day seems worse, I don’t think we can always see the true decline because we cling to one good day. Your article and insight was spot on, and thank you, and I know I’ve got to put her first, but it’s still so hard deciding when is the right time.
Hi Donald,
My heart breaks for you. It is so hard to decide when it is time to set our beloved dogs free from the confines of their frail bodies. I hope you were able to find clarity and peace with whatever you decided and that you can look back with joy on all the wonderful memories you made together over the past 15 years. Thinking of you!
Thank you for this information. My heat breaks for my 8 year old Dachshund that was diagnosed with Cushings about 1 1/2 years ago. She takes medication daily. She has struggled with constant UTI’s, skin infections. I. The past two weeks she is drinking 6 or more bowls of water daily and very large amount of diluted urine. Her vet is treating her for yet again a UTI. I have seen zero improvement after taking the antibiotics for over a week. My gut tells me that her Cushings is worsening. I don’t know what to do. I can’t get my vet to speak to me about timing of letting this precious baby of mine go. Your article has been the best information that I have read. Thank you so much.
Dear Vicky,
My heart aches for you as you face this emotional decision for your senior girl. I am glad you found the article to be helpful and comforting. I will attach links to other articles with more information that may help guide you through this process. I pray for your strength and peace for your heart. Bless you and your sweet pup.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Signs Your Dog is Dying: A Caring Message to Bring You Peace
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
4. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
I have a 7 year old King Charles Spaniel, and he has had Cushings for a couple years now, but just recently was it detected in his blood. I had taken him to the vet a couple times, knowing something was wrong. They did blood tests, echos, etc, but it didn’t show up then. He had ALL the symptoms of Cushings! But he still runs for a ball, not well though. He eats and drinks ravenously and is hungry all the time, he tries to fight the other dogs for food. I have him on antibiotics for the skin sores, they don’t seem painful to him. I don’t know how much he is suffering. I have put down several beloved dogs in the past, so I can do this. I just don’t know when. We are on Trilistane, just waiting to see how much it helps. So sorry for you guys who already had to face the decision. I know it’s SO hard.
Hi Carolyn,
Those difficult-to-diagnose Cushing’s cases where the symptoms are there but the tests don’t support the diagnosis at first are challenging for everyone. I’m glad that you were finally able to get some definitive answers and get him started on Trilostane. Often, trilostane can make a huge difference in managing a lot of the symptoms, so hopefully that is the case for your dog too! As you work on evaluating his quality of life, it may be helpful to sit down and make a list of what you think “good,” “bad,” and “ok” days look like for him specifically and then start tracking them on a calendar on the refrigerator. Or you could take a look at his current symptoms and set a threshold in your mind that would indicate that things are improving (e.g. no longer fighting the other dogs for food or drinking less water). Sometimes using those sorts of measures can be a good way to determine if it is time to let him go or if you should keep going. I hope you were able to find clarity and that he responded well to the trilostane!
my 9 yr old cavachon was diagnosed with cushings 1 yr ago went thru all the symptoms thirst, frequent urinations, total hair loss, pot belly ,weight gain. Now he is on many meds, lost some weight, hair has grown back even fuller & thicker than ever, sleeps most the time. no appetite .looks for places to hide his head now & small places to sleep. spent more $15,000. but I can’t let him go will he be in pain eventually?
Dear A Gloria,
My heart goes out to you as you facet this difficult situation. It is hard for me to assess your dog’s quality of life and make predictions about what the future may hold without examining him myself. I recommend you talk to your vet about your worries and concerns. They may be able to offer better advice. How is your pup feeling today? Wishing you both the best and bless you.
Our elderly little Chihuahua mix was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease over a year ago. He’s done pretty well (lab work shows the disease is well controlled with medication), but we definitely struggle with his appetite and begging for food. We had him on fresh food (Farmer’s Dog) but he seemed hungry all the time. We recently tried Hills Metabolic formula at the suggestion of our vet, but he didn’t like it and would refuse to eat. It was heart breaking to see him get excited about food and then turn away disappointed. Now we’re trying to find a balance mixing Farmer’s Dog and Hills Metabolic to see if we can find a sweet spot to keep him happy and full. It’s not an easy condition to live with, and we want so badly for him to be happy.
Hi DeAnna,
I am sorry to hear that your little Chihuahua mix was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease. It sounds like you are doing a great job trying to help him navigate his appetite and this disease. Thank you for working so hard to find that sweet spot so he can be happy. Praying for strength and healing for you both ♥
I lost my dachshund 3 years ago to cushings and my mini schnauzer was diagnosed with it about a year later. There are more severe symptoms with my schnauzer, I’m making an appt with my vet to discuss end of life care. He has a lot of confusion lately and he’s started nipping me which he’s never done before. I didn’t experience these symptoms with my dachshund though. This article really helped me understand what he’s going through. He has an insatiable appetite also, sleeps 20 hours out of the day, he is very hard to wake up at times and is very confused for about 30 seconds after waking up. He also has a wound on his back that hasn’t healed in 6 months even though he’s been medication for it. Nails are brittle and break a lot and he gets constant eye infections. It breaks my heart., he’s 13 years young.
Hi Lindsay,
My heart goes out to you. It is so difficult to watch the same disease take a toll on two of your beloved dogs at different times. I know it must have been incredibly hard, but I think it is very wise of you to make an appointment with your vet to talk about end-of-life care. I hope that appointment brought clarity and peace, and that you can find comfort in knowing you are doing a great job caring for and advocating for your sweet pup.
Thank you for the page on When to put your Dog down. I’m not sure if it helped or confused me, but it did lead me to consider it soon. My big girl is 12 1/2 years old, her name is Randi and I have had her since she was 8 weeks old. She was diagnosed with cushings about three years ago and has been through every symptom. Yesterday she began a struggle to pick herself up with her back legs. She did get up a couple times and went out to potty. This morning I had to feed her in her bed. She couldn’t get up. I contacted her vet who will be there in the morning.. I’m not sure I’m at a place to euthanize her. The pain is too fresh for me. She is not in pain. I think I’m just asking for advice. Her vet will tell me more tomorrow.
Thank you,
Linda
Hi Linda,
I’m so sorry to hear that Randi was getting weaker and became unable to get up. It is so heartbreaking to watch our beloved dogs struggle and to be unsure how best to help them. I hope you were able to find some clear answers at the vet visit and that you have a sense of peace about whatever the outcome ended up being. It is clear that you love Randi greatly and that you are taking wonderful care of her. Thinking about you in this difficult time!
This is the best article to date that I’ve read. I’m struggling so much with my precious dog right now. This article is so so good even down to how Cushings impacts owners too. I can’t thank you enough for this..
Dear Jane,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your pup. Praying you will have clarity in your decision making and can navigate this unknown path. Bless you both. ♥
I am so glad you found this helpful ❤️ Sending lots of hugs your way!
Dr Dawnetta Woodruff
My Riley will be 15 in October, she has had Cushing since 2020. Most of her day is spent sleeping, she doesn’t even walk her tail anymore. I feel selfish keeping her but then think what if it’s to soon. What if I put her down and it’s a mistake. Tbh some days I wish she would pass in her sleep.. I know that sounds horrible.. I just love her so much, I don’t know what to do.
Hi Luisa,
I am sorry your senior girl’s quality of life is declining. It sounds like she is in that window of time where it would not be wrong to consider euthanasia and making a decision early may prevent unnecessary suffering later on. If Riley is not finding joy in her days, she may be struggling mentally more than you realize. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Praying for comfort and strength. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dementia in Dogs: When to Euthanize Your Beloved Senior Dog
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Exactly what I said. It addressed every area of question and concern better than I have EVER seen. The first article to confirm my feelings that our dog was feeling tormented daily feeling hungry all the time, and it was time to set him free of the mental anguish although others see him ‘eating, drinking, moving and wagging his tail so he should be ‘fine’ to keep going in their opinion’. We needed this help to put into words what we are experiencing and feeling and to alleviate the guilt of euthanizing an otherwise healthy ‘seeming’ dog.
Our bulldog was diagnosed 6 months ago , I thought the medication will help , however , she is wasting away. She’s not the same Lucy. I felt tonight the time is close to make a decision 😢
Dear Teri,
My heart goes out to you as you face this most difficult decision for your sweet girl. Wishing you comfort and strength. Bless you both.
My 16 1/2. Year old dog has advanced Cushings, he sleeps all the time and when awake he just drinks water, but he doesn’t seem to be in pain. He now wears a nappy at night as he has lost bladder control . He doesn’t want to go for a walk, he is just existing. But, I love him so much I don’t want to make the difficult decision too early.
I am sorry to hear about your sweet boy and his Cushing’s disease. What a difficult situation to be in. It is so hard to watch our senior dogs get older. It sounds like he has had a very long life at 16 1/2 years. I hope your veterinarian can help you navigate this hard time and decision. Praying you and your special boy can find peace and comfort.
Thank you so much for your article! It truly helped me to understand more about Cushing’s. And our sweet, Reggie, a 16 and a half year old Tibetan Terrier, had advanced symptoms. We had been getting up with him 2-4am most nights for him to pee, walk, drink his water, for last several weeks . . . And the night before we had him put to sleep, he whimpered and cried himself to sleep! I decided it was time!
We were selfishly holding onto him, and I couldn’t bear it any longer watching him suffer. Your article reinforced my feelings. Thank you!
Hi Debbie,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Reggie. It is obvious from your comment that you were very devoted to him and his care. Thank you so much for being there for him and sharing your story with me. I am happy that my article could bring you some peace and comfort during the difficult time.
Hi so I have a 11 year old boxer Rottie mix that was diagnosed with Cushing’s about a month ago and it seems to be getting worse hes been drinking a lot of water and chewing and licking him self and has an infection on the middle of his back and he on meds and medicated shampoo but I feel that its not helping him hes my husbands dog and we all love him so much. I feel like I wont be able to make the right decision for him I feel its time but then again I don’t feel its time. I don’t know what to do right now I feel like I’m failing him if I make the decision to put him down.
Dear Shasha,
I understand why you are conflicted about when is best to say goodbye. This is such a tough decision, and the emotions can run high. I always think it is best to let go one day too early rather than one day too late and allow unnecessary suffering. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great comments from other readers. I am certain you will find the advice you need to make a decision with which everyone can find peace. Praying for your strength as you navigate this hard road ahead. Bless you all.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
4. Grieving the Loss of a Dog After Euthanasia (& Finding Peace)
my baby is 13 our vet is pretty sure she has Cushing she has a skin infection and constantly scratching and biting herself ,drinks constantly and does huge amounts of wees very restless I know I have to make a decision however I feel horrible as I just can’t afford the tests and treatments I am so scared of doing the end of life thing too soon yet I think it must be hard on her the symptoms were there for months and I feared going to the vet to hear the news I have made hard decisions in the past the this is the hardest of all she has been my closest most trusted friend I adore her
Dear Marilyn,
My heart goes out to you as you face this most difficult decision. I can understand why it is hard to know what is best. Don’t forget you can lean on your vet for support, and they can offer guidance as to when is the best time to say goodbye. I pray for your strength and comfort. Wishing you and your senior girl peace. ♥
thank you so much for this page. I had my dog put down today as he had advanced Cushings. He was 14 yrs old. Today is one of the hardest days, but the information you have provided together with my wonderful vet reassures me, I have done the right thing.
Dear Helena,
I am sorry for the loss of your senior pup. Praying for healing and comfort for your heart.
Thank you so much for your post! My 13.5 year old miniature dachshund with Cushing’s now drinks and urinates constantly it seems. She’s had it since we adopted her 2.5 years ago. She also has newly discovered bilateral adrenal masses, elevated BP, and a new lytic lesion on L2. She isn’t a surgical candidate, and we decided against XRT. She still seems comfortable, wags her tail, but seemed to have slowed down a touch. So, it is hard to know when the time is right to euthanize her for her quality of life.
Dear Ellis,
I am sorry your senior girl is nearing the end of her life, and you are facing this difficult situation. I am glad you found some helpful information and advice from the article and other reader’s comments. Wishing you strength to face each new day and wisdom in your decision making. Bless you both.
hello. I have a 12yr old bichon called Alfie. for the last year or so he has had symptoms of Cushing’s. Excessive panting, drink and peeing. big appetite too. I had him tested for Cushing’s and diabetes. he was clear for both. this has continued but has gotten much worse in the last few weeks. he is now drinking constantly and peeing gallons.
A few nights ago he had 5 seizures during the evening and night. I brought him to vet in the morning. he now also has a huge pot belly. his bloods showed elevated liver enzymes. The SpG in his urine was low. he had an ultrasound. his liver is enlarged but no tumors and the rest of his organs look ok.
he had the ACTH blood test this morning.
my big dilemma is the fact he is getting me up at least 3 times a night to go out to pee. he also drinks a full bowl of water each time. ( vet said not to restrict his water due to the seizures).
I’m absolutely exhausted and don’t have help. If he does have Cushing’s, will the medication stop the excessive drinking and peeing.
he has been my constant companion for 12 yrs and the thought of loosing him is unbearable but my health is also important ( I have multiple autoimmune conditions)😭😭
thanks
Dear Sandra,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your senior guy. I know you want to do what is best for Alfie and sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option. I can only imagine how hard this must be as the sole caretaker for your pup. Caregiver fatigue is real, and I agree that your quality of life matters too! If Alfie has Cushing’s, then treating it may offer some improvement with his symptoms. But some dogs don’t respond well to the medication, and we don’t see the benefits as hoped. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for you and your sweet boy. Bless you. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. When Caring For A Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Pet Caregiver Fatigue
3. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages