Two causes of urination problems result from abnormal production of adrenal hormones. Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is due to an overabundance of adrenal hormones. Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is the opposite, and adrenal hormonal deficiency. Either will cause elimination problems.

Cushing's disease is also called Cushing's syndrome. When this disease occurs, the adrenal glands atop the kidneys produce too much cortisol (a form of cortisone.) The most common cause is a pituitary brain tumor that secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in large amounts. The ACTH stimulates the adrenals to overproduce cortisol. Another cause of Cushing's disease might be a tumor in the adrenal gland that causes it to secrete extra cortisol.

At risk for Cushing's disease are dogs that have been treated with corticosteroids. These drugs are often prescribed for dogs with allergies and inflammatory conditions. This type is referred to as iatrogenic (meaning "doctor-caused") Cushing's disease. Several breeds have a hereditary tendency to develop hyperadrenocorticism. They are the Boxer, Boston Terrier, Dachshund and Poodle.

SIGNS of CUSHING'S DISEASE Increased thirst and increased urination are common signs of Cushing's disease. Increased hunger is another sign for many dogs with this illness. Another sign, muscular weakness, causes a dog trouble holding its bladder and bowels. The dog will unavoidable break housetraining if it can't reach its potty area in time.

Other signs of Cushing's disease are symmetrical hair loss on both sides of the body, high blood pressure, thinning of the skin, fat deposits in the liver, calcium deposits in the skin and plugged hair follicles on the underside. Many dogs diagnosed with Cushing's disease also have a history of recurring urinary tract infections. Diagnosis can be difficult with this disease, sometimes requiring analysis of numerous blood samples.

TREATMENT AND AFTERCARE of CUSHING'S DISEASE Medications used for treating this disease inhibit steroid formation (in case of pituitary-dependent form of Cushing's disease. Even when the cause of Cushing's disease is a tumor, most cases are not treated surgically because of dangers to the dog.

A dog diagnosed with Cushing's disease must remain on medication for the rest of its life to control this condition. The dog must frequently be re-tested to be certain it's still on the correct dosage as its body adapts to the medicine.

Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.

Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.