Cushing's Disease
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Natural Remedies for Cushing's Disease in Dogs

| Modified on Oct 26, 2023
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The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Melatonin and Flaxseed
Posted by Nivia (New York) on 11/06/2017
 ★★★★★

I would like to share information about The University Of Tennesse Veterinary... my dog was diagnosis with Cushing in 2011 when she was 7 years old she is now 14 years old and has been stable since. The products they mention on their website was effective on my dog.

The flax seed hull(Lignan)SDG by lignans for life and Melatonin for dogs 3 mg once a day depending on weight. I also believe it has been a big contribution to her health not worsening. I must say not every Veterinarian will have anything positive to say when it comes to Holistic medicine and not every animal will have the same results.

You have to use your own judgement along with changing her diet with raw foods, 100 percent coconut virgin oil in her foods and pro-biotic and digestive enzymes, omega oil will help with her skin and coat and digestive system. When I first change my dog's diet she did have a loose bowel movement, add 1 Tbs of coconut oil pure virgin and omega oil her body eventually got used to the change and her loose bowel movement stop it was a matter of her system getting used too. Always, check ingredient's on supplements that it mostly has natural ingredients. If you question any ingredients on a product do research on the product. I hope this can at least give you some idea what direction you would like to approach. I am not an expert or a Veterinarian I'm sharing my dog's experience with you in the hope this may help in some way or another. Good luck!

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Maribethp (Denver Pa) on 07/25/2017

According to Chinese medicine a Cushings dog should not eat chicken because chicken produces heat. Fish, duck, pork, beef better

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 07/03/2017

Hey Diane,

My dogs LOVE sauerkraut! And the non-pasturized types provide beneficial probiotics.

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Diane (Ny) on 07/03/2017

Dogs do not eat sauerkraut. They don't even have a need for much in the way of veggies.

Dietary Changes, Supplements
Posted by Debra (Houston, Tx) on 07/02/2017

You could try human probiotics like acidophilus.

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Michele (Burso, Ca) on 04/17/2017

My horse was recently diagnosed with Cushings. Can I give her the same remedies as for dogs?

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Linda (Vermont) on 04/03/2017

My boxer has cushings. It is a very frustrating disease. Where did you get your drops?

Supplements
Posted by Dee (Sc) on 02/20/2017

My dog has cushings disease and want to control the symptoms naturally. I controlled most of the symptoms. Still need to control my dog Jake's content late afternoon & evening hunger. This Lignans for Life web site and article from Dr. Jack Oliver helped me. I give my dog a healthy diet, Flaxseed Lignans, Melatonin, Milk thistle, Multi vitamin, Vitamin E, Kelp powder, enzyme & probiotic powder, organic plain Kefir, Omega 3 oil, Chic seeds, . I make homemade chicken broth with added gelatin powder and 2 tbsp. Apple cider vinegar, and feed Jake a healthy diet. 3 days a week I add cold pressed olive oil in his foods. Also I give Jake the 12 cell salts which give him energy and helps his weak back legs.

Melatonin and Flaxseed
Posted by Laura (Florida) on 02/14/2017

Thanks for the suggestion, my little dog has been diagnosed with cushings and the treatment is not working so I want to try the natural remedies, I tried to find a recipe for the flaxseed and pumpkin pancakes but no success, could you share the recipe? my dog weighs 9 pounds and I was wondering how much flaxseed should I use and if the are cooked or raw. I would really appreciate it if you would share the recipe.

Diagnosing Cushing's Disease
Posted by Diana (Raleigh, North Carolina) on 02/08/2017

Hi, where did you get the Rehmannia 11 (Chinese Herbs), Livaplex, A-F Betafood, Cardioplus?

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 01/23/2017

Hello Kathleen,

Try searching for a holistic vet here:

http://www.ahvma.org/find-a-holistic-veterinarian/

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Kathleen (Ny) on 01/20/2017

My dog has had ultra sound and blood tests and has a mass on an adrenal gland which proves to be cushing disease. The only conventional cure is surgery which I don't want to put her through. She is a Dachshund about 15 lbs. I'm having difficulty finding a holistic vet in NYC. Does anyone have a suggestion for vet?

Melatonin and Flaxseed
Posted by Kim (Arizona) on 12/20/2016
 ★★★★★

We have a boxer with a very tough case of cushings with a horrible case of calcinosis cutis. That is the open sores. We tried the natural route and saw very slight improvement. I stumbled upon study done at a university in Tennessee that uses melatonin and lignans. The melatonin actually grew all her hair back from a completely bald start. Her sores were lessed. Check it out easy to find information on it. And best of luck, cushings is a really rough one.

Dietary Changes, Supplements
Posted by Deirdre (Los Angeles, Ca) on 12/16/2016

Hi Dr. Bee. So sorry to hear your dog has Cushing's Disease.

Have you done a T4 thyroid panel on your dog to see if he's hypothyroid? My dog had the same symptoms and I ordered a thyroid panel. My vet then suggested ordering a T4 after seeing the results. Turns out he was hypothyroid. A few weeks after starting him on thyroid meds his fur starting growing back and the odor was gone.

https://www.idexx.com/resource-library/smallanimal/catalyst-dx-total-t4-testing-guide-en.pdf

Dietary Changes, Supplements
Posted by Dr. Bee (Atlanta, Georgia) on 12/16/2016
 ★★★★☆

My blue pit developed cushings and it became horrible before diagnosis. He started losing his hair and developing sores on his body. I am Naturopath so I immediately removed his food and started giving him fish, sweet potatoes, balck rice, irish moss, moringa, and other herbs for his red blood and immune system. His symptoms have cleared up except I am still not satisfied with his skin. It has not properly healed and he carries this offensive odor. I realize with all healing it takes time but does anyone know what to use to minimize the odor coming from his skin while healing??

Diagnosing Cushing's Disease
Posted by Donna (Andrews, Nc) on 12/02/2016

I have three cockapoos...One had three episodes of pancreatitis, then kidney failure after seizure and moaned a whole day even on MEDS and IV's and put him down...He was my doggie soul la et 16 years. NOW ..I have two dogs with probable Cushings..panting, weight gain, thirst and urinating....One had nystagmus and at that time no mentioned Cushings...It has been years and finally this diagnosis! I am angry both went so long with just old age syndrome..The first mentioned sixteen and these two 13yo and 15yo..I am also not doing stress steroid tests..and will do organis low fat diets and supplements. I chose Pet Well Being Adrenal Harmony Gold..and waiting for it in the mail and did kidney support supplements weeks as one had elevated BUN....and a kidney diet..ALL so expensive...!!! BUT want the every best! IT is frustrating to have two with possibly same diagnosis! OUR prayers for all fur baby pooches struggling and pet owners!

Melatonin and Flaxseed
Posted by Debbie (Va) on 09/27/2016
 ★★★★★

I make pancakes with flax for my dog with cushing. I use flax, pumpkin and water. She loves them and it has greatly reduced her symptoms. I make up a large batch and freeze them so I dont have to make them often. I give her one in the morning and evening. Also give her melatonin.

Supplements
Posted by Darlene (Isanti, Mn) on 08/27/2016

I too have a Boson Terrier with cushings and would love to talk to the lady in Ar.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Bert (Cfl) on 08/25/2016

I get the Rehmannia from Coastal Animal Hospital in Rockledge Fl. Your Vet can order them for you.

Diagnosing Cushing's Disease
Posted by Bert (Cfl) on 08/25/2016

My 14 1/2 yr old Rat-ShihTzu was diagnosed on 6/8/2016 with Cushings. She is taking Rehmannia 11 (Chinese Herbs), Livaplex, A-F Betafood, Cardioplus, for this. She is also in congestive heart failure diagnosed last week. For that, she is taking Lasix and Benazepril. She developed a cough which brought us to this new diagnosis.

Since taking the Cushings medicine her kidney function is back in the normal range and the liver enzymes are coming down. This is really hard and I hate that she is going through this. I don't know how long this will continue but as long as she is eating well and continues to interact, we will carry on.

The heart failure issue is slightly improved but the cough is still there. That is my biggest concern. Please let me know of your progress with Suzy as I think we are on the same timeline.

Chloe also has dental issues but until we can get her stable, we can't anesthetize her for the extraction/cleaning. She has been a healthy dog for all of her life until now. It breaks my heart. Take care and I hope Suzy is doing well.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Bert (Cfl) on 08/25/2016

It took two months to see any improvement with Chloe. The herbs are working and her kidneys are functioning in the normal range. Liver enzymes still high but improved. New problem is Congestive Heart Failure. We are trying to get that under control now.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Nancy (Arizona) on 08/11/2016

Hi Cody's Mom,

Try some Chamomile tea. Start with weak (of course dilute with cold water) and gradually use more bags and longer steaping until he is used to stonger tea. Keep track of his water intake in case he doesn't drink enough!!!! But you may have to make the tea his only H20 source so he will drink it. Check on line all the stuff they say Chamomile will do. I've used it before and am part way into a regimen for our JRT, Snickers. Supposed to be good for anxiety, stress, upset anything. Can soak feet in it and let air dry for itching and licking. Hope you find a good solution! I know how frustrating and stressful it is when our best friend can't tell us what's wrong. Love, Nancy

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Dee (Sc) on 08/11/2016

Where can I dogtorx. No one seems to sell it.

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Edna (Raymore) on 08/09/2016

I am curious how many drops you use of Cushex?

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Dee (Sc) on 08/06/2016

Where do you buy your Rehamnnia 11? What is the dosage you give your dog?

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Dee (Charleston, Sc) on 08/06/2016
 ★★★★☆

I have a 10 yr. old Shih Tzu dog with all the Cushings Disease symptoms. He is on a grain free diet, only eats chicken, lamb, rabbit, fish. I add a little yam or pumpkin, kefir, cold pressed virgin olive oil or org. virgin coconut oil to his food. Every 2 days I give him vitamin E and 1/8 tsp. Kelp powder. Turkey and Beef gives him gas. I tried the Cushex drops and Seriphos and they did not work on him.

I do give him Olive Leaf, Milk Thistle, Lignans for Life Lignans flaxseed, and Melatonin. It helped his fur grow back, his excessive water drinking is less, his weak back legs are better, he pants less at night. The only symptoms that he still has is excessive hunger from noon till evening, and restless at night. He sleeps during the day and restless most of the night. My guess is his cortisol is high at night.

Does anyone know a remedy for hunger and to help my dog to sleep at night?

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Dee (Sc) on 08/06/2016

I buy organic plain whole yogurt and also use organic plain whole kefir for my dog.

Dee

Diagnosing Cushing's Disease
Posted by Jimb (Greensboro, Nc) on 06/17/2016

Our 12 year old cockapoo was just diagnosed with Cushings. We had noticed a thinning coat and reluctance to go on walks, but an episode of imbalance/vertigo/nystagmus in which I rushed her to the emergency vet has led us to this conclusion. The emergency vet suspected a random vestibular event, but elevated liver enzyme made her suspicious. Suzy's regular vet confirmed Cushings via blood test, and we're going today for a belly ultrasound. We're hoping to be able to manage her condition without harsh drugs. I'm grateful to have found this website, and appreciate reading everyone's experiences. Anybody with words of wisdom as to how to relax and be at peace with all this, please chime in! Thanks.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Bert (Florida) on 06/17/2016

Just started my dog on Rehmannia 11, Livaplex and Cardioease as prescribed by our Vet. How long did it take before you saw improvement? She is really out of it. Dog dementia and frequent thirst and urination. She also is always hungry. She is 13 lbs and 14 1/2 years old.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Paulette (Omaha, Ne Usa) on 05/30/2016

I also use Cushex drops-S for my 15 yr old, 20 lb. American eski mix. The bottle will give you a recommendation for body weight. I use .25 on a small piece of bread 3x a day. Vet had me put her on 3mg of melatonin am and pm for her anxiety. He also said to give her 20 mg of HMR Lignans made from Norway Spruce that you can buy on Amazon. All these were approved and recommended by my vet who really doesn't do holistic but knows that I do for myself.

It is a very expensive disease to treat the traditional way with all the testing that needs to be done. Since there is no cure and the vet gave me the option of treating it traditionally or holistically, I chose the holistic approach and I am glad I did.

She still pants and is restless but eager for her meds. Doing much better and seems to be happy.

i use only grain free food, dry and moist from Only Natural Pet.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Diane (Louisville, Ky) on 03/19/2016

Newton homeopathy. Fatigue fighter. Thyroid. No grain dog food. Venison sweet potato or buffalo sweet potato. Natural balance dog food. Classical music. No loud music or noise worked for us. Allergy and or stress problem. Keep everything less stress.

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Christine (Oregon) on 03/01/2016

What is this in your article "I use natural product to it is 1 drop per 2 lb of weight of dog." What kind of drops is it. Now that it has been several years how are your dogs doing?

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Christine (Oregon) on 03/01/2016

Use sweet potatoes or yams instead of pumpkin.

Supplements
Posted by M Mccullough (Pennsylvania) on 02/10/2016

Try going on www.petwellbeing.com. They have a product called Adrenal Harmony Gold, specifically for Cushings disease. You'll want to read their positive testimonies. I ordered a bottle and my 14 yr old Boston Terrier is on her 6th day of treatment. I don't do specific recipes; she eats well as I've always fed her grain free kibble and she's very lively for her age; will continue to feed same till I see results of any decrease in her voracious appetite for food and water...hope this helps....blessings!

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Erika (Irvine, Ca) on 01/28/2016

Hi Debbiemarie54,

Re: "Cody constantly licks his feet is a major symptom of allergies."

My 7yr-old Yorkie does the same when she eats chicken, beef, Bison, turkey and lamb. I didn't know and was giving her all of the above mentioned for a long time. I used to think her licking her paws were her habits or something and didn't think much of it. One day, she had a severe allergy reaction, anaphylaxes after eating chicken soup I made, (just good chicken and carrots without salt.) and I found out that she has been allergic to chicken. Since then I paid more attention and found out she has also developed allergies to beef, bison, turkey and lamb. (after eating any of these she would start licking her paws in five min.)

I stopped giving her all of them and started to give her Pork and Venison and now she never licks her paws.

Please try feeding Cody a different type of protein, if you have been giving him chicken or beef or any of the mentioned above and see if he still licks his paws after he eats them. Because I've experienced the same myself I wanted to help. I understand how it is like. It's not easy. Ask me w/anything I'm happy to help you and Cody!

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Jan (New Port Richey, Fl) on 01/08/2016

Hi there, I am in the Tampa Bay area as well, recently moved to NPR. Dr. Carmen Saladino was formerly with Connechusetts Animal Hospital and is now at Animal Care in Land O Lakes; she's been my vet for > 20 years w/2 Cushings dogs. She recommended Denamarin for my beagle and it's made a great difference. Now 3 years later, we are looking at adding selegine, but from this website I'm going to look at Cushex and raw diet. If you look Dr. Saladino up tell her Allie's mom sent you; her number is 813-996-3800. Grateful for this networking website. Best of luck to you.

Dietary Changes
Posted by Jan (New Port Richey, Fl) on 01/08/2016

Hi Stella's mom, my 12 1/2 yr old beagle has cushings. Just today I talked w/her Vet and we agreed to begin selegine on Monday. Can you tell me exactly what raw diet you have your sweet Stella on? I used to make my own dog food by cooking chicken, green beans, carrots, applesauce, sometimes rice, sometimes oatmeal. But Allie constantly had GI upset, diarrhea, mucousy stool. Have her on Science Diet ID now, canned which she is tolerating well. But classic cushings (hunger, thirst, increased urination, lethargy, sagging belly, nighttime restlessness, incessant barking). Have been doing Denamarin (S-AMe and milk thistle) for 3 1/2 years which made a world of difference for awhile but things have advanced and adding selegine. Allie is also mostly blind and deaf as far as I can tell and this is new for the past 2-3 months.

Any advice, tips, etc from you or anyone is greatly appreciated. Also interested in the supraglan and anipryl, will look them up as alternatives to selegine.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Gina Jacobsen (Olympia, Wa) on 12/18/2015

Hello, my 12 yr old Boston terrier was just diagnosed with Cushings. I really liked your post and how descriptive you were on the things the holistic vet prescribed to you. I went and looked every item up and what they were for and thought you were on a really good regimen and wish I could go to your holistic vet! Anyhow I want to treat my beloved holistically too. I am not really interested in giving her medications like trilostane or vectoryl as some of the doctors would like, that is a last ditch effort for me. I went to a holistic vet to which he told me to go to the website lignans for life and research there for something, I'm not sure what I'm looking for. I'm very interested in knowing the doses of the supplements that you listed? I don't know how this blog stuff works as this is the first time I have done it and am curious if you'll even get this post. If you do, please respond and help, I don't know what else to do without finding another holistic vet and paying a lot of money just to start all over again. Thanks- Gina

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Ana (Ny) on 12/18/2015 15 posts

Use Dr Pitcairn and Dobias, they are 2 separate DVMs for their websites, videos and books. We have used one day of veggie broth, 3x a day, as much as the pup/dog will take, homemade and no salt, then next day use chicken juice, from uncooked chicken and just boil enough until it just turns color. Next day 1 cooked egg in am, leave runny, then in pm chicken cutlet, used breast. All other meats rotate except beef, do not use, use chicken, turkey, lamb pork, deer, rabbit, fish, see Pitcairn for recipes and Dobias has good input on why certain meats. Real bones are only done after a couple of weeks with success here and they are never ever cooked. I start holding the chicken leg for example and teach the dog what I expect and eventually they get the idea real fast to use all their teeth. You must provide a place for them to eat that is easy to clean, also get gentle soap to wash their jaw/chin and paw areas, use like Dr Bonner or Dr Woods soap watered down. Start with part-cooking your meat and keep track of any issues along with what you feed to rule out allergies. Use cast iron pan and cold pressed olive oil. Herbs and spices are okay see the above doctors for more info. You will see the spices used in their practice and supplements, like parsley, Italian spices with no onion, only use garlic powder in small quantities. Hope this helps. Apple cider vinegar should be a regular in your kitchen, research everything and keep track, in the end it is easier, cheaper and you will have wished you had done it long ago.

Prayers and best of the best to you and yours.

Dietary Changes
Posted by Stella's Mom (Ca) on 10/01/2015
 ★★★★★

First, ANY animal or person with ANY health condition, illness, disease is NEVER to be vaccinated again - not bordatella, rabies, whatever. None means 0, nada, nothing. The vet who advised you about giving bordatella is wrong; it also is a useless vaccine and only helps with 2 of the 8-12 types of "cold" your dog could catch. Best is to make their immune strong and healthy. That happens by feeding the right diet of raw meat and bones, a little vegetable, good fat (meat, eggs, salmon..), NO vaccines/drugs/toxins/chemicals. No grains; dog's are carnivores. They don't cook and don't eat grains of any kind.

Our family uses homeopathy for ourselves and our animals. No matter what the condition, homeopathy can and does cure - not cover up the symptoms or make another problem. We've used it for dogs with liver disease, seizures, IBD, pancreatitis and aggression (caused by rabies vaccine). It's been successful for each.

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 10/01/2015

Hey Carole!

Please inquire directly to the manufacturer and let us know what you learn about this product:

http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/ask-us.html

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Carole (Eagan, Mn) on 10/01/2015

I see that there are two types of Cushex Drops-M and Cushex Drops-S. Can the two be used together or do you use one or the other?

Grain-Free Diet
Posted by Tom (Vallejo, Ca) on 08/22/2015
 ★★★★★

Switched my dog to a grain free diet and it help out on the Cushings disease. His overall improvement was 90 per cent.Still has minor hair loss and a small cough once or twice a week instead of daily.

Supplements
Posted by Spirits Mom (Kc, Mo) on 08/19/2015

My 13 1/2 year old chihuahua has cushings AND kidney disease and the vet wants me to decide if I will use trilostane or mitotane. I'm uncomfortable with both and like you have become overwhelmed with all the information. I looked into the Supraglan you ordered thinking maybe I would try it too, and wanted to share with you what I found - this article clearly states to stay away from Supraglan.

http://www.askavetquestion.com/answer_np.php?id=2767-supraglan-for-cushings

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 07/30/2015

Hey Debbiemarie54!

If you read the forum folks mention various dosages they used for their particular pet. Dosage may depend on weight or severity of symptoms, and may change depending on improvement or worsening of symptoms. Since you have purchased the product and have it in hand, what does it say for dosage information on the product itself?

I have not used this product and have no familiarity with it; if you need further guidance as to dosage and find no useful direction in reading others experiences, the company does offer support staff for questions - why don't you contact the company directly and speak with their experts? The number to phone a call in or submit an online request form can be found on the product website:

http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/contact-us.html

Good luck and please share what you find!

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 07/30/2015

Hey Linda!

I have not purchased or used this product but I found it instantly with a google search. Try doing a google search "cushex drops cottonwood AZ" to find locations near you that may have it readily available. If nothing else it is available mail order/online. Good luck!

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Debbiemarie54 (Loma Linda, California) on 07/29/2015

Can someone tell me the correct dose of the Cushx- Drops-S to give my dog Cody? I asked this in an earlier post but really didn't a response. He is 48 pounds with a very mild case of Cushings Disease.

I opted for the natural method due to the cost of the traditional method and because he only has a mild case.

Someone earlier suggested I place him on an elaborate diet. This is out of the question. I have major clinical depression and I barely cook for myself.

I love him and want to keep him as healthy as possible, but I am only capable of just so much.

Can someone please just tell about the dosage of the drops? Thank you.

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Linda Larry (Cottonwood, Az.) on 07/28/2015

Where may I purhase Cushex drops for my 15 year old Jack Russel?

Supplements
Posted by Maureen (Hove) on 07/26/2015

Do you know if ACV is of any benefit to dogs diagnosed with Cushings please?

Supplements
Posted by Grandixie (Little Rock, Ar) on 07/25/2015

My sweet, sweet Boston Terrier Bruce has just been diagnosed with Cushing's. He is 12 1/2 and has been really healthy until this set back. I got online and have read for days about changing his food to raw, adding fish oil and many other things. I'm a bit overwhelmed at this point with all the info out there. I read about the U of Tennessee havung great results with the supplement Supraglan. I just ordered it yesterday and wondered if anyone has used this and what results have you had. Any help as to where to start on this journey with my precious Bruce would be greatly apreciated. I'm on a fixed income but I will do without to provide for him. Thanks

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Debbiemarie54 (Loma Linda, California) on 07/24/2015
 ★★★★☆

This is my first post. My dog Cody, who is 13 years old, and a Sheltie, was diagnosed with a very mild form of Cushing disease. I opted to not place him on traditional medicine and try Cushex Drop S. Cody has been on the drops about 1 month. His appetite is normal again and he does not pant as much as he used too.

I think his hair may be returning but I'm not sure yet. I had him shaved due to the heat last summer, and his hair never grew back. That was before the diagnosis.

I give Cody 5 drops in his food in the morning. He is 48 pounds. Is that the correct amount?

Another problem I have with him is he constantly licks his feet and injures himself to the extent I have to take him to the Vet, make him wear the cone hat most of the time, etc. And Cody seem anxious a lot, which makes me anxious because I don't know how to soothe him.

I recently put him on Pet-Eez from PetsMart as a last resort. I am on social security and really cannot afford these high Vet bills, expensive medications, etc.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 07/22/2015

Hey Darlene!

You are posting on a thread from 2009; in case the original poster does not see your question, I have some advice.

If you are vegan you might find it easiest to use a pre-formulated raw diet; these are located in the freezer section of higher quality pet supply stores. Also, rather than yoghurt for the probiotics, you can also buy these in capsules in the refrigerated section of high quality HUMAN health food stores; you might also consider home made raw sauer kraut for the same probiotic health benefits.

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Darlene (Virginia, USA) on 07/22/2015

My dog has Cushings and I appreciate all the info on this site! I have a question:

I am interested in changing our dog's diet to raw like you talk about. The problem is that I'm vegan - I don't know which meat to buy, and I don't know about the yogurt. What do you buy? Where do you buy it? Can I use store-bought yogurt?

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Wendy (Ohio) on 07/20/2015

You more than likely used far too MUCH canned pumpkin.

Read this info:

http://www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/pet-articles/pet-health/Canned-Pumpkin-for-Dogs-and-Cats.aspx

"Too much canned pumpkin can lead to lose bowel movements and create an entirely different issue."

Also, make sure you're using PURE PUMPKIN, NOT the pumpkin pie filling!

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Carolyn (Hudson, Fl) on 07/20/2015

I tried using pumpkin and my dog, 8 yr old lab mix, had horrible runs. I stopped the pumpkin and it cleared up. Good luck.

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Leslie (Tampa, Fl ) on 07/09/2015

My dog was diagnosed today with Cushings after the low dex test was done this week.. I use integrative medicine.. & do not have an integrative vet in Tampa. I did want to thank Jr Denman for his pumpkin comment with the product from Whole Foods.. I am just starting this journey to treat my dog with the best combination of products.. I hope to find a vet that can work with me .. My vet only has a negative opinion about the holistic treatments. She says no studies show that they truly work..

I love the info from University of Tenn. College of Veterinary Med. & am going to order a product called Cush Away..

Anyone use that product?

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Jr Denman (Mississippi) on 04/27/2015

You can get organic pumpkin (no other ingredients or preservatives) in a BPA-free can at Whole Foods. It's called "Nummy-Tum-Tum" and made just for dogs. I've never found frozen pumpkin, and fresh isn't always available and is difficult to handle. Pumpkin is very good for a dog's digestion.

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Diana (Ca., US) on 02/04/2015

Stay away from commercial foods all around and canned vegetables, pumpkin or anything else that comes in a can. Use Halshan raw food rabbit and vegetables or fish and vegetables and cook in a pot and portion before freezing. Use Dogtorx twice a day. The product has a new name now since it is new branding. Emeric is manufacturing it. Don't overload your dog with continuous digestive enzymes until he won't be able to digest properly without them. A wonderful supplement one should not miss out on is mezotrace special dog formula.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Cecelia (Fredericksburg, Va ) on 01/25/2015

My dog, now age 12. 5 was diagnosed with cushings disease over 2 years ago. We put him on 10 mg Vetoryl capsule, 250 mg Milk Thistle, Krill Oil, Omega treats, supplement for joints, and 225 mg Denosyl. He show no signs of the disease. We feed him high quality dog food, treats and human grade meat and veggies. His belly looks little bit pooched, but that could be due to his inactivity because of my busy schedule. I am also going to try Dynovite. My dog looks amazing. He is healthy, happy, and strong. If your dog has this disease do not be afraid to use these products. Every dollar will be well spent. I hope my input helps.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Cynthia (Los Angeles, CA) on 12/04/2014

I don't know if I'm posting in the right place. My 12 year old Rhodesian Ridgeback (93lb) has shown signs of cushings for 2 years or so but was given the diagnosis recently. She has a large tumor on one adrenal.

Her symptoms had escalated from non stop UTI's to thick patches under the skin that appeared and within a week had split and were bleeding. She lost hair in that area. We did an antibiotic to treat the bladder infection and skin.

We started the medication - trilostane - in the last month. At the same time, I read about horses with Cushings who were given tumeric - do the research on what kind, how much and with what - and their tumors shrank. It needs to be given with black pepper extract so it can be absorbed and healthy cold pressed fats like coconut, olive or sunflower oil. I started her at 500 mg 2 times a day, as well as cushex drops and at about a week or 10 days doubled her tumeric to 1000mg 2 x per day when she seemed to tolerate it.

What is amazing is that we ran out of medication after 2 weeks, and for more than a week she was off of it. During that time the hair continued to grow back where it had fallen out in the last 2 months - she was still visibly improving while off the medication. I have restarted the medication, but from what I am observing the alternative approach is having an effect - otherwise within a few days of her being off we would have seen a worstening of symptoms. Instead we saw a continued improvement.

She still has some of the symptoms - thirst, appetite, but overall seems so much better from when we started the protocol and it has only been about 5 weeks.

I am going to keep her on the trilostane but share this in case it helps others. I bought a high quality tumeric that comes with the pepper extract in capsule form online. I started my male who is 3 years younger and has fatty cysts on the same protocol. I have a hunch that it is preventative.

I will report any changes.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 11/24/2014

Hey Art!

A 45 minute seizure is scary! If you can get the kidneys back, you might want to check for diabetes.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Art (Salinas, Ca) on 11/23/2014

Hi, I just took my Rocky in for rehydration for three days. If we can get his kidneys back then we have to deal with the cushings. I took him off the raw diet about one month ago. He had a seizure where his head was leaned over to one side and had lost his balance, it lasted for about 45 minutes. He then started getting very skinny. Do you have any suggestions?

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Clare (England) on 08/16/2014

My GSD bitch has Cushing's and the vet wanted to start her on Vetoryl. I was so worried and read everything online about Cushing's, Vetoryl and alternative treatments. I tried flax lignans, a homeopathic remedy I read about online that an English vet had done a study on. I already feed raw. Anyway I clutched at any straw going. Also the Cushing's had effected her liver so she was prescribed a very expensive supplement which I can't afford and the insurance won't cover, so I imitate it with the ingredients bought seperately.

Her first stim test showed no improvement and I gave in and asked for Vetoryl. I took the week off from my part time job and never left my dog because I was so scared of side effects. Nothing happened and she has been fine on the Vetoryl. Her first stim test since she has been on Vetoryl shows that her Cushing's is under control and one of the liver enzymes is now just under the normal top range, and the other had dropped from 800 to 400, which is still high but on its way down. Hopefully the next stim test in a month will show the liver is back to normal.

My vet wanted me to use Hill's LD prescription diet instead of raw but no way am I feeding my dog soy. I think it is because she is fed raw that her symptoms have been mild and that she has responded to a low dose of Vetoryl The moral of this story is not to be afraid of Vetoryl. The only problem that has arisen is that because the high cortisol level masked her arthritis due to hip dysplasia she went very, very lame and refused to go for a walk. The vet has prescribed Onsior because the curcumin that helped my other GSD who also has HD so miraculously didn't help my bitch. Onsior has done wonders for her. Again I don't like using it as it is an NSAID but my vet assures me she will be fine. She is ten and if she has another year of life with no hip pain and her Cushing's under control that I will be happy.

Homeopathic Drops
Posted by Sue Tay (Oregon, US) on 07/22/2014

I also used Cushex drops for my American Eskimo who was diagnosed with Cushings at age 12. At the time his liver enzymes were so elevated the vet didn't know why he was still alive. He was panting heavily, barking at phantom food he thought was on the table, pacing a lot at night (which may have been the start of canine dementia) and very thirsty. The treatment the vet mentioned was super expensive with all the testing that was involved. I put him on Cushex, 3 times a day at first, then 2, then after a while just once. The bottle cost $30 and lasted a year. I went through 3 bottles and then his symptoms did not reappear. ( A year earlier when I ran out and couldn't get another for a couple of weeks they did reappear, but less.) My little guy passed away a month before he turned 16. So glad I had that extra time with him!

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Tamarahsimone9 (Los Angeles, Ca) on 07/20/2014

I thought I would share my story about my 9 year old female dachshund. She weighs 18lbs, and was diagnosed with Cushings the end of April 14. She doesn't have all of the symptoms, however, she was coughing alot, and then got pnemonia. That is what has led me on this journey.

When her blood test came back positive for cushings, I immediatley went to a holistic Dr. He muscle tested her and gave me some supplements. She contracted pnemonia again. Dr. prescribed clavamox which got rid of the pnemonia. Since then, I have decided to treat her with supplements and organic food. The Dr. wanted to start her on meds, however, I really don't like the side effects. Plus, monthly blood work etc...which I would totally be willing to pay, however, I believe I need to try to heal her naturally.

So, here is my regime, it takes time each morning and evening, but, for what I am observing, her hair has grown back (she had a round patch of hair missing) the underside of her torso has also grown back completely, she's active, doesn't drink an excessive amount of water and really doesn't show the symptoms. She does still have a slight cough, but it's mild and usually happens in the morning a bit. Of course, I am keeping my eye on that. I just thought if I could help anyone who is also going through this with their pet it is so worth me sharing.

In the morning I feed her a little dry (I am using Blue right now) that is mixed with Transfer Factor, I put a dollop of cooked sweet potatoes, ground up spinach and kale (about 1/4 cup) then I add 1 tsp. flaxseeds, 1 Tbsp of tumeric, 2 Tbsp either raw chicken, salmon, tuna, 1x a day- andrographis complex, antronex, milk thistle, pituitrophin PMG, 1/2 of the pill fren-gre, melatonin at night 1mg, parotid PMG and sprinkle on her food 1 tsp.. of immunity for pets. 2x a day, congaplex and xue fu zhu wan and 8 drops of Supraglan. In addition, to mix things up I may add a T. coconut oil to her food, or use goat yogurt......I have also read where ginko biloba is recommended but I have not used it yet. I would love any feedback or advise. Thanks for letting me share my story. I will keep you updated on our progress. Peace........

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Theresa (Mpls., Mn) on 04/14/2014

Hey Linda! Sorry to hear about your dog's Cushing's diagnosis. Raw high protein diets are best. If raw is not possible feed them a grain free, potato free, high protein, high quality canned food such as Instinct canned or Vital chub rolls. Check out this site and look at the top end/5 star brands for high protien, grain free, potato free options: Http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Linda (W.minot, Me.) on 04/14/2014

I just stumbled across this site and have learned so much, thank you all, my Little Lasa-poo is currently having the Testing for Cushings, she has all the Symptoms..I felt so guilty thinking it was my Fault I didn't pay close enough attn. to her weight or so I thought it was..it wasn't until she had a ravenous Appetite and uncontrollable thirst for water, not to mention a couple of accidents in the House, that I knew something was wrong..I love her so much, she is my little girl, she will be 8 in June..I am guilty of the bag food, canned food, all the pet chemicals for fleas etc...Which after this, I am so going to make Life changes for her, Thanks to all of you! ..so I need any and all address you can post for Holistic food, supplements, etc..I do not want my little to go through anymore hell than she has...so please help..Thank You So Much! ...Linda & Lucy!

Melatonin
Posted by Ccmolly74 (Akron Ohio) on 03/27/2014
 ★★★★★

My name is Caren. I have a 10 yr old female shih tzu named Molly and she has been diagnosed with Cushings disease and I saw that they said that they use melatonin for her Cushings she weights 16 pounds and was just wondering how much melatonin to give her?

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Tina (Lancaster, Ohio) on 08/29/2013
 ★★★★★

Solaray Milk Thistle with Phytosome 80% Silymarin 300 mg. 1x a day, Solaray Tumeric Root Extract 95% Curcumin 300 mg. 1x a day, Nature Made Fish Oil 1200 mg. W/ 360 mg. OMEGA-3, NOW SAMe 200 mg. 1-2 x's a day on an empty stomach. I also give Pet Probiotics and Enzymes by Dr. Mercola Healthy Pets. My Dallas has very high ALP liver enzymes (3, 971) off the charts and they have been going up for the past two years until I put him on Milk Thistle and Tumeric combined w/ the other supplements. In 3 months time I have got his liver enzymes down to 2,300 and still working to get them down. I will have the vet recheck in a few months to see were the ALP enzymes are at. I have also put him on a Raw food diet (Nature's Variety, Instinct raw Bites). No grains at all. He is possibly a Cushing's dog. Oh and his weight is 26-27 lbs. I hope this helps and the best of luck.

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Clondon (Lakewood, Ca) on 04/14/2013

I would switch to raw feeding you can buy pre made raw if you don't want to do it yourself!

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Meeasm (S. Ontario, Canada) on 04/09/2013

Suggest seriously perusing info on Mary Strauss' website at WWW.DOGAWARE.COM

and/or joining Lew Olsen's K9Nutrition list on yahoo. com at K9Nutrition group pets.groups.yahoo.com

Wishing you the very best of luck and am sending zen, healing thoughts and prayer to you both!

Dietary Changes, Remedies
Posted by Erica (Goodlettsville, Tn, Usa) on 04/08/2013

My dog has high liver enzymes ALT and ALP. The enzymes are elevating each month. I have had pleanty of blood work done and have put her on the diet the vet reccommended and she is taking a daily supplement with milk thistle in it. Can you recommend a more natural diet? I have read articles and just am worried sick about my dog. he is 16 and I dont want to do surgeries or anything where she has to be put to sleep anymore. Can you help me? Thank you. Erica

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Lou (Tyler, Tx) on 02/11/2013

If you read the Wikipedia description about the disease, toward the bottom it talks about the disease being doctor induced - via steriods and I think I read antibiotics somewhere else.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Kally Goschke (Captain Cook, Hawaii) on 12/23/2012
 ★★★★★

My incredible vet has treated my 14 year old dog for Cushings with Rhemannia and Liver Happy chinese herbs. She has lived for 2 years with cushings and a large liver and is still going strong with ZERO side effects. I am so happy with these herbs and my dog has a very good quality of life. She can still jump in and out of car, go on hikes where it is cool, amazing. I am so glad I didn't have to give her toxic meds I want to spread the word they are not needed in the least!!

Dietary Changes
Posted by Gayle (San Jose, Ca Usa) on 09/20/2012
 ★★★★★

My dog came down with Cushings about 1 yr ago. Decided against standard treatment because of side effects, cost, and the fact that the drugs start killing off the adrenal gland. Switched to diet that is blend of EVO wet food, raw meat, raw eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, raw vegetables, raw fruit, and a supplement the vet had called Si Maio San 4 Marvels by Kan Essentials. After 4 days his symptoms completely stopped. I think the diet made the difference. Just recently the symptom of increased hunger has returned and I'm going to switch to mostly raw to see if that helps. I'm also going to add the probiotics and ACV.

Supplements, Diet, Exercise
Posted by Sarabelle (South Bend, In, USA) on 07/01/2012

I've noticed a lot of dogs BEFORE getting Cushing's Disease have been over-medicated. A lot of vets are so quick to want to put our dogs on heart medicine "just in case", as well as steroids and other ridiculous drugs. I believe this causes the disease, among other illnesses, in our furry friends.

My grandparents' Sheltie used to be a vibrant, beautiful dog, then the vet wanted to put him on all sorts of medicines for minor things! Two years later, he is in pitiful shape with Cushing's Disease.

Now, our Standard Poodle and my parents' own Sheltie have NEVER been medicated outside of the typical rabies, etc. , vaccines, and they are both healthy and beautiful. Just like people, we don't need to be so quick to medicate our dogs.

Another thing I have learned: My father's friend had a small dog with this disease when someone finally said, "Get that dog off of all medication and the steroids NOW. " Instead, she gave him raw chicken mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of plain yogurt. She said her dog became more energetic and the disease started clearing up.

Over the Counter, Diet, Supplements
Posted by Pat (Elkton, Va.) on 08/22/2011

I want to tell eveyone with a dog with Cushings disease to try a product called Supraglan. My maltese was diagnosed with Cushings and was drinking water constantly and urinating uncontrollably. I tried the Cushex drops but Supraglan works much better. I could not believe the results. She rarely has an accident now. Its a little expensive but goes a long way. And the Petwellbeing co. gives a return customer discount. I also give her vitamens and suppliments and all natural dog food. She is now almost 13 and still doing great.

Supraglan, Anipryl
Posted by Phyllis (High Point, North Carolina) on 05/17/2010
 ★★★★★

I started my cocker spaniel on supraglan which is a holistic medicine for cushings disease...and giving her anipryl 15mg (1 a day)supraglan 1 drop for every 2 lbs...sh is doing very good on these...

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Jean (Cerritos, Ca) on 03/28/2010

A few weeks ago I was able to attend the National Natural Health Show in Anaheim, CA, and this event is by invitation only. I went to the Pet section and was unable to find anyone who knew about Cushings Disease for Mr.Bear, our dog. In another booth Dr. Cass Ingram (who has written 30 books) was kind enough to answer my question re: Cushings and gave me items to purchase from North American Herb and Spice. Hours later I asked Dr. Ingram to write the amounts to take, and I forgot to mention, as he had talked to many people by then that I was talking about a 15 pound dog and his reply to me was for adults.

This weekend I went to the Long Beach Health Freedom EXPO and the same company was there and gave me the breakdown for measurements for Mr. Bear.

At Dr. Joseph Mercola's presentation yesterday he had a slide of one of his last patients before he quit his practice 5 years ago and it was a man with Cushings. Dr. Mercola said he was speaking to 3,000 Dr. and asked how many new about Cushings and only a few replied.

I will list the ingredients Dr. Cass Ingram gave me and you can list if you choose as this products is useful for humans and animals. The company is North American Herb and Spice and what was recommended for humans.

Chag-0-power - 20 drops
Royal Oil - one half teaspoon
Purely-B - one Tablespoon
Green Flush - 20-40 drops
Oil of Oregano - 2-3 drops

For animals it would depend on the size and I am presently working with small increments.

I pray this helps as Cushings is a hard one to treat. Sincerely, Jean


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