When there is suspected Thyroid Issues you need to ask your vet for specific testing. Often thyroid testing is at a “general” level and not the more advanced testing
Here are some key terms related to hypothyroid testing:
Total T4: This refers to the total amount of thyroxine (T4) hormone present in the blood. It’s essential to note that more than 99% of T4 is “bound” to proteins in the blood and does not reach the tissues.
Free T4: The level of free T4 indicates the amount of unbound T4 hormone available in the bloodstream. This measurement provides valuable information to the pituitary gland, guiding it in determining whether it needs to produce more thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Total T3: Total T3 measures both the bound and unbound forms of triiodothyronine (T3) hormone circulating in the blood. However, it’s important to consider that serum T3 levels alone may not be accurate as they can be influenced by secondary non-thyroidal illnesses.
Free T3: Free T3 measures the level of unbound T3 hormone in the blood. Similar to free T4, this measurement helps the pituitary gland assess whether it needs to stimulate the production of TSH.
Canine Thyroglobulin Autoantibody (TgAA): Elevated levels of TgAA indicate the presence of autoimmune thyroiditis in dogs. Monitoring TgAA levels can help in diagnosing this condition.
Once you have the results, you and I can review them and discuss specific diet plans and supplements that will help support Thyroid health.
If your dog has a Thyroid tumor then surgery may be required, but we can still take important holistic steps for foods and supplements!
While there are some common steps to the protocol, every dog is individual, so it’s important to look at the big picture as strategies are designed. And to follow-up on those strategies, regular testing, etc.