I was doing a quick survey of costly conditions in older dogs (older cat conditions coming soon) and Peggy, a 9 year old mixed breed dog living in Portland, OR, caught my eye.
Peggy has hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushings Disease, which is more common in middle-aged and senior dogs. Cushings is a disease where the adrenal gland produces too much cortisol, most often caused by a tumor in the pituitary or adrenal glands. It is suspected to be somewhat genetic as certain breeds such as Miniature Poodles, Dachshunds, Boxers, Boston Terriers, and Beagles are more susceptible to the condition.
The most common clinical signs for Cushings are polydipsia (PD increased thirst), polyuria (PU increased urination), polyphagia (eating too much), heat intolerance, lethargy, potbelly, panting, obesity, muscle weakness, and recurrent urinary tract infections. Have you seen your dog suffering from one of those symptoms?
Peggy has “pituitary dependent” hyperadrenocorticism, and so she is being treated by medication. Her claims since she has started her treatment are as follows:
| Vet Visit | Diagnosis | Claim Amount | Covered Amount | Paid Amount |
| 2/12/2011 | Hyperadrenocorticism, PU/PD | $1,246.47 | $1,246.47 | $597.18 |
| 3/25/2011 | Hyperadrenocorticism | $396.00 | $396.00 | $316.80 |
| 3/15/2011 | Ultrasound Abdomen | $305.00 | $305.00 | $244.00 |
| 3/28/2011 | Drug: Prednisone & Vetoryl | $76.20 | $76.20 | $60.96 |
| 4/20/2011 | Hyperadrenocorticism | $296.00 | $296.00 | $236.80 |
| 4/27/2011 | Drug: Vetoryl | $72.85 | $72.85 | $58.28 |
| 5/13/2011 | Hyperadrenocorticism | $407.48 | $378.50 | $302.80 |
| 7/16/2011 | Drug: Vetoryl | $88.49 | $70.50 | $56.40 |
| 7/29/2011 | Hyperadrenocorticism | $363.00 | $363.00 | $290.40 |
| Total | $3,251.49 | $3,204.52 | $2,163.62 |
Peggy's policy has a $500 annual deductible, an 80% reimbursement rate, a $10,000 annual maximum and includes the prescription drug coverage. Her policy costs $28.73 a month.
For more details, check out our detail on hyperadrenocorticism (Cushings Disease) in the Embrace Pet Health Center.
Are you coping with a Cushing's dog?
Related Posts:
September is Senior Pet Month at Embrace Pet Insurance
Guest Post: Top 5 good things about old dogs
Guest Post: Senior Pet Health Tips
Claim Example: hyperadrenocorticism or Cushings Disease in 9 year old dog
Guest Post: Letting Her Lead by Christine Gillow
(picture is of another Embraced dog, Lexington - what a cutie!)
