Autoimmune Disease in Dogs

As many of you know, our dog, Cody, has recently been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease.  Because of his specific multiple symptoms over the course of the two years we’ve been seeking answers and the recent ANA test that was positive, we suspect it’s Lupus. It’s been a very long journey and we feel we may finally have an accurate diagnosis.

Some history:  Cody is a 5.5 year old, neutered male, Australian Shepherd.  He’s our awesome dog with whom we’ve been on a 2 year search for what’s ailing the handsome boy.  He presented with lameness approximately 2 years ago, which has continued to worsen over the course of the 2 years.  We’ve been through a variety of local vets, specialists at Georgia Veterinary Rehab, as well Georgia Veterinary Services, an internal medicine specialist in Atlanta and also University of Georgia ortho specialist (and his 4 vet students).  In addition to chronic lameness, he has presented twice this year with a fever of unknown origin (106.5) and also has some skin and ear issues.

Here are some links that we’ve used to learn a bit more about autoimmune disease in dogs:

http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/autoimmune-skin-disease-in-dogs/944

http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_dg_lupus_erythematosus#.Ul0nmFCsiM4

http://www.natural-dog-health-remedies.com/autoimmune-disease-in-dogs.html

http://animalfair.com/dogs-lupus/

http://gvdt57.home.xs4all.nl/usa/immune2.html

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2475 

As we learn more, we’ll keep posting.

Note:  This is not a substitute for proper veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian