Biology Stories
  • Home
  • Stories
  • About
Picture

BUDDY REIN and CUSHING'S DISEASE...

BUDDY

Buddy Rein is a purebred Pomeranian, 11 years old, and is 30.2 pounds regularly. He has been in the family since he was the size of a tennis ball, and has had regular veterinarian check-ups. In February 2015 he was diagnosed with Cushing's disease, after the family noticed he was drinking a lot of water.

WHAT IS CUSHING'S DISEASE?

Cushing disease is caused by a tumor or excess growth (hyperplasia) of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. A type of pituitary tumor called an adenoma is the most common cause. An adenoma is almost always benign (not a cancer).

With Cushing disease, the pituitary gland releases too much ACTH. ACTH stimulates production and release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Too much ACTH causes the adrenal glands to make too much cortisol.

Cortisol is normally released during stressful situations. It controls the body's use of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and also helps reduce the immune system's response to swelling (inflammation).

HUMANS TOO?


Yes! After researching this problem, or disease, I found out that Buddy was at risk, and he was placed upon a human medication that also works in canines. It works as a cortisol suppressor, but is still in its testing phase.

Our Story. Buddy is a precious and caring dog, part of the family, and while being the biggest purebred pomeranian in the world, he is still a medium sized dog that believes he's the biggest dog in the world. He has his own Facebook page (Buddy Rein), and even is on film in several homemade movies. His size stems from a recessive gene, and for $4000 dollars it better be. 

We are waiting for blood tests, and while this story is incomplete, I hope you can say a prayer or good wish for Buddy Rein.

Thank you.