Special Needs: hypoparathyroidism: will need daily medication

Description:
This poor boy was found and brought to a local animal clinic. They could not find his owners but traced his microchip back to us. Max loves car rides and he would love to eat ice all day long. He does not do well with other dogs, but he's really great with cats. We took him on a leash into the cat area and his tail didn't stop wagging. (The cats, however, were not quite as excited.)

Medical Information. Max has a condition called hypoparathyroidism, which can also be found in humans. It is usually inherited, or a result of another untreated condition--but it's not something people or your other pets can "catch" like you would a cold. The parathyroid glands are on your neck, and they make a substance that helps your body absorb and use calcium. "Hypo" means "not enough," so the glands aren't making enough of the calcium-absorbing stuff. This leads to low blood calcium. Low blood calcium causes muscle cramping and spasming. Untreated, it can lead to seizures and breathing problems. The good news is that it is completely treatable, and the treatment is pretty easy. Max will need a prescription form of vitamin D for the rest of his life. The vitamin D will help his body absorb extra calcium from the food he eats and from the sunshine. If you adopt Max, you may want to consult with your vet about a diet that will include extra vitamin D and calcium. But he will not need any major lifestyle accommodations: he will be able to run and play just like any other dog!



*** According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Labrador Retriever is a loving, affectionate, lovable, patient dog. Once known as the "St John's Dogs," the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada the Labrador was trained to jump overboard into the icy waters to haul fisherman's nets to shore. Specimens were brought to England in the 1800's by English ships coming from Labrador, where the dog's fine retrieving instincts were honed and developed. One of the best family dogs and canine companions because of their gentle, loving disposition, the highly trainable Labrador also excels in drug detection, as a guide for the blind, and service dog for the disabled. The breed is also an outstanding obedience and field trial competitor. Highly intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. Lively and good-natured, they love to play, especially in water - for they love to swim. They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly, superb with children and equable with other dogs. They crave human attention and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs are easily trained. These dogs are watchdogs, not guard dogs, although some have been known to guard. They have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.