Lymphocytic thyroiditis is the primary cause of hypothyroidism in dogs and is likely hereditary. It is an immune-mediated disease in which the immune system recognizes the thyroid as abnormal or foreign and attacks it.

When the metabolic rate slows down, it affects virtually every organ in the body. Most dogs with hypothyroidism exhibit one or more of the following signs:

• Weight gain without an increase in appetite

• Increased susceptibility and occurrence of skin and ear infections

• High blood cholesterol

• Slow heart rate

In Bandit's case, we almost lost him during the treatment for heartworm disease. Additionally, any procedures requiring general anesthesia are approached with caution.

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends annual thyroid testing for pets over eight years old. Bandit was diagnosed at six and continues to take a daily thyroid-regulating pill, leading to a long and healthy life.