Injections Of Growth Hormone in Dogs

Growth hormone supplementation is used to treat conditions caused by low concentrations or inadequate production of growth hormone, particularly pituitary dwarfism and growth-hormone responsive dermatosis. This may be the result of congenital defect in which the pituitary gland underdevelops or malfunctions. It can also be caused by tumors and cysts on the pituitary gland.

Unfortunately, some pet owners believe it is safe to administer human growth hormones to dogs to make them grow bigger or stronger. This is incredibly dangerous for dogs. Administering human growth hormones to dogs with normal somatotropin levels will stunt their growth and decrease the size of the testes in male dogs. Growth hormones should only be used to treat conditions characterized by decreased growth hormone levels. It is illegal for anyone apart from certified veterinarians to obtain and use veterinary growth hormones.

The two main types of growth hormone administered to dogs are progestins and thyroid hormones. Other types of hormones may be recommended based on the underlying condition.

1. First, the vet will evaluate the dog to diagnose the condition and determine the correct dosage and type of growth hormones to administer.
2. For growth-hormone responsive dermatosis, growth hormone injections may be given three times a week for four to six weeks.
3. Progestins are administered once every three weeks for several months.
4. The veterinarian will taper the dose accordingly.

Growth hormone injections are considered very effective in resolving conditions associated with inadequate production of growth hormones. However, tumors and cysts on the pituitary gland must also be removed if present or the condition cannot improve. It is also important to note that this treatment is expensive. Dogs diagnosed with growth-hormone responsive dermatosis may not require treatment since the hair loss does not have an adverse effect on their health.

Dogs will not need to recover from the injections. However, if owners notice any adverse or allergic reactions to the injections, or if the condition does not improve, they should contact their vet immediately. If the condition does not improve with growth hormone injections, there may be a tumor or cyst on the pituitary gland. This will need to be treated with surgery.

The cost of growth hormone injection in dogs will vary depending on standards of living and additional treatment costs. The cost of growth hormone injection ranges from $500 to $1,000, with an average cost of $800.

The main side effect of growth hormone injections is the development of diabetes mellitus. This is most commonly associated with injections of progestin. If the dog is showing symptoms of diabetes mellitus, the owner should contact their veterinarian immediately.

It is impossible to prevent congenital growth hormone deficiency. Dogs diagnosed with and treated for growth hormone deficiency should not be bred, since it is usually a genetic condition. Never give any hormonal supplement to dogs unless under the explicit instruction of a trusted veterinarian.