Pergolide is the most common drug treatment for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction or PPID, and is most frequently used to treat the ailment in horses. PPID, also known as Cushing's disease, is caused by an increase in cortisone production, often resulting from a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. Canine Cushing's disease is similar in causes to that of equine Cushing's disease, but treatment differs.
Take as Prescribed
Pergolide is not recommended for the treatment of Cushing's disease in dogs, despite its success in the treatment of the ailment in equines. Cushing's disease presents differently in dogs and its effects on a dog's body require alternative treatment. One such treatment is the drug mitotane, used for its adrenocorticolytic effects, or ability to reduce the production of cortisol in dogs.
Doctor Knows Best
Signs of Cushing's disease include excessive thirst, hunger and panting, as well as obesity and sleeplessness. Symptomatic dogs should be seen immediately by a veterinarian.