Although surgery can cure the hyperthyroidism, there are some potential problems. The parathyroid glands, which are in the same area as the thyroid, can be damaged during the surgery. This can be serious. Especially in the short term following surgery because these glands control calcium balance. The other down side to the surgery is that the hyperthyroidism can recur following the surgery.
Hyperthyroidism is rare in dogs.
Occasionally dogs get cancer of the thyroid gland that still makes thyroid hormones. Most thyroid cancers, however, are nonfunctional. All rights reserved. Used under License.