A number of owners of Addison dogs have noted that their pets lower their heads - often lying on a couch, and trying to position the head below the level of the body. What is going on?

POSSIBLY SOMETHING VERY SERIOUS. Such owners should obtain a blood-pressure meter, and having ascertained from the vet what the correct blood-pressure is, should keep a close eye on it.

In the final stages of the disease - in EXTREMIS - the blood thickens and the blood-pressure collapses. The lack of blood to the head causes a "light-headed" swooning feeling, and an "electric" tingling of the tongue.

The sodium insufficiency that causes this usually comes together with a hydrocortisone shortage - leading to total lack of strength. In addition, the nerves are frayed - bright lights and strong smells are uncomfortable whilst sound becomes synonymous with pain. One needs TOTAL quiet.

A dog may whimper a little - but may not have the strength to do so. The Greenhow tables describe time after time a "death by sinking" - which is not a maritime disaster, but a quiet death by exhaustion.

The author, in extremis, had to balance the position of his head. Too high caused the "tingle-tongue", too low caused a banging in the head - due to the pressure surging too far up. It is a distressing state to be in.

So, whereas such symptoms as head-shaking show that all is not well, and are best avoided, the symptom of head-LOWERING should set alarm bells ringing. Ensure that the pet does not simply have a mannerism - but if it is clearly struggling with posture to try to get comfortable, urgent action is needed.

When alkaluria has been demonstrated, and/or the blood-pressure is low, Florinef and access to salt will be needed. Contact the vet for his approval.