Humans do not have an exclusive on this disorder. Dogs are known to suffer from Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism). Hypoadrenocorticism is the result of under activity of the adrenal glands in the production of corticosteroids. In most cases the cause of the disease is unknown, however, it is suspected to be the result of an auto-immune reaction.
     Addison's Disease is usually a gradual progressive process. Initially this disease may only be symptomatic during periods of stress; such as surgery, travel, intense activity. Although most often occurring in young to middle-aged female dogs, this disease does not appear to have a breed predilection. The initial indications of this disease can be; lack of appetite, vomiting, weakness and lethargy. As the function of the adrenal glands progressively deteriorates the symptoms are no longer limited to times of stress. The symptomatic incidences will occur more often, for longer periods of time and increase in severity. Left untreated the dog will experience vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration. This will lead to shock, coma and death.
     Treatment most often consists of fluid therapy, glucocorticoid replacement, mineralocorticoid replacement and hormone replacement. With treatment, dogs afflicted with Addison's Disease can lead a healthy "normal" life.