senior dog health issues

Question
I have a 12 1/2 yr old aussie/cattle dog mix.
She has recently began drinking water excessively and her coat is thinning and dry. Could this be a diet issue, or is this something I should take her to the vet for? I would appreciate any information you could offer.

Answer
Hi Chauncee,

There can be any number of minor reasons, but several serious problems are associated with excessive water intake, such as kidney failure, diabetes, liver failure, hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease), or other conditions.

Most of the time a number of these conditions can be eliminated based on the physical examination and initial blood chemistry panel, urinalysis and complete blood cell count.

Dry skin can be dietary, hormonal, or again, it can be a symptom of serious disease such as hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease), kidney disease or liver failure.

Given the chance of a serious condition, you shouldn't put off seeing the vet.

I hope this helps!
Best of luck,
Patti