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Article: Yo adrenals! These tiny glands exert a huge influence on your dog and his health.(TOUR OF THE DOG)
- Article from:
- Whole Dog Journal
- Article date:
- July 1, 2006
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2006 Belvoir Media Group, LLC. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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The adrenals are small glands located just forward of the kidneys. They are so small, in fact, they were virtually ignored by early anatomists for centuries. Although small in size, they are extremely important in the overall hormonal balance of the body and its ability to maintain homeostasis.
The adrenal glands also interact with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland; the collaboration of the three glands is known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis). Their joint activities help control the body's reactions to stress, whether it is physical or psychological. They also help regulate body processes such as digestion, the immune system, and energy ...