Hearing the words "your dog has diabetes" is an overwhelming experience for many pet owners. Country Club Veterinary Clinic wants you to know that with the right knowledge, support, and routine, diabetic dogs can lead joyful, active lives. This guide is an overview of what owners need to know about living with and caring for a diabetic dog.
Diabetes in Dogs
Diabetes mellitus in dogs typically results from the body’s inability to produce enough of or respond to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Without insulin, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to serious health issues. Though chronic, canine diabetes is highly manageable with proper care.
If your dog is newly diagnosed, you may have noticed some of these signs already. Common symptoms of diabetes in dogs include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Cloudy eyes (a sign of cataracts)
- Recurring infections (especially urinary tract)
Your Dog’s Diabetes Treatment Plan
A diabetic dog’s treatment plan will be specific to your canine, but most include the following components:
- Daily Insulin Injections: Diabetic dogs usually will have 2 insulin injections a day. Most dogs tolerate insulin shots very well with proper technique and positive reinforcement.
- Controlled Diet: Your vet will recommend a diet that is nutritious while also regulating blood sugar levels. If your canine needs to lose weight, the dietary recommendations should be closely followed to achieve weight loss safely.
- Exercise Routine: Regular, moderate exercise is good for all pets. Sudden increases or decreases in activity should be avoided as they can disrupt balance, so make sure to discuss exercise with your vet.
- Routine Vet Visits: Expect more frequent checkups in the early stages. We’ll adjust insulin dosage, monitor for complications, and assess overall progress.
At home, keep track of your dog’s water intake, urination habits, appetite, and insulin administration times and doses. The vet will likely recommend periodic glucose curve testing or the use of a pet glucose monitor at home for your diabetic dog. Also, make sure to be on the lookout for signs of low blood sugar, such as lethargy, weakness, tremors, and even collapse. If you grow concerned about your dog, reach out to the vet right away.
Top Tips for Managing Canine Diabetes
- Stick to a routine. Dogs thrive on consistency, especially when managing a condition like diabetes.
- Use a feeding chart so that everyone in the household is on the same page.
- Practice injection technique. Your dog’s veterinarian will show proper technique, and you’ll be a pro in no time.
- Stay in communication with the vet. Diabetes care can change over time.
- Small wins matter. When blood sugar stabilizes or your dog’s energy returns, it’s a big deal. Celebrate!
Diagnosing Canine Diabetes in Lake Charles, LA
Diabetes in dogs requires attention, but it’s far from a hopeless diagnosis. Country Club Veterinary Clinic diagnoses and treats canine diabetes in Lake Charles for dogs from Westlake, Sulphur, Lake Charles, and nearby Louisiana areas. Need support managing your dog’s diabetes? Schedule a diabetes consultation at Country Club Veterinary Clinic.