Dog Diabetes Treatment

Dog diabetes treatment is a serious matter in pet health nowadays. While most people think that diabetes is just for us, people – it isn't really so. Today dogs are increasingly being affected by diabetes and it is on the rise. Dogs of some breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Poodles, Keeshonds and Miniature Pinschers are more vulnerable to the diabetes disease. Females are more prone to develop diabetes among dogs. However, with the development of medical science this fairly common disease has become increasingly manageable and treatable which certainly is good news for many.

Where to Start with Dog Diabetes Treatment?

The most vital and initial stage of dog diabetes treatment is visiting a vet. It ensures a proper diagnosis of the disease. Treatments vary from dog to dog; however, it is pretty much similar to that of humans which is dependant on insulin and diet control. A brief discussion regarding dog diabetes treatment is essential.

Insulin therapy is the simplest treatment and it can be carried at home as shown in the veterinary health care clinic. Following proper instructions, such as proper mixing, proper storage, and proper dosing, can lead to significant effects on insulin treatment. This dosage is properly monitored by the vet and studies reveal even very fine and small insulin are well tolerated by dogs. However, the dose depends on the dog’s body weight and individual needs. This insulin therapy is followed by a monitoring of blood glucose curve. This test effectively monitors the effect of insulin on dogs and its effectiveness. A proper note also needs to be taken on the effects of exercise, diet, and insulin on lowering blood sugar levels and reducing blood sugar swings. For long-term insulin therapy this test is very essential.

Treating Dog Diabetes with Controlled Diets

Diet is another important factor which plays a major role in treating dog diabetes. Studies have shown that treatment for diabetes is highly ineffective in overweight dogs. Hence managing the diet of an overweight dog is quintessential. The diet chart for a middle-aged obese diabetic dog is not at all applicable for a severely underweight diabetic dog. Feeding is prescribed twice daily coinciding with insulin injections. Vets would help overweight dogs with adequate exercise in order to ensure your dog a healthier weight. The underlying statement remains – love for dogs does not merely mean overfeeding for them! Similarly lack of proper and healthy diet might lead to low blood sugar crisis in dogs. This leads to lethargy, weakness, and sometimes seizures. In such cases, corn syrup is applied to the gums and also additional intravenous glucose for stabilizing the dogs.

Oral hypoglycemic drugs are also available as an alternative to insulin injections and depending on the requirement the vets usually prescribe the medicines.

Finally one thing should be kept in mind, treating dog diabetes demands proper commitment from the owner. However a regular followup with re-evaluations and ongoing therapy adjustments in order to provide proper care is essential. A good care and proper therapy can provide dogs a good quality of life, and as a dog owner, you should take proper responsibility in order to ensure a normal life for your dog.