Symptoms & Treatments of Diabetes: How to Give Your Pooch a Clean Bill of Health

Dog are susceptible to health problems, just like their human counterparts. Many problems are genetic and are associated with the breed of the dog. Other problems are caused by unhealthy eating habits, animals and insect bites, or lack of exercise. Diabetes is a growing health concern that has been affecting humans and animals alike. There are ways to tell if your pet is experiencing the effects of diabetes and ways to treat it.

Diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes found in dogs and is related to the hormone, insulin. Insulin functions as a regulator for blood glucose levels in the body. Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose in the blood: either the body is not producing enough insulin (Type I) or the body has become insensitive to the insulin (Type II). Much of the time, Type 2 is caused by poor dieting often resulting in other health issues that can lead to diabetes. Neither types can be cured, but they both can and should be treated.

There are many symptoms associated with diabetes. Lethargy, weight loss (even though he’s still eating) and increased thirst and frequency of urination are all symptoms you can look for at home. If you suspect your pooch has diabetes, then take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. If left untreated, diabetes can put your pet’s life at risk. Your veterinarian will let you know what you need to do before the office visit. They often ask that your dog fast for 24 hours prior to your appointment. Once there, the veterinarian will examine samples of your dog’s blood and urine to measure the level of glucose. If diabetes is detected, then it’s important that you make a solid commitment to take care of your pooch. Diabetes is not curable, but it is treatable. Treatment requires extra love and care on your part.

Depending on the type of diabetes, there are different treatment methods. Your dog can be prescribed oral medication and be placed on a strict diet and exercise program. If you have a female pooch that has not been spayed, then your veterinarian will recommend spaying the dog, because of its effects on the dog’s hormones. The most common method is an insulin injection given to your pet once or twice a day. Your veterinarian will coach you in administering the injections. Although not necessary, training your dog with “sit” and “stay” commands will help with the injection process. If your dog is not trained, then you may need the help of another person for the first few days. Either way, your dog will adapt to the injections fairly quickly.

When you get ready to administer the insulin, don’t panic! Your dog trusts you, so if you’re nervous, then he may become nervous. Make him comfortable with a quick massage, or something you know that makes him relax. Some experts suggest warming the insulin in your hand, first. If warm insulin is preferred, then remember never to use a microwave or hot water to warm the insulin. After every injection, be sure to reward your pooch! Dogs create associations between items and feelings. If every injection is a bad experience, then your dog will be less willing to let you give him the shot. However, if he is given a treat or reward after every injection, then he’ll soon look forward to it. No matter what, never get angry with your pet. He does not enjoy the injections anymore than you do, but anger and negativity will only make things worse.

Make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions when administering the insulin. An overdose can be extremely harmful to your pet. If your pet seems weak or disorientated, then call your animal hospital immediately. They will tell you what you need to do. If given correctly, insulin can have a positive impact on your pet’s life. He will continue to be active and loving, and lead a healthy life.

Diabetes mellitus is an extremely common hormone disorder found in dogs. It is further broken into Type I and Type II diabetes. Insulin is a factor in both types, but each one is treated differently. If your dog is urinating frequently, drinking excessive amounts of water or being abnormally lazy, then you should take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. If diabetes is detected, then don’t panic! It’s treatable! Your veterinarian can put your on an suitable treatment plan that will allow your dog to live a long and happy life.