Diabetes in Dogs : Treatments

The main component in treating diabetes in dogs is their diet. A high-fiber, carb-moderate diet can put dog diabetes into remission. This means time to stop the table scraps and talk to your vet about the best dog food. Watch for foods that are advertised as light, as they tend to be higher in carbs than you want. Some vets will also prescribe insulin supplements for mealtimes, or a fat-restricted diet for dogs that also have pancreatitis. Occasionally, oral medications may be prescribed .

After your pet’s diet has been regulated, you may have to give your dog regular insulin injections. There are many animal and synthetic insulin brands used to treat diabetes in dogs. The most common is probably Caninsulin or Vetsulin, but don’t be surprised if your veterinarian prescribes a human insulin instead.

Treatment for diabetes in dogs should start slowly and conservatively, largely because an overdose of insulin can kill your dog in just minutes. You should buy a blood glucose meter for your dog and test him yourself, as urine strips aren’t accurate enough to monitor glucose levels. Follow your vet’s advice; they will probably tell you that your pet’s glucose level should remain between 100-180 mg/dL, preferably toward the lower end. Readings over 250 should be called in to the veterinarian, as that is where serious damage can result. It takes experience to maintain your dog’s glucose levels.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), marked by lethargy, confusion, loss of bladder and bowel control, vomiting, and seizures, can be treated by rubbing honey or corn syrup on your pet’s gums and rushing them to the vet. Continue rubbing the sweets on their gums on the way; this could be a lifesaving treatment. Low blood glucose (40 mg/dL) without symptoms should be treated by giving your pet treats right away. Allow your dog to drink as much water as they want, and don’t worry that their drinking too much.

With the proper care, your diabetic dog can have a normal and healthy life.