Diabetes in dogs can be just as debilitating and serious as it is in humans. If you are noting that your dog is excessively thirsty, always urinating, unanswered reasons for gaining or losing weight, vomiting, sores that won’t heal, and loss of sight, your beloved dog may just have diabetes and need to get to the Vet for his personal diagnosis and treatment plan.
The causes for diabetes are a little more complex and involve the pancreas which produces insulin for the body of humans as well as dogs. If the pancreas gets damaged, the immune system fails to work properly, at which time the insulin production is either decreased or terminated altogether. Other possible causes can be dogs with a lethargic lifestyle or are overweight. There can be other causes such as age related, drug related problems and even a genetic problem.
If you notice any of the signs and symptoms, you need to take an active interest in getting your dog into the Vet as soon as possible so that the diabetes does not have a chance to progress and grow. Your canine family member can still live a very long, healthy and productive life with proper diet and treatment per the advice of your vet. After all, your dog is your loyal, trusting and lovable companion is worth all it takes to get him feeling in as much tip top shape as possible. It all starts with our understanding of the diabetes and how to care for out loving pet.
Frequent vet visits will be mandatory in keeping your pet in a controlled and healthy state. According to the severity of the diabetes, your vet will know what medications and how much to administer, which requires monitoring. It will be up to you to follow “Doctor’s Orders” and administer the correct dosage to your dog daily whether it is in the form of a shot for more severe cases or pills for managing the disease.
Exercise is also very important. This allows the dog to manage his insulin level by keeping him active. Should he feel sluggish after a walk or any time throughout the day, you can try a drop of healthy honey or something your vet may suggest. I have a small dog that gets sluggish occasionally and I have to add a drop or two of honey to his food a couple of times a week to keep up his sugar levels. All dogs are different and with a diabetic dog this can help a little, in a pinch, like giving a human a dose of something with sugar when they feel an attack coming on. Dogs cannot tell you how they feel–so the more educated you get, you may be able to see all the signs and signals.
Diet is very important, and should provide high fiber, low-fat and all the necessary nutrients, supplemented with a multi vitamin. The quantity of food you give your dog will need to be monitored as well, besides coordinating the feeding schedule around shots and/or medications.
If you follow all of these guidelines, and have a close relationship with your vet, your dog can live a really good and productive life. For further information on this disease, causes, symptoms, treatments and more, go to DiabetesInDogs.Net.
Good luck with your loving and very loyal companion and to his good health.
