Chance presents... How to Care for Your Diabetic Dog

The first week

• You’ll probably feel frightened and in shock when you learn your dog has diabetes. This is completely natural. You will start to feel better as your dog starts to improve and as you learn more about the disease and how to care for your pet.
• Your friends and family might not understand. It’s hard for anyone not in your situation to understand your feelings about your dog and this new illness. Diabetes is diagnosed and treated in thousands of pets every year. There are a lot of diabetic pet owners who feel exactly as you do and who do learn to cope.
• Your vet is your new best friend, at least for awhile. Make sure your vet has experience with diabetic animals, or is willing to learn the latest techniques for diabetes management. You should also educate yourself as much as possible about canine diabetes.
• Diabetes is treatable. With knowledgeable care from you and your vet, there is no reason why diabetes should prevent most pets from enjoying a long and healthy life.

The first month

• Changes in your dog’s diet. Your dog now needs the most wholesome food you can afford. In conjunction with your vet, find a healthful dog food that is low in sugar and fat. You can still give your pet treats—just make sure they are low/no sugar treats and that you give your dog a consistent amount each day.
• You are establishing a routine for your dog’s insulin, diet and exercise. Regular and consistent meals, injections and walks or play time are very important in keeping your dog’s blood glucose at a healthy level.
• You’ve taken your dog to a vet ophthalmologist. Some dogs may develop diabetes-related cataracts, so it’s very important to have a qualified vet ophthalmologist examine your dog’s eyes. Discuss with the eye doctor preventative measures to avoid complications, and options should your dog start to develop cataracts.
• You are learning more about monitoring your dog. You have learned about the dangers of hypoglycemia and monitor your pet carefully for any signals. You’re keeping track of your dog’s water intake and urination to see if they are excessive. You may be learning how to do simple urine or blood tests at home. You may be keeping a chart of your pet’s progress. Every dog is different and every dog owner develops different ways of caring for and monitoring their pet.
• You’re frustrated! Maybe your dog has not improved as quickly as you had hoped, or you are finding the injection routine is difficult or interferes with your social life. Don’t worry. Properly regulating your dog takes time, and learning to live with the rules and routines of diabetes also takes patience.
• The rewards of returning your pet to good health are worth the temporary frustrations. The first time your dog picks up a toy and wants to play again, or licks your face in happiness, you’ll remember that your dog is worth the extra effort.

Provided by Pat and Chance Johnson, Houston, TX.  ©January 2001. We are not vets —please consult yours.