It’s a well-known fact that many people are diagnosed with diabetes each year. What some people may not realize is that dogs are also dealing with this disease. Canine diabetes (Canine Mellitus) is a serious illness which affects a great number of dogs. If correct medical treatment is given, however, these diabetic dogs can go on to lead happy and healthy lives.
Dogs with diabetes will generally show specific symptoms. Middle-aged to older dogs are more susceptible to the development of canine diabetes, but it can be found in younger dogs too. One symptom to watch out for is excessive thirst. You may notice your dog visiting his water bowl a lot more than usual. Another possible sign of diabetes is frequent urination. In this case, your dog needs to relieve himself more frequently than before. An increase in appetite combined with a loss in weight may also signal the onset of diabetes. Cataracts or blindness are two serious side effects of diabetes in dogs. You may notice that your dog’s eyes look different or that he has trouble seeing objects. If your dog has one or more of these symptoms, you should take him to the veterinarian for an evaluation. It’s important to realize, though, that these symptoms may occur with other illnesses as well. The veterinarian should be able to determine if your canine friend is suffering from diabetes or if something else is medically wrong with him.
The veterinarian will most likely check your dog’s urine for glucose and possibly draw a sample of blood. These tests are used to confirm the existence of diabetes when the above symptoms are noticeable or when your dog’s family history shows evidence of this disease. It’s important to determine the sugar level in your dog’s blood. If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes after the tests have been evaluated, you should discuss all possible treatments with your veterinarian. If you get the feeling that this particular vet does not have much experience dealing with canine diabetes, you may want to consider going elsewhere for further treatment. It is a good idea to find a vet clinic that has successfully treated other dogs with this disease.
The treatment for diabetes is generally divided into three specific parts. The three main components of diabetic treatment are medicine, diet and exercise. With the correct insulin dosage, the proper diet and a reasonable amount of exercise, it’s possible for your dog to live well despite his diabetes.
One essential part of the diabetic treatment process is the use of insulin injections. Based on your dog’s specific conditions and body weight, the veterinarian will recommend a certain amount of insulin. One type of insulin approved for the treatment of canine diabetes is Vetsulin which is now available with prescription at Allivet.com.
In order to insure correct dosing of insulin for your diabetic dog, you must use nothing other than U-40 syringes. If you have difficulties giving your dog the injections in the beginning, your vet should be able to assist you. Once an insulin treatment is underway, it is imperative that you monitor your dog closely. The vet may even suggest that you test your dog’s urine or blood to make sure that the insulin is working properly.
Another way to ease the effects of canine diabetes is through proper nutrition. Your dog’s diet should be discussed at length with the veterinarian. Generally, a diet low in fat and rich in complex carbohydrates works well. Your vet may also recommend that the dog food contain a medium to high level of fiber. There are prescription diets available which are especially formulated for a dog with canine diabetes. One example of this food is Purina DCO Diabetes Colitis Canine Formula which is available at Allivet.com.
Once you and the vet have decided which food to use, you must also arrange a feeding schedule. Your dog’s feeding schedule will most likely need to be given around the times of the insulin injections. It’s best to avoid people food and dog treats unless these items are allowed by the veterinarian.
Your dog’s overall treatment for diabetes should include plenty of healthy exercise. Since your dog may not be feeling his best, it’s important to adjust the length and intensity of his exercise. Daily walks and light playing should be fine. Always ask your dog’s doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
In conclusion, there are certain signs of canine diabetes of which dog owners need to be aware. Some symptoms to recognize are urinating too much, drinking excessively, eating a lot without gaining weight, and cataracts. If your dog has any of these symptoms, he should see a vet right away. If your dog has diabetes, a treatment process consisting of three parts should be started. The treatment of canine diabetes usually involves the use of insulin, proper nutrition and an exercise program. With proper care, there is a good chance that your dog will be back to his former self and continue to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
By J.S. Gordon - Copyright 2006 Allivet Trusted Pet Pharmacy.
