What is Diabetes in Dogs?
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease in dogs characterized by impaired insulin function leading to high blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes in dogs:
Type 1 diabetes is when the pancreas stops producing insulin completely. This is the most common type seen in dogs. It is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. Dogs with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin injections to regulate blood sugar levels (AVMA).
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance – where the body still produces some insulin but cannot utilize it effectively. This type is less common in dogs. Dogs with type 2 diabetes may be managed through diet, exercise and oral medication initially but many will eventually require insulin injections (AKC).
Common symptoms of diabetes in dogs include increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, increased appetite, and lethargy. Diagnosis is made through blood tests checking glucose levels as well as tests for urinary glucose (VCA Animal Hospitals).
Does My Dog Need Insulin for Diabetes?
Insulin plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels in the body. In dogs with diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot properly utilize the insulin that is produced (source – https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/diabetes-mellitus-insulin-treatment-in-dogs). This results in high blood sugar, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Whether insulin injections are required depends on the severity of the diabetes. Mild cases may be managed through diet and exercise alone. However, most diabetic dogs will require daily insulin injections to control blood sugar and prevent complications (source – https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/managing-canine-diabetes).
The type and dosage of insulin is determined by your veterinarian based on your dog’s individual needs. Getting their recommendation on the appropriate insulin regimen is important for managing your dog’s diabetes. Some dogs may respond better to certain types of insulin than others.
Giving Insulin Injections to Dogs
Giving insulin injections to diabetic dogs may seem daunting at first, but with some knowledge and practice it can become a normal part of your routine. Here are some tips for administering insulin properly and making the process easier on you and your dog:
Insulin should be injected just under your dog’s skin in areas with plenty of loose skin that can form a tent, such as the neck, armpits, or hips. Pinch up the skin to make a tent and quickly insert the needle, being careful not to hit muscle. Push the plunger down slowly and hold for 3-5 seconds before removing the needle. Gently massage the area afterward.
To make injections easier, establish a calming routine like giving your dog a treat afterward or playing music during. Give praise and stay relaxed, as your energy will affect your dog. Try different locations to rotate through so no one area gets too sensitive.
It’s crucial to follow proper storage guidelines for insulin. Keep it refrigerated but do not freeze, and avoid direct light exposure. Discard opened vials after 30 days. Let refrigerated insulin reach room temperature before injecting to maximize absorption. Gently roll vials before use but do not shake vigorously.https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/diabetes/diabetes-insulin-dog
With some preparation and care, insulin injections can simply become part of living well with a diabetic dog.
Monitoring Your Diabetic Dog
Properly monitoring a diabetic dog is crucial for their health and wellbeing. There are three main aspects of monitoring a diabetic dog at home:
Checking blood sugar at home: Use a glucometer designed for pets to check your dog’s blood sugar. Test when they wake up, before meals, and every 4-6 hours. Target blood sugar is 80-150 mg/dL before meals. Keep detailed records to discuss with your vet [1].
Diet and weight management: Diabetic dogs should be fed consistent, high-fiber, low-fat food on a schedule. Avoid high glycemic foods. Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity makes diabetes harder to control. Consult your vet on an optimal diet [2].
Exercise requirements: Exercise helps manage blood sugar and weight. Low-impact exercise like short walks is ideal. Avoid strenuous exercise right after insulin injections. Work closely with your vet on safe exercise routines for your dog.
With proper monitoring and care at home, diabetic dogs can live happy, healthy lives.
Cost of Insulin for Diabetic Dogs
The cost of insulin for diabetic dogs can vary widely depending on the type of insulin, your veterinarian, and pharmacy. However, most owners can expect to spend $40 to $150 per month on insulin alone[1]. Some of the factors that affect the monthly cost include:
- Brand of insulin – Some brands are more expensive than others.
- Dosage required – The amount of insulin needed will depend on your dog’s weight and severity of diabetes.
- Buying from your vet vs. pharmacy – Vets may charge a dispensing fee, making the cost higher.
- Supplies – Syringes, needles, glucose monitoring strips, ketone strips, and sharps containers are ongoing costs.
- Vet monitoring – Testing and check-ups every 1-3 months quickly add up.
There are several ways to manage the costs of caring for a diabetic dog:
- Use a pharmacy – Getting insulin from an online pet pharmacy is usually cheaper than buying directly through your vet.
- Apply for financial assistance – Some organizations offer grants and assistance programs for owners who cannot afford insulin.
- Use coupons when available – Occasionally coupons are available to save money on supplies.
- Buy in bulk when possible – Buying larger quantities of supplies at once yields savings.
- Consider pet insurance – Plans that cover diabetes care can offset costs.
While treating a diabetic dog is expensive, consistent care and monitoring is essential. Working with your vet and exploring cost-saving options will help make care affordable long-term.
Diet for Diabetic Dogs
The recommended diet for diabetic dogs focuses on providing consistent meals with the right nutrients. This helps stabilize blood glucose levels and avoid complications.
Recommended Diets and Foods
Veterinarians usually recommend a high-fiber, low-fat diet for diabetic dogs [1]. Fiber slows digestion and the absorption of glucose, while lower fat levels help dogs lose excess weight. Specially formulated commercial diets for diabetic dogs provide the right balance of nutrients [2].
Homemade diets can also be used if properly balanced. They should contain carbohydrate sources like barley, oats, and rye, quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or eggs, and fiber from vegetables [3]. Avoid high glycemic foods like white rice or potatoes.
Feeding Schedule
Feeding smaller, consistent meals every 12 hours helps regulate blood glucose curves in diabetic dogs [2]. Work with your veterinarian to determine the right meal amounts based on your dog’s needs.
Avoiding Complications
It’s crucial to avoid large fluctuations in blood glucose. Don’t miss or delay scheduled feedings. Count carbohydrates to keep amounts consistent. Give insulin and food simultaneously. Check glucose curves to ensure stability.
Treats should be low fat, high fiber, and accounted for in daily calorie limits. Avoid high fat or sugary people food. Work closely with your veterinarian to optimize your dog’s diet.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Making some changes to your diabetic dog’s lifestyle can help manage the condition and keep your dog happy and healthy. Establishing a consistent routine is important, as changes in schedule can disrupt insulin regulation. Try to feed your dog at the same times every day and administer insulin injections on a regular timeline. Avoiding stressful situations is also beneficial, as stress leads to blood sugar spikes in diabetic dogs. Minimize exposing your dog to loud noises, unfamiliar places, or other distressing circumstances. Getting adequate exercise is another key lifestyle factor. Taking your dog on two 20-30 minute walks per day helps regulate blood sugar and promotes weight loss to improve diabetes management. Check with your vet on the best exercise plan for your individual dog. Overall, sticking to a steady routine, avoiding stress, and ensuring proper physical activity through walks, playtime, or other exercise will aid your diabetic dog’s health and quality of life. With some simple lifestyle adjustments, you can help your dog thrive with diabetes.
Long Term Outlook
With proper treatment and management, dogs with diabetes can live happy lives for many years. The median survival time for diabetic dogs is around 2 years from diagnosis, but some live much longer with careful monitoring and insulin therapy. According to sources, “the expected lifespan of a dog being treated for diabetes is approximately 15 to 20 months.” However, stories of dogs living 5 years or longer are not uncommon with diligent at-home care and regular veterinary checkups.
Maintaining your diabetic dog’s quality of life is key. Keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range with insulin, providing a consistent feeding schedule, ensuring adequate exercise, and weighing your dog weekly are important ways owners can enable their pets to thrive. Work closely with your veterinarian to make adjustments to insulin dosing, diet, and lifestyle based on your individual dog’s needs over time.
While challenging, living with and managing a diabetic dog is very possible. Monitor for signs of highs and lows in blood sugar and be prepared to intervene if necessary. With commitment from pet parents and guidance from veterinary professionals, diabetic dogs can continue to enjoy life for years to come.
Signs of Diabetic Emergencies
Two serious emergencies diabetic dogs can experience include hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Hypoglycemia happens when the dog doesn’t get enough food or receives too much insulin. Early symptoms include lethargy, unsteadiness, and weakness. More severe symptoms can lead to seizures or coma. With DKA, high blood glucose and excess ketones occur. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and rapid breathing. Both conditions can become life-threatening (PetMD).
It’s crucial to monitor your diabetic dog closely and watch for any emergency signs. Sudden weakness, stumbling, disorientation, heavy panting or breathing difficulties warrant an immediate vet visit, even in the middle of the night. Time is of the essence with both hypoglycemia and DKA. The longer treatment is delayed, the higher the risk of permanent neurological damage or even death.
Preventing emergencies involves carefully managing your dog’s insulin therapy, diet, and activity. Feed consistent amounts on a set schedule, administer insulin at the same times daily, and monitor blood glucose frequently. Consult your vet if you notice any concerning symptoms or blood sugar fluctuations. With close management, many diabetic dogs can live happy, healthy lives.
Living Well with a Diabetic Dog
Living with a diabetic dog requires some adjustments, but you can absolutely still enjoy a happy life together. The keys are creating a supportive home environment and providing excellent daily care for your dog.
To create a good home setup, establish a consistent daily routine for your diabetic dog including regular mealtimes, insulin injections, and exercise. Have a specific place for storing insulin, syringes, glucose meter, etc. Consider keeping water and low-calorie treats available around the house. Baby gate areas off limits to your dog.
Providing great care means monitoring your dog closely, giving insulin properly, testing blood sugar when needed, and feeding the right diet. Take your dog to the vet regularly and watch for signs of high or low blood sugar. Weigh your dog weekly and keep records of insulin doses, glucose levels, behavior, appetite, etc. to spot patterns.
While living with a diabetic dog takes diligence, remember to enjoy your time together! Find fun games and enriching toys to engage your dog mentally and physically. Snuggle and pet your pup. Take them on walks to smell new scents. Let them happily roll in the grass! With proper care, diabetic dogs can live long, high-quality lives.
For more tips, see the excellent resources at Molecure Pet Vets and Care.com.