by Barb Hicks
Dogs can in fact become afflicted with diabetes. In general, older dogs and certain breeds such as Poodles, Old English Sheepdogs, Golden Retrievers, Daschunds, Miniature Pinscher, Schnauzer and Beagles are the most affected.
Diabetes is defined as the non production of insulin with increased glucose levels in the blood. In order to remedy this situation, insulin must be given. Luckily, there is specific insulin produced for canine use.
Two forms of Diabetes:
Diabetes Insipidus: Is the lack of the anti-diuretic hormone called Vasopressin. Vasopressin controls how the kidneys absorb water.
Diabetes Mellitus (DM): Is insulin insufficiency. It is the most common and the most dangerous for dogs.
Diabetes is comprised of two types:
Type 1 – Is insulin dependent diabetes. The pancreas is not making insulin at all. Type 1 is seen mostly in younger dogs.
Type 2 – Is non insulin dependent diabetes. The pancreas is making insulin but the body is resistant to it. This type is mostly seen in older dogs.
Diabetes can be genetic, meaning it can be passed from parent to puppy. Furthermore, bigger dogs run a much higher risk of attaining the disease than smaller dogs.
Symptoms:
You may notice that your dog is:
Eating more Drinking more Weighing less Diagnostic Testing:
If your dog is showing symptoms of this disease, a visit to the vet is in order. The vet will conduct blood tests to check your pet’s glucose level. He will also do a urinalysis to check for kidney function and urinary tract infection. If your pet is positive for diabetes, changes in diet and getting more exercise will aid in reducing the symptoms and prevent complications.
Treatment:
Fido will most likely be put on a diet that is high in fiber and protein. Fats and carbohydrates will be restricted. Depending on the severity of your dog’s disease, you may need to feed him prepared meals instead of what is regularly eaten. Proper nutrition given the same time each day will help to keep glucose levels as normal as possible. Insulin is given after meals, and it is important not to limit your pet’s fluid intake. Let him have his fill.
Exercise:
A daily exercise routine performed at the same time daily aids in keeping glucose levels down as well as preventing fluctuation. By doing this, you will keep your dogs glucose levels within normal range on a consistent basis.
An additional risk factor for diabetes is hormonal changes in female dogs. This can be prevented by having your dog spayed to remove this risk.
