Articles on Family Health
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Understanding the basics of home
care helps to manage a diabetic dog effectively. Once the symptoms
of diabetes in dogs and cats have led to a confirmed diagnosis,
the goal of treatment for diabetes is to control the level of
glucose (sugar) in the blood. Efficient control can help your
pet in leading a comfortable life On the other hand uncontrolled
hyperglycemia (abnormally high blood sugar) can shorten life
span due to complications like kidney disease, retinopathy and
arteriosclerosis. Insulin Injections
* Insulin must be administered
at the time suggested by the veterinarian. Administration of
the correct recommended dose is also important. Try to keep the
dose as close as prescribed by understanding the markings on
the syringe that you are using. Note that the markings on syringes
may vary according to size of the syringe.
* Injections administered should
be subcutaneous and learning how to inject needs practice. Such
a skill comes easily once you have done it in front of the veterinarian
for a couple of times.
Monitoring Blood Sugar
* High sugar levels almost always
spill over to urine. Monitor how your dog responds to exogenous
insulin by using strips to test level of sugar in the urine.
A urine testing kit contains instructions about the change in
color of the strips once it is dipped in urine. Different colors
represent normal to danger zone of sugar level. In case of doubt,
consult your veterinarian.
* It is advisable to keep a record
of the test strip results and the amount of insulin injected.
A study of this record will help you in understanding the relation
between dosage and level of sugar in the urine and also give
a definite picture to veterinarian on your next visit.
Dietary Management
* Diet plays an extremely important
role in controlling blood sugar. Glucose is the primary source
of energy in the body and it cannot be totally avoided. Many
foods contain substances that are rich in sugar content even
if they are not sweet to taste. Feed your dog with a diet that
has high fiber content. A diet low in carbohydrates and fats
is also recommended. The meal time schedule is related to the
time of the insulin injections. Make sure you have discussed
this with the veterinarian.
Exercise
* Fix up a regular exercise regime
to help in maintaining blood sugar levels. Such a practice may
even lead to a reduction of insulin dosage over time. Make sure
that you carry some source of sugar like corn syrup or honey
in case of an insulin reaction especially when you are taking
your dog out for a walk or exercise. As soon as you see any symptoms
of hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood sugar) immediately rub
some on the gums and take him to the veterinarian immediately.
Diabetes is
a manageable disease and there is no reason why your canine friend
cannot survive and lead a normal, healthy and active life even
after being diagnosed as diabetic.
Get More Info on PetAlive GlucoBalance
for Treatment of Diabetes in Pets
Natural products for your pet's
health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies.
Visit
the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets'
health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives.
[This article is not intended
to treat or diagnosis ANY health condition. Always consult with
your veterinarian.]
