Dogs are more likely to develop diabetes as they age. This can be managed with the proper care. Here are the steps to take in order to manage your dog’s diabetes:
Have Regular Vet Care
Regular checkups are important to maintaining your dog’s health. This becomes especially true if your dog is diagnosed with diabetes. Your dog will need insulin injections in order to maintain their blood sugar. Your vet can help you to develop a plan in order to keep your dog healthy. They will be able to show you the correct dosage of insulin. They can even give you pointers on how to inject your dog with a minimal amount of fuss. Your vet is your best resource in coping with your dog’s diabetes.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
A part of managing diabetes is to eat a proper diet. Your dog will need to eat food that is high in fiber and proteins. This will enable them to maintain their blood sugar in between feedings. Avoid giving your dog food that is high in carbohydrates. You will also need to stick to a feeding schedule. Your dog may require smaller more frequent meals in order to stay healthy. Your vet will be able to give you guidance on how to handle these issues. They may even recommend a brand of dog food that will be best.
Establish an Exercise Routine
Moderate amounts of exercise are best in order to maintain your dog’s weight. Initially, your dog may be required to lose some weight. This will help them to better regulate their diabetes. A healthy body weight is crucial to maintaining overall good health. Depending on the age of your dog, some types of exercise may be better than others. Ask your vet for recommendations on the types and the amount of exercise that your dog will need. Make sure to feed your dog before taking them out for a walk. This way their blood sugar can be better maintained.
Watch for Warning Signs
Extreme blood sugar swings can be dangerous for your dog. You will need to monitor your dog every day. Your vet may ask that you check your dog’s blood sugar occasionally. This is to make sure that your dog can stay healthier longer. Some of the signs to watch for in your dog are being extremely hungry, thirsty, or having to relieve themselves frequently. These signs may require that you seek out emergency vet care, like that from the Seattle Emergency Veterinary Hospital. They could be a sign of a more serious condition. Too much insulin can cause seizures, dizziness, extreme tiredness, or even death.
Changing your dog’s lifestyle can help to prevent complications. Use these steps to manage your dog’s diabetes.