How You Can Help Prevent
Diabetes in Dogs
Diabetes and Cushing’s disease share many of the same signs. Expert diagnosis is
needed to differentiate between the two.

Diabetes in dogs is a scary diagnosis. Pet owners who are concerned about preventing diabetes should have blood sugar tests carried out on a yearly basis. Early diagnosis can mean reversal of the disease.

Also to prevent the possible onset of diabetes, make sure that your dog is eating a healthy diet and getting proper exercise.

If you notice that your dog is becoming obese, take measures to get him or her back to a healthy weight. Since obesity and diabetes are linked, it only makes sense to control what your dog is eating.

Types of Diabetes in Dogs

While Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of humans, many people do not realize that Diabetes is also a serious issue that affects not only man, but also man’s best friend.

Canine diabetes results from malfunctioning of the endocrine glands. There are two types of diabetes in dogs: Diabetes insipidus and Diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus stems from an inability of the kidneys to conserve water.

On the other hand, Diabetes mellitus, aka sugar diabetes, results from deficient insulin. Not only is Diabetes mellitus more common, it is also more harmful. Similarly to humans, dogs can get either Diabetes 1, often called juvenile dog diabetes, or Diabetes 2.

Symptoms Of Canine Diabetes

So how do you determine if your dog might have Diabetes? Among the dog diabetes symptoms, pet parents typically notice that their dogs are urinating much more frequently. This is triggered by an excess of glucose in the urine.

All this urinating leads to dehydration causing the pet to be very thirsty and constantly at his water bowl. This is the body's way of trying to flush the excess sugar out with the urine.

They may start having accidents in the house around the onset of the disease. Other signs of canine diabetes include:

Lethargy
Cataracts and
even sudden blindness.

Heart problems and circulatory problems can also be the result of the disease. Tragically, if left untreated, diabetes can eventually result in a dog’s loss of life.

However, with careful management of diabetes, your pet can lead a normal, healthy life.

Causes

Diabetes in dogs is considered a disease that is based on genetics. The pancreas doesn’t secrete the proper amount of insulin needed to use the glucose that the body produces. There is no exact cause that is linked to canine diabetes.

However, there are some markers that might determine how likely your dog is to get diabetes. For example:

Female dogs are more likely to get the disease.
Larger dogs are more likely to get diabetes.
Further, most dogs that get diabetes are obese.

Diabetes in dogs can also be brought on by Cushing’s disease or Pancreatitis.

Waiting for the Vet

Treatment of Canine Diabetes

The treatment of diabetes in dogs is typically handled by daily injections of insulin. The amount of insulin that is given to a dog needs to be calibrated according to the glucose levels and may take several adjustments.

Owners can test their dog’s urine at home for glucose levels with test strips, or optionally a blood glucose meter - for easier and more precise results.

PetTest Glucose Monitoring System | Blood Sugar Check Kit for Dogs & Cats - Full Kit Includes 25 Test Strips, 25 Lancets, Red Dot Lancing Device, Glucose Meter, Carrying Case

While the administration of shots is not an enjoyable task, owners of diabetic dogs are usually committed to their dog's well-being and happily take over this responsibility along with the necessary testing, to control the disease and help their dog function normally.

There are some oral drugs that are commonly prescribed to help dogs with type 2 diabetes. These drugs are designed to either help the pancreas make more insulin or they are meant to allow the body to more effectively use the insulin it produces. However, if you have a dog with type 1 diabetes, the beta cells can’t produce insulin at all. Therefore, an injection is necessary.

Diet is a big factor in treating diabetes in dogs. It is important to give your dog foods high in protein and fiber, and restrict fats and carbohydrates. Also make sure that your dog is getting enough exercise and stick to a consistent routine.

Alternative Remedies To Consider

There are some alternative remedies that have shown to be beneficial in treating diabetes in dogs.

For example, if apple cider vinegar is added to your dog’s water it can boost the effects of any medicine he or she is taking.

You can also sprinkle cinnamon into your dog’s food. Cinnamon is said to work as a substitute for insulin in the blood and controls blood sugar.

Herbs including turmeric, fenugreek, and bitter melon have been shown to lower a dog’s glucose levels.

Interactive

Bilberry is also an essential remedy for dogs with diabetes, as it can help to prevent cataracts.

Another extremely beneficial herb that works with diabetic dogs is called Karela. This herb is considered to be effective in maintaining glucose levels in the blood. Karela also stimulates the pancreas to work effectively.

Bejak, it another herb that dog owners are administering to their dogs with diabetes. Bejak not only helps to reduce glucose in the blood, but also may prevent deterioration of the organs.

Diabetic Dogs Need Your Love and Support

One of the most important things that you can do to benefit your dog is to provide lots of love.

Dogs need to feel safe, and they will appreciate any support that you offer. In fact, a dog’s body will be more likely to function properly if he or she is feeling loved and cared for.

If you maintain your dog’s condition properly through medicine, herbs, exercise and diet, he or she can live a long healthy life even with Diabetes.

Lastly, the quicker dog owners are able to recognize dog illnesses and implement treatment, the better chance their pet has of beating a disease and returning to good health.

I recommend owners obtain a copy of Veterinary Secrets: Natural Health for Dogs and Cats . This book, written by a qualified vet contains information about numerous dog health issues, useful home remedies, plus advice about which dog illnesses need a prompt consultation with a pet professional.

How You Can Help Prevent Diabetes in Dogs Diabetes and Cushing’s disease share many of the same signs. Expert diagnosis is needed to differentiate between the two.