Cheap Pet Insurance

August 26th, 2009 by Moses Wright

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that can be potentially fatal if left untreated. Diabetes in dogs causes uncontrolled blood sugar levels. The dog owner can make the necessary changes to keep the dog’s blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

Diet and exercise are a vital part of diabetes management for dogs. With proper diabetes management, the dog may live a considerably long time and be happy and active.

There may be initial signs that a dog has developed diabetes. Those with diabetes often experience an increase in thirst and drinking as well as urination.

Diabetes mellitus must be diagnosed by a veterinarian. The veterinarian may want to do blood or urine tests and may require the dog to be fasting at the time of the test.

Diabetic dog diets need to be consistent and scheduled. A specific routine for feeding the dog at administering the insulin is likely to be prescribed by the veterinarian.

Fiber and complex carbohydrates are key ingredients for diabetic dog diets. If the dog should lose weight, the veterinarian may recommend dog food that is low in fat.

Diabetic dog diets need to be consistent. Feeding a dog treats, table scraps, or making homemade dog food are considered potentially dangerous for dogs with diabetes since these can cause too much variation in the contents of the dog’s diet.

Drastic changes in the dog’s weight should be avoided. Managing diabetes in dogs can be easier if the dog maintains an ideal weight. Any necessary weight loss should be done gradually.

Regular checkups by a veterinarian are necessary for dogs with diabetes. The dog owner may have a number of questions regarding the management of diabetes in dogs. The dog owner should feel comfortable asking the veterinarian any questions they may have.

In addition to regular veterinarian visits, the dog owner can test the dog’s urine for sugar with testing strips. The veterinarian may instruct the dog owner on testing without urine and making any necessary adjustments in the dog insulin.

Diabetes management for dogs can benefit from regular exercise. Consistent exercise helps keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range. Having a regular daily amount of exercise such as half an hour a day is best.