When your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what the future holds. Where do you even start? Dirigo Veterinary Care believes that the best place to start is with expert advice and treatment from a veterinarian. Our veterinary clinic in Waterville guides pet owners of diabetic dogs on what to expect and what long-term support looks like.
How Diabetes Affects Your Dog
Canine diabetes most commonly occurs when the pancreas no longer produces enough insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar. Without sufficient insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of fueling the body’s cells, leading to symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and fatigue.
Diabetes in dogs can also occur if their bodies become resistant to insulin, which can happen, especially in overweight pets.
Treatment Options for Diabetic Dogs
Every diabetic dog will be a little different. Canines can develop different types of diabetes, and for different reasons. Age and other medical conditions can affect the treatment that your pet needs. That being said, there are components of diabetes management that your dog will likely need.
Insulin Injections
Most diabetic dogs require insulin twice daily. While this can seem daunting at first, injections are quick, and most dogs adjust with minimal stress.
Specialized Diet
Diet directly affects blood sugar control. Prescription diets for diabetic dogs may be recommended to slow glucose absorption and support weight stability.
Exercise and Routine Activity
Regular, moderate exercise prevents weight gain and supports insulin effectiveness. Avoid drastic changes in activity, which can impact blood sugar levels.
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Routine check-ups with diagnostics and at-home monitoring (when needed) allow us to fine-tune treatment. Your vet may recommend periodic glucose curves, blood tests, and/or urine tests.
Long-Term Canine Diabetes Management
Caring for a diabetic dog becomes part of your daily rhythm. For the long-term, you’ll need to think about:
- Ongoing vet check-ups to adjust insulin and assess general health
- Watching for complications like cataracts or urinary tract infections
- Being mindful of behavior changes that might indicate imbalances in blood sugar
- Support as your dog ages; care needs may evolve over time
Knowing that this is all part of your pet’s care routine now means it’s time to think about budgeting. The first couple months are likely to be the most expensive, with several trips to the vet and getting all the necessary supplies. Over time, the costs will even out, so you can create a solid monthly budget allotment for your diabetic dog’s care. Consider building a financial cushion, if you are able, in case any complications arise that require an emergency vet visit.
Treatment for Diabetic Dogs in Waterville, ME
A diabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean the end of joy-filled days or tail-wagging adventures. Dogs with diabetes often go on to enjoy many more years of good health. Dirigo Veterinary Care diagnoses and treats diabetic dogs in Waterville, including canines from Fairfield, Winslow, Waterville, and neighboring Maine areas. If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes or is showing symptoms, schedule an appointment at Dirigo Veterinary Care.