Dogs with diabetes require insulin medication in addition to a proper diet and regular exercise, so as to reduce high amounts of blood sugar. Controlling blood sugar amounts is important because it can reduce the risk of pets developing serious health conditions that could be life threatening. Looking after a dog with diabetes can be overwhelming. This is because it requires you to monitor their blood sugar regularly, to give them the right amount of insulin, and to ensure they are fed properly with the right diet. If you make any changes to these factors, it could adversely affect the health of your dog. To prevent the risk of an emergency, it is important you give your dog insulin as it is directed by your veterinarian. To reduce the risk of double dosing, it is important that 1 person be charged with the task of administering insulin to your diabetic dog.
Insulin overdose symptoms in dogs
Sometimes accidental insulin overdose can occur. This may require your pet to be taken for emergency treatment. Hypoglycemia is the most common effect of insulin overdose in dogs. Hypoglycemia refers to a serious health condition, which occurs when your dog’s blood sugar falls too low. Initially, hypoglycemia may result in symptoms such as lethargy, sleepiness, anxiety, and hunger, which can be followed by convulsions, muscle twitching, coma, or death. It is important you are able to notice these symptoms of hypoglycemia, so that you can take the necessary actions to prevent it from getting worse. If your diabetic dog is able to eat, you can feed them with food that contains carbs and then you should take them to a nearby animal hospital for emergency treatment.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Pet owners should also learn to administer a glucagon pen.
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Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
