Its All About Dogs |
| Dogs Diabetes:Facts You Should Know Posted: 22 Oct 2009 06:06 AM PDT Diabetes in dogs is common dog disease. In fact, one in 500 dogs develops diabetes. Although this can be a serious disease, it is also manageable. Diabetes in dogs is typically seen between the ages of 4-14 years old, with a peak incidence at 7-9 years of age. Although diabetes can occur in both male and female dogs, unsprayed females are at a slightly higher risk. There are certain breeds of dogs that are more likely to develop diabetes than others. Samoyeds, Pugs, Golden Retrievers, Miniature or Toy Poodles, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles, Cairn and Australian Terriers and Miniature Pinschers, Keeshonden, and Pulik breeds are known to be among that group. If you notice that your dog is drinking or eating excessively, or that he is urinating more than usual it may be a sign that he has diabetes. You may also notice that your dog may be losing weight. A diabetic dog may also develop cataracts on their eyes. You may notice that your dog's eyes seem to be turning white. This is an indication of cataract development. If this happens, the light is unable to pass through the lens in the eye and your dog will become blind. Although it is possible to have the cataracts surgically removed, vision is restored in only 75-80% of dogs. However, you will find that even if your dog does become blind, he will probably still be able to get around fairly well in his home environment. If you do note that your dog has any of the symptoms above, you should bring it to the attention of your veterinarian. By testing your dog's blood glucose and urine, he will be able to confirm if your pet has this disease. Your veterinarian may do additional tests to see if your dog may have other medical problems that are associated diabetes in dogs. These may include tests for urinary tract infection, inflammation of the pancreas, Cushing's disease, thyroid disease or even cancer. Diabetic dogs can also suffer from heart or kidney disease and anemia. Your vet may do a chest x-ray, and an x-ray or ultrasound of the abdomen to test for these problems, as well as the typical blood and urine tests. Diabetes is another dog health problem that needs attention. It is important to see signs and symptoms at the early stage. If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, your vet will probably recommend a special diet and possibly injection or pharmaceutical intervention. Your dog may also be put on a reducing regime if he is overweight. Overweight dogs are typically more prone to developing diabetes, just like their human counterparts. Your dog's weight will need to be reduced gradually through a diet and exercise program, probably over the course of a few months. Exercise "burns up" blood glucose in the same way insulin does. By providing your dog with an exercise routine will also help manage dog's diabetes. Your dog will need to be on a fairly consistent exercise routine because this can affect the amount of insulin your dog will need. It is important to point out that if your dog is taking insulin regularly; changing his activity level may cause your dog to have a hypoglycemic episode (low blood sugar). This in turn can affect how much insulin he needs. It is up to you to monitor your dog's blood glucose levels, especially if you plan on taking your dog out for extra exercise, like swimming or extra play at the dog park. You should then change his insulin dose accordingly. 
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