Caring for Your Diabetic Dog

Some dogs will develop diabetes for any number of reasons. And while diabetes can make life a little more difficult with proper veterinary care, medication,and some extra time it doesn’t have to put life on hold or diminish your diabetic dog’s quality of life. Most important is that you don’t have to give your dog up just because it has developed diabetes. You can help your dog and keep the bills to a minimum if you follow some simile tips.

Here are helpful tips for caring for a diabetic dog. These tips will help your diabetic dog feel his or her best and enjoy a healthy and happy life. Like with humans a high quality diet can help keep your dog off of medication or keep them on a lower dose which means each vial will last longer.

Tips for Caring for a Diabetic Dog

Pay attention to food ingredients.
Make sure your dog is eating a food that is high in good protein and necessary vitamins. Opt for a higher quality instead of a bargain brand. This way, whenever your dog eats you know he is getting the nutrients and minerals he deserves. While all carbs don’t need to be eliminatedc from your dog’s diet a grain free diet might be the best option. Like with any other medical diagnosis speak with your vet about the best options for your dog and your current lifestyle.



Watch the amount of food you feed.
Don’t just randomly feed your dog. Be sure to follow feeding instructions, using a measuring cup if need be. Keep feedings consistent and document feedings so you have a record on hand. Treat ingredients should follow the same guidelines as food ingredients high protein high quality ingredients. Treats should be given on a schedule as well.



Always leave out fresh water!
Diabetic Dogs need a regular supply of clean fresh water. Changing the water in their bowl at least twice a day and monitoring water intake. Are important steps in keeping your dog healthy.



Be aware of the time you feed.
Your diabetic dog should eat at the same time each and every day. This will help your dog properly digest his meal and keep his or her glucose levels in check especially if you are feeding the same foods each day. This is where your daily documentation can really help.



Exercise daily.
Help your dog regulate digestion and glucose production by getting exercise each day, at the same time if at all possible. Document if what you do and when you do it, if you think it will be helpful. Consistency is key when dealing with any disease or illness to help your dog stay as healthy and happy as possible.



Regular Vet Visits
You might not want to spend the money to go to the vet as often as the vet recommends but you are much better off sticking to a regular schedule so that your vet can monitor your dog. Well visits are a fraction of the cost of sick visits and even those are a fraction of the cost of emergency visits. With a diabetic dog the situation can escalate from needing to see a vet to an emergency situation quickly. When emergency situations arise at least during regular business hours they are more likely to cut you a break on Emergency Fees if your diabetic dog has been seen on a regular basis. The reasons are many but in the end it benefits you and your dog because the vet is more familiar with your dog and your routine for your dog.



Diabetes can cause challenges, but it doesn’t have to stop your fun. Give these tips a try and see how helpful you can be in controlling your dog’s diabetes. Remember too that you can always talk with your vet for more great tips that can help you see to your dog’s health and happiness.