Get the facts about Diabetes in Dogs

Let’s face it, when you buy a dog, the thought of any illnesses further down the line is something that most of us don’t anticipate. To discover that our pooch has a disease can be heartbreaking and traumatic. But fear not, the effects of diabetes in dogs are very similar to those of an adult and are much easier to manage than you first think.

If you have recently discovered that your dog has diabetes, know that lots of dogs live a normal and active life. Although Diabetes is incurable, depending on the severity of the condition, diabetes in dogs is easily managed through time, commitment, medication and the managing of your dog’s diet.

Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in dogs and it occurs when the body fails to respond to the hormone insulin.
The organ held responsible for not doing its job properly is the pancreas – the small organ near the stomach. When a normal dog eats her food is broken down into tiny components, one of those components is carbohydrates.

When the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, the glucose fails to get into your dog’s cells and builds up to a dangerous unhealthy level, this can lead to other conditions in your dog health such as cataracts.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs

Luckily, there are lots of signs that might point you in the right direction when diagnosing your dog with Diabetes. Bear in mind that these symptoms won’t necessarily occur at the same time. If you are concerned about your dog’s health and notice any of the below signs, take her to a vet straight away.

• Increased urination

• Excessive thirst

• Weight loss

• Increased appetite

If left untreated, diabetes can advance and you may notice these symptoms:

• Sweet smelling breath

• Kidney failure

• Cataracts

• Skin infections

Although the first few weeks after your dog diagnosed with diabetes may incur some disruption in your life, your vet will set about creating a management plan for you both, and things will settle down rather quickly.