DIABETES IN DOGS

Overview:

Diabetes mellitus is a disease of the endocrine system. It is caused by a deficiency of insulin -- the hormone that regulates how sugar is absorbed and utilized by the cells and tissues of the body. Highest occurrences are found in dogs between the ages of 5 to 7, and female dogs appear to be more susceptible. Most affected dogs are obese. It is the most common hormonal disorder in dogs.

Common Symptoms -- Dogs with diabetes frequently:

• drink more water
• go to the bathroom more frequently (may start to urinate in the house)
• begin to lose weight
• Have increased occurance of urinary tract infections

Next Steps:

Though there is no cure for diabetes, treatment includes daily injections of insulin and a careful change in diet. An increased awareness of your dogs intake as well as feeding schedule is essential. Foods high in fiber and protein, with restricted fats and carbohydrates are best. What they eat and when they eat it will effect the dog’s sugar/insulin levels.

Recommended Foods:

• Evanger's® 100% all meat grain-free canned diets.
• Halshan Premium Raw Food® provides your dog with a healthy foundation of fresh meats, organ meats, vegetables, and nutrient rich bones.
• Ask a Muttropolis associate about what supplements to add to make a complete and balanced meal for your dog.
• Nature’s Variety® Raw Diets 100% all meat grain-free raw diets in several proteins

Recommended Supplements:

Always contact your veterinarian first, but generally a diabetic dog supplement should combine the right herbs and other natural ingredients to help regulate blood sugar. This will help manage your dog's insulin requirements and slow their metabolic rate. A good diabetic dog supplement should contain items like brewers yeast to help the dog to use blood glucose more effectively, garlic to stimulate digestive function, and kelp, which is another digestive aid.