Visiting the vet was in order. I described what had been going on: the puddles in the floor, Chloe’s unexplained weight loss, and her insatiable thirst. I think the vet knew the diagnosis immediately, but she said, “OK, I’m going to run some tests.”
Moments later, we had our answer: Chloe was diabetic.
My husband and I looked at each other in disbelief. Neither of us had ever heard of canine diabetes, but here it was, staring us in the eyes.
When the vet relayed the treatment plan, my needle-phobic husband responded, “Well, I can’t do it. I just can’t.” Above the lump in my throat, and knowing fully well that I’d never administered any type of shot in my life, I forced out the words, “I can do it.”
So it was. I gave Chloe two shots of insulin a day, took her to the vet twice a week for glucose monitoring, and held her a little tighter as often as I could. As a result, Chloe lived three, wonderful years after her diagnosis.
“As a result, Chloe lived three, wonderful years after her diagnosis.”
The exact cause for canine diabetes is unknown, but it is believed that genetics, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and chronic pancreatitis may play a role.
Diabetes can be managed if it’s detected early. Your dog’s success depends on how much you know. With proper treatment, dogs can live happy, healthy lives.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Change in appetite
- Weight loss
- Increased water consumption
- Frequent, excessive urination
- Lethargy
- Recurrent infections (especially urinary tract infections)
- Cataracts
Complications that can occur:
- Recurrent infections—especially skin and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Liver disease
- Diabetic nephropathy—kidney problems
- Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
Remember, a diagnosis of canine diabetes is not a death sentence. You may feel overwhelmed at first, but if I can handle it, you can!
Has your pup suffered from canine diabetes? Share your story or treatment plan below: