HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG HEALTHY, PREVENT COMMON PROBLEMS

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that affects the amount of glucose, or sugar, in your dog's blood. Diabetes occurs when your dog's body makes too little insulin, stops producing it completely, or has an abnormal response to insulin. When your dog eats, carbohydrates are converted into several types of simple sugars, including glucose. Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the blood, where it travels to cells throughout the body. Insulin is required for the transfer of glucose from the blood into the cells so it can be used for energy. If there's too little insulin available, glucose can't enter cells, and instead builds up to a high concentration in the bloodstream. This is known as hyperglycemia.

As a result, there is not enough energy for the cells to function normally and they become "starved." Over time, weight loss ensues despite a ravenous appetite. The build-up of glucose in the blood spills over into the urine and draws large volumes of water, resulting in increased thirst and urination. Canine diabetes is more common in middle-age and older dogs, but it is also seen in young dogs. While believed to be underdiagnosed, diabetes mellitus affects an estimated one in 1 in 300 dogs. The primary cause of canine diabetes is largely unknown, but experts suggest that genetics may play a role. Dogs with diabetes can develop complications subsequent to becoming diabetic. Careful control of blood glucose concentrations may help minimize these complications.

Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye following prolonged high blood glucose concentrations, leading to blindness. Other complications include frequent infections and ketoacidosis (which cause decreased appetite, vomiting and lethargy). These complications can be severe and impair how insulin works. Contact your veterinarian any time your dog experiences any change in signs. Diabetes typically occurs when dogs are between 4 to 14 years of age. Unspayed female dogs are twice as likely as male dogs to suffer from diabetes. Your veterinarian will recommend the best type of diet for your diabetic dog. Usually this will include some good-quality protein, as well as fiber and complex carbohydrates that will help to slow absorption of glucose. Your vet may also recommend a diet with relatively low-fat content.

To help avoid sudden spikes or drops in glucose levels, it is especially important that diabetic dogs maintain a moderate but consistent exercise routine. Most diabetic dogs will require daily shots of insulin under the skin, something that the owner will have to learn to do. Although it's understandable to be apprehensive about doing this, it's not as hard as it might sound. It can become a quick and easy daily routine that isn't traumatic at all for either dog or owner. Although some cases may be more challenging, canine diabetes can be usually managed successfully without complications. From giving injections to monitoring glucose levels daily, you will play the primary role in your dog's care, and your commitment to keeping up with his daily shots and monitoring is extremely important.

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