Initial Consultation after the Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus

Give the dog owner a thorough explanation about:

• diabetes mellitus
• insulin therapy
• injection technique - see the pet owner site for diagrams and videos about injecting insulin.
• stabilisation (usually takes around 1-2 months and may even take up to 6 months)
• lifestyle changes (routine, diet and exercise)
• Weigh the dog
• Perform a thorough clinical examination to ensure that there are no other underlying diseases or complications.
• Calculate the initial Caninsulin dose. Read more about Calculation of initial insulin dosage.
• Discuss with the owner a daily routine, with regard to insulin injections and meal type and times that suits both them and their dog.

More information for pet owners

See www.pet-diabetes.com, a website for owners of diabetic pets.

For a list of useful websites see Links.