Avoiding Hypoglycemia
The most common side effect during insulin treatment is low blood glucose or hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose is not uncommon in diabetics on insulin. Diabetic dogs may have few or no signs of low blood glucose. Any change in your dog’s behavior no matter how subtle could be important. Low blood glucose can be serious or even life threatening and needs prompt attention.
Consistent management helps to avoid low blood glucose
- Establish and follow a daily routine of insulin, meals, and regular exercise and/or play
- Keep meals consistent in content, quality, quantity and timing
- Your veterinarian will advise you about suitable food, treats, and weight management plan for your diabetic dog
- Keep records of your dog’s progress and note any major changes to your daily routine
- Contact your veterinarian if you are worried or see major changes in your dog
- Schedule regular veterinary follow-up visits
“I keep hearing, ‘consistency is key’ and I’m starting to understand how it helps manage my diabetes.”
SPIKE
Avoid low blood glucose by knowing some of the causes
Change in insulin requirements
Too much insulin (for your dog’s needs)
Irregular exercise
Increased activity
Missing or delaying a meal
Change in diet or amount fed or eaten
Infection
Decreased appetite or vomiting
Adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland diseases
Pancreatitis
Severe liver, kidney or heart disease
Interaction with other medications