Dogs experience diabetes differently to humans and have either Insulin Deficient Diabetes (IDD) or Insulin Resistant Diabetes (IDR). There are many factors that can contribute to your dog’s likelihood of having diabetes. Some of these factors are out of our control as dog owners - such as breed type, age, and gender. There are many areas of our dogs’ lives that we can modify to best prevent the onset of canine diabetic conditions:
Weight and diet are very important when preventing the onset of and controlling cases of canine diabetes. Monitoring you dog’s weight on a regular basis and feeding high-quality, low-fat meals and treats will ensure you lower the risk factors for diabetic conditions developing in your pet. If your dog has medical conditions that can increase their risk of diabetes (such as pancreatic illnesses or Cushing’s disease), regular appointments with your regular veterinarian will make sure you are aware of any changes in your dog’s health.
There are many options available for owners to treat their dogs who may have developed a diabetic condition due to breed, age, or lifestyle. Your dog’s quality of life can be maintained easily through prescribed medications, dietary controls, and weight loss programs.
Canine Diabetes, whilst becoming more common in our four-legged friends, is an illness that can be controlled with cooperative efforts between owner and veterinarian. Your dog can continue to live a long, happy, and waggy life despite being diagnosed with diabetes.