Coping with a diabetic dog.

Coping With a Diabetic Dog
By Julie Bjelland Lokhandwala.
published: in Dog Twist magazine: http://www.dogtwist.com/coping-diabetic-dog/

Just like in people, there are an increasing number of dogs found to have Diabetes today. Proper exercise and nutrition play an important role in preventing and also coping with this disease. Diabetes is not curable, but the good news is that it does not have to be a death sentence for your dog. Through proper treatment and care your dog could go on to live a normal, full life.
First of all you will want to make sure you completely understand your dogs particular health evaluation from your Veterinarian. Write down a list of questions for your Vet and get the answers you need. It will be important for you to follow your Vet's treatment plan in order to help your dog have the best life possible. If diabetes is not managed well then a lot of serious medical complications can arise.

Good nutrition and exercise is very important for all dogs, but especially if your dog has diabetes. Ask your Veterinarian what your dog's ideal weight should be and work with them to help your dog reach that goal. Try to keep your dog on a regular feeding schedule, offering small meals two to three times a day at the same time each day to help stabilize blood sugar levels. It will be very important for your dog to have a regular exercise schedule as well. Too little or too much exercise at any time can affect your dogs blood sugar levels so try to stay on a daily, moderate exercise schedule. Ask your Veterinarian how much exercise they would recommend for your particular dog and stay on schedule. It might take a little extra effort on your part but once you develop the proper schedule it will become routine and enjoyable for both you and your dog.

If your dog requires insulin shots, try to associate the shots with something positive so that your dog does not become fearful of the shot. You can distract your dog with a very yummy treat while giving the shot for example. Get the insulin ready to administer and have your dog's favorite treat ready in front of them; offer a treat, then give the shot, then offer another treat.

Even though your dog has diabetes it is important that you try to continue your normal behavioral expectations of your dog. Don't make the mistake of allowing negative behaviors in your dog because you feel sorry for them. A well-trained dog is happier because they get to spend more time with you and the family, so do not end your training goals because your dog has diabetes. As with all dogs, your dog will be happier to live in a home that has consistent expectations of them.

Your dogs medical needs could change over time so be sure to have regular check ups with your Vet to continue to cope successfully with your diabetic dog. There are a lot of other people going through the same thing you are so reaching out to others with diabetic dogs could be beneficial emotionally. Gather the support of family and friends when you need it too and enjoy the love your companion dog has to offer you.

--Julie Bjelland Lokhandwala is a Dog Trainer and freelance writer. Her insightful dog-training book is featured on her interactive Dog Training Web site: www.webdogtrainer.com, which allows dog owners to ask Julie questions about their dog through live chat consultations. Julie shares her home with her German Shepherd, Fax.