Canine diabetes is on the rise. According to Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2016 State of Pet Health report, cases of diabetes in dogs have increased by nearly 80 percent since 2006. Unfortunately for dogs, diabetes is not always preventable.
No matter what you do, some dogs will get diabetes. ButYou may be able to more easily manage or reduce your puppy’s symptoms by following these six tipsMaintain regular inspections
Some diseases, including Cushing’s disease and pancreatitis, can increase a dog’s chances of developing diabetes. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for routine exams and blood tests. If you notice a change in your dog’s behavior, appetite, thirst or urination, call your veterinarian to make sure it’s not a sign of a bigger problem.
Spaying female dogs
Bitch dogs that are intact are more likely to develop diabetes. After dogs give birth or complete an estrus, their progesterone levels spike. Fluctuations in these hormones can increase a dog’s risk of developing the disease, he says. Spaying your dog will also reduce her risk of developing other diseases that may be associated with high progesterone levels, including uterine sepsis, a uterine infection sometimes accompanied by high blood sugar.Keeping your dog active
Exercise can play a role in the prevention and management of diabetes because it helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce weight gain. “Dogs need enough exercise to burn the calories they consume, just like people do.
It is recommended that you walk your dog at least once a day. How far you walk depends on the dog’s age, health, and the weather. A healthy dog should be able to take a long walk as long as it’s not too hot outside.
Owners are more easily fatigued than dogs. Think of wolves in the wild, they chase their prey to the ground.Buy quality dog food
When it comes to prey, you want to make sure your dog is eating a high-protein diet, Morgan says. This will help keep his blood sugar levels more stable than on a high-carb diet.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on dog food. Most mainstream brands offer quality nutrition.
As long as you don’t buy the cheapest grocery store brand, you’ll probably do just fine.Do not feed the dog too much
While current research has not revealed a link between obesity and diabetes in dogs, weight control is an important part of disease management, and your dog should become diabetic. Of course, obesity is associated with many other health problems, so feeding your dog the right amount is still very important.
Dogs should consume 20 to 30 calories per pound of body weight per day, depending on their size and activity level.
Give your dog fewer snacks and avoid giving them too much “human food. “If you can’t feel their ribs, it’s probably because they’re eating too much.Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables make a great snack or pre-dinner snack and are calorie-free. The natural sugars in fruits and vegetables don’t cause a spike in blood sugar,” she says. If most of the dog’s food is dry, sprinkle a little vegetable on top and cook it slowly, such as broccoli, kale, dandelion or collard greens.
These ingredients will help increase the fiber content of the food and help regulate fluctuations in blood sugar.
Always consult your veterinarian before adding any fruits or vegetables to your dog or making any major changes to your dog’s diet.