How to Prevent Canine Diabetes

A health epidemic has spilled over to our pets. There are almost as many out of shape canines as there are out of shape people. Canine diabetes has various causes. It can come from malnutrition and severe abuse. There is a direct correlation, in both pets and humans, between having diabetes and being overweight. Dogs get overweight because of two very real factors--out-of-balance diets and too little exercise. Dogs with diabetes have shorter life expectancies and get infections easily. Nutritional balance is key to helping keep your dog healthy and preventing canine diabetes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• High quality dog food
• Fresh cut up veggies
• Leash
• Good walking shoes

1. First, immediately lower your canine’s carbohydrate intake. Carbs turn to sugar in both human and canine bodies. Too much sugar raises blood sugar and enough of that causes insulin production. Too much insulin creates real problems like diabetes. Dogs do much better on a diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates (the “good” carbs).

2. Cut back or eliminate table scraps. That’s generally just another carb-fest your canine can’t tolerate.

3. Feed your dog a quality balanced diet (see How to Give your Dog a Balanced Diet) with veggies and lean meat. Avoid most commercially made dog foods--they’re often high in sugar and preservatives, another no-no for your canine friend.
   
   Make sure to not over-feed him/her. Too much of a good thing is part of the problem.

4. Eliminate the sweets. Doggie treats are okay, but give quality treats and skip the sugary stuff. Remember this saying: “Trim is in!”

5. Get outdoors regularly. Take your dog for daily regular walks. Slowly build both your time and distance. Exercise is essential for good health, for canines and humans.

6. Talk with your vet if your dog seems “off.” If he suddenly loses weight, has unusual thirstiness, or seems tired or weak, pay attention.

7. Have your canine friend get an annual check-up. Being proactive goes a long way to preventing illness like diabetes.

8. Be consistent. Your canine pals rely on you. You want to have them around for a long time, so give your dog a healthy and active lifestyle. You’ll both be glad you did!

Tips & Warnings

• When trying anything new, be it food, medicine or a natural remedy, monitor your dog for signs of distress. If it isn’t working or new symptoms appear, contact your vet right away.
• Create and keep as stress-free an environment as possible for your pet. Canines react just as negatively to stress and shock as we do.