How to Treat Low Blood Sugar in Dogs

Treat your pup with low blood sugar

When your canine suffers from low blood sugar (or hypoglycemia), it's hard for both of you. It's important to understand how to treat low blood sugar in dogs. If it isn't treated, your dog could suffer in a serious way and may even die. However, by paying attention to your dog's eating habits and taking the advice of your veterinarian, your dog can lead a happy and healthy life.

Things You'll Need

• Karo syrup
• Glucose drugs
• Safe environment
• Dog food

Instructions

1. Make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as you recognize symptoms of low blood sugar. Those include shaking/shivering, no appetite, lethargy, seizures, loss of balance or dizziness, weakness, unexplained sense of fear and/or sudden hiding. Before taking any more steps, it's important that your dog be properly diagnosed by a trained professional.

2. Rub Karo syrup (or something similar) on your dog's gums if you suspect low blood sugar. This should be done before taking your pet to the animal hospital. The syrup will not harm your dog if it doesn't have hypoglycemia, but if it does, you could save its life.

3. Administer the drugs provided by your veterinarian as prescribed once your dog has been diagnosed. It's important to follow the prescription as your veterinarian has instructed. Most commonly, your dog will need an oral administration or injection of glucose to increase blood sugar concentration.

4. Observe your dog's behavior after the drugs have been administered. Keep tabs on its general activity level and the amount of food it eats. Also take into account your dog's personality.

5. Provide a safe and welcoming environment for your canine. This will help fight any unnecessary fear your pet may have. Stay by its side and show it plenty of affection.

6. Feed your pet on a regular basis. Following a schedule for feeding will help your pet's body adapt to the intervals between food. Note that young dogs should be fed three to four times every day, and older dogs should be fed two to three times per day.

Tips & Warnings

• In addition to these home care and prevention tips, it's absolutely necessary that your canine be treated by a professional.

References

• Pet Place: Hypoglycemia in Dogs
• Dog Health Guide: Canine Hypoglycemia