Category: General Pet Care

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, we field questions from dog owners every day about dog behavior, diet, and health. Sometimes, pet parents are surprised by our answers. 

For instance, did you know that your dog can smell your feelings? Or that a study at the University of San Diego California claims dogs can experience jealousy? 

Sometimes, our answers aren’t just surprising, but humbling. After all, once you learn that the average dog can understand approximately 150 words, you quickly realize that your dog understands you much better than you understand him. 

Over the years, we’ve found that one answer that consistently surprises new pet owners is our response to “do dogs get seasonal allergies?” The answer is: YES. While most pet parents have friends or family members with seasonal allergies, they may never have cared for a pet who suffers from allergies before.  

When your dog is uncomfortable, your goal is always to find out what’s causing it and do everything you can to eliminate it. You shouldn’t attempt to diagnose and treat allergies on your own, though. 

If you suspect your dog is experiencing seasonal allergies, you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They’ll conduct an examination and talk to you about your dog’s symptoms before suggesting tests to rule out other conditions that can share overlapping symptoms. 

What Are Allergies in Dogs? 

Like humans, dogs can develop an allergic response to different types of food or ingredients. Some dogs can develop seasonal allergies to substances in their environments, like dust, pollen, and grass, too. 

Dog seasonal allergies are just like the seasonal allergies humans experience. Though the substances that trigger an allergic response aren’t generally harmful to people or pets, some dogs’ immune systems respond to them as though they are.

Seasonal allergy symptoms in dogs tend to overlap with symptoms of other conditions, as well. This can make diagnosing your dog with allergies challenging. If your pet is displaying any new symptoms, you should schedule a visit with your vet before attempting any dog seasonal allergies home remedies. Since your dog can’t tell you what’s wrong, though, it can be helpful to learn its signs, symptoms, and common causes. 

What Dog Breeds are Most at Risk?

After asking “can dogs get seasonal allergies,” the second question most dog owners have is, “what dog breeds are most likely to have allergies?” 

Although any dog can develop seasonal and environmental allergies, some breeds are predisposed to them. Dozens of dog breeds share the (unfortunate) genetic disposition to allergies, including: 

• American Pit Bull Terriers
• Beagles
• Boxers
• Bulldogs
• Bull Terriers
• Cocker Spaniels
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Pugs

Regardless of whether your dog’s allergies are due to a genetic predisposition, you should talk with your vet about how their breed affects their allergy treatment and prevention. For example, pugs, bulldogs, and other breeds with prominent skin folds benefit from having their faces and necks wiped down daily. This daily cleaning routine helps to keep them clean, reduces the risks of skin infections, and can remove traces of any environmental triggers such as pollen or grass that they may have encountered during the day. 

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to any number of environmental substances. Some of the most common seasonal allergies that affect dogs are: 

• Grass
• Pollen
• Mold
• Fungi
• Fleas
• Dust

A dog’s allergy triggers will also be influenced by where he lives. The immune system can only develop an allergic response to a substance it has encountered before. The more frequently the allergen is encountered, the more opportunities there are for the immune system to mount an (over) reaction to it. Because of the way allergies develop, dogs can develop allergies at any age to any substance, even one they’ve encountered in the past without any problem. 

Though the symptoms of dog allergies can also be caused by other health issues, it’s useful to understand how your dog might respond to seasonal allergies. The majority of environmental allergies in dogs presents with skin and ears:

• Itchy, flaky, or red skin
• Hair loss
• Itching
• Ear infections
• Head shaking or ear scratching
• Smelly ears or ears that appear dirty

Other symptoms to look out for that might indicate your dog has seasonal allergies are: 

• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Paw licking

Every dog will respond differently, and they won’t all show their discomfort in the same way, so you should always never try to diagnose your dog without a visit to your vet. 

How to Treat Allergies in Dogs

Unfortunately, there is no cure for dog seasonal allergies, but you can treat your dog’s symptoms to reduce or eliminate their discomfort. Once your vet has diagnosed your dog with allergies and run tests to identify their allergy triggers, they’ll develop a treatment plan that may include a combination of prescription and over-the-counter medications along with environmental or behavioral changes. 

Seasonal Allergy Medicine for Dogs

Unlike humans, histamines don’t tend to play a big role in dog allergies which is why over-the-counter antihistamines such as Claritin and Benadryl almost never work. Human allergy medications may sometimes be recommended as last resort medication in order to hold your dog over until their vet appointment. However, the dosage for dogs is not the same as it is for humans, and not all dogs are good candidates for some formulations. You should never provide any human medications to your dog without consulting with your vet first. 

If your dog’s allergies are severe or they are suffering from secondary infections, as well, your vet may prescribe a course of Apoquel, Cytopoint, Prednisone, and sometimes Cyclosporine. 

Other Dog Seasonal Allergies Treatment

Frequent bathing with an oatmeal-based soap or other allergy-safe cleanser may help give your dog some relief and remove airborne allergens from his skin and coat. You can also make some changes to your dog’s environment to help them avoid known allergen triggers. This may include changing your walking routine (pollen levels are typically highest early in the morning and in the late afternoon), upgrading your home’s air filters, and regularly washing your dog’s bedding and other washable surfaces in hot water. 

Conclusion

While there’s no cure for allergies and you can’t prevent your dog from having them, you can help alleviate the discomfort caused by your dog’s seasonal allergy symptoms. The first step in getting dog seasonal allergies under control is paying a visit to your veterinarian. 

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, we provide compassionate and comprehensive pet care that incorporates behavioral health practices and traditional medicine. Our mission is to always provide excellent customer care to pets and their people, and ensure we educate and partner with owners so they can take an active role in their pet’s wellness. If you suspect seasonal allergies are behind your dog’s symptoms or have questions about dog seasonal allergy medication and treatment, contact us today to talk to a member of our team or schedule a visit. 

The bond between people and their pets is undeniable. When you adopt pets, they become a part of your family, and you want to do everything you can to keep them happy and healthy. 

You know diet plays a significant role in your health and wellbeing, and the same is true of your pet. If your dog or cat eats a diet lacking the necessary nutrients, the deficiency will reveal itself in noticeable ways. 

At Continental Animal Wellness Center, we know pet parents want to provide their furry family members with a safe and nutritionally appropriate diet. Still, it can often feel like a daunting task. In the United States, pet owners collectively spend more than $31 billion on pet food each year. The sheer variety of available options alongside conflicting messages about pet nutrition can make it challenging to know what diet is best for your pet’s health. So, we have assembled this guide to help pet parents like you cut through the confusion and make informed decisions about your pet’s diet plan. 

Tip 1: Feed your pet a balanced diet that meets AAFCO standards

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) establishes guidelines for nutritional requirements, standard ingredient definitions, feeding trials, laboratory nutritional analysis, and product labels for pet foods. Pet foods that meet or exceed AAFCO nutritional adequacy standards will include a statement on its packaging stating whether the food contains essential nutrients, how this was determined, and for which life stage. 

When you’re shopping for pet food, you should look for the AAFCO statement on the label to ensure the product is complete and balanced for your pet and their life stage. If your pet has additional dietary needs determined by their breed, lifestyle, or health concerns, you should discuss these with your veterinarian before making any changes to their diet. 

Tip 2: Avoid raw food diets

Though raw food diets for cats and dogs have gained popularity in recent years, the CDC, FDA, and many veterinarians caution against it. The risks of feeding your pet a raw diet are well documented, and there is no evidence a raw diet for pets has benefits to outweigh these risks. Raw pet food, even those sold commercially, has been found to contain germs like listeria and salmonella, which can cause you, your pets, and your family to get sick. Raw diets are also unlikely to provide your pet with the complete and balanced nutrition they need, which can cause other health problems both now and in the future. If you have further questions regarding raw food diets, please consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. 

Tip 3: If you plan on feeding your pet home-cooked meals, consult with a veterinary nutritionist first  

Commercial pet foods are designed and tested to ensure your pet gets the right amount of nutrients for their developmental needs. Many pet owners who wish to cook their own pet food underestimate how challenging it can be to achieve the right balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that their pet needs to stay healthy. 

Certain pets should never be fed home-cooked diets, including cats and most dogs under 12 months old, pregnant or nursing pets, overweight pets, and any pet with ongoing or unaddressed allergies or health concerns.  If you plan to provide a home-cooked diet for any other pet, it is vital that you do so in consultation with a veterinary nutritionist who can evaluate your recipes and recommend changes or supplements. 

Tip 4: Unless your veterinarian feels it is medically necessary, avoiding feeding dogs a grain-free diet

Though grain-free diets for dogs have frequently popped up on store shelves, you should avoid feeding your dog a grain-free diet except under the direction and care of your vet. An FDA investigation into 515 dogs diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) found 90% of them were fed a grain-free diet. Some breeds are genetically predisposed to DCM, but veterinary cardiologists have noted an increase in DCM diagnoses in breeds without a genetic predisposition. If your veterinarian feels a grain-free diet is appropriate for your dog based on other health factors, they should monitor them closely for signs of DCM. 

Tip 5: Pick a protein and stick with it 

We humans may believe variety is the spice of life, but that is not the case for our pets. If you change your pet’s food frequently, you could inadvertently risk their health. Frequent food changes can upset their GI tract and lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Anytime you introduce a new ingredient to your pet, you should do so slowly by incorporating it into their typical diet and closely observing for any health or behavioral changes. Furthermore, if your pet is eating without showing any signs of allergies or intolerance, there really is not any reason to introduce new foods. Many pet parents wrongly believe they can reduce allergies in their pets by exposing them to a variety of proteins. Unfortunately, the opposite is true–the more proteins your pet is exposed to, the more likely they are to develop an allergy. If you plan to transition your pet from one protein to another, talk to your veterinarian first to understand how to do so safely.

Tip 6: Establish a twice-daily feeding schedule

Failing to establish a healthy meal routine is one of the most common mistakes pet owners make. If food is always available, pets who graze throughout the day tend to overeat, which could lead to obesity. Pets who are fed only once per day may develop bilious vomiting syndrome, which occurs when stomach inactivity aggravates the bile reflex, causing bile to enter the stomach. Once bile enters the stomach, your pet may vomit or, if they don’t, they may develop gastric reflux.  

A twice-per-day feeding schedule is ideal in most situations, though some pets may benefit from smaller portions spread across more feedings. If you are unsure what schedule is best for your pet, talk to your vet. 

Tip 7: Do not feed your pets table scraps 

It can be hard to resist those pleading puppy dog eyes, but when your pet is begging for a taste of your family’s dinner, the best thing you can do for them is refuse. When you feed your pet table scraps or other human food, they can easily exceed their daily intake needs, leading to weight gain. In addition, many human foods can cause stomach upset or allergic reactions, and some may even be toxic. If you are snacking on a healthy treat, such as green beans or carrots, it is okay to share a few bite-sized pieces with your dog. For all other human foods, resist the urge to give in to your pet’s pleading. 

Tip 8: Don’t give your dog hard bones 

Few things seem more natural than a dog with a bone. What many dog parents don’t know, however, is that hard bones can cause serious injury. The FDA cautions pet owners against giving bones to dogs, citing instances of injuries to dog’s teeth, tongues, and mouths. Bones can also splinter, causing pieces to get stuck in a dog’s digestive tract and requiring surgery to remove. Though you will find no shortage of bones, hooves, and other hard treats for dogs lining the aisles of your pet store, you should follow the fingernail test before giving your dog a bone–if it’s too hard to indent with your fingernail, it’s too hard for your dog to chew.

Tip 9: Annual dental cleaning beginning around 3 years of age

Most pet parents know their dogs and cats need to visit the vet each year for an annual check-up, but some are surprised to learn they should bring them in for annual dental cleaning, as well. Though your vet will talk to you about when your pet should have its first dental cleaning, most pets should begin having annual dental cleanings by the time they turn 3 years old. Regular at-home cleanings along with annual dental cleanings keep plaque, tartar, and bacteria at bay. This, in turn, protects your pet from tooth loss, gum disease, and even heart and kidney problems that can develop as they age. 

Conclusion

We know you want to keep your pet healthy and happy, and we are here to provide the expert care and advice you need along the way. At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, we focus on the health and overall well-being of every pet who visits us. Our practice combines behavioral health with traditional medicine at our state-of-the-art animal wellness facility, where we provide your pet with compassionate and comprehensive care. Whether you have questions about your pet’s diet or need to schedule your annual wellness exam, our caring team is here and happy to help – contact us today. 

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, we know that your pets are an important part of your family.

When you adopt a pet, you are not only inviting a new family member into your heart and home but accepting the responsibility to provide for their health and wellbeing. We all know that when your dog or cat starts showing signs of discomfort, your top priority is to find the source and eliminate it. While many pet parents are familiar with allergies, some are surprised to learn that dogs and cats can suffer from allergies, as well.

Like humans, dogs and cats can develop an allergic response to substances in their environment, such as dust, fleas, pollen, and mold. But did you know that both dogs and cats can also develop food allergies?

Food allergy symptoms often overlap with symptoms of other conditions. So, if your pet is displaying new symptoms that you believe could be triggered by something they are eating, your first call should always be to your veterinarian. However, understanding the signs, causes, and treatment of food allergies can help you gather valuable information to share with your vet so she can make an informed diagnosis and create a treatment plan for your furry family members.

Allergy Symptoms in Cats and Dogs

Though some cats and dogs experience respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, and coughing in response to allergens, many symptoms of allergies in dogs and cats are seen on the skin. If your pet shows any of these symptoms or behaviors, she may be suffering from a food allergy:

• Itching and skin inflammation that presents year-round
• Over-grooming, wounds, hot spots, or hair loss
• Recurrent infections of the skin or ears (or both)
• Frequent licking of the paws, flanks, or groin
• Skin rashes or hives

Some animals with food allergies will also experience gastrointestinal distress, such as flatulence, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, or any other new behaviors, you should schedule a consultation with your veterinarian.

Caring for a Dog with Food Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies at any time, even if they’ve never had an allergic reaction before. The longer your pet is exposed to an allergen, the more intense their allergic responses can be. So, it is crucial to identify and eliminate your dog’s allergens as soon as you notice signs of discomfort. While allergies can never be cured, you can eliminate the symptoms by removing the allergen from their diet.

Your vet will want to conduct a complete examination to rule out other conditions. They may also order skin and blood tests, though there is not one definitive food allergy test. If your vet suspects a food allergy, they will likely ask you to conduct a food trial that typically lasts 6-8 weeks, though more time may be needed depending on your dog’s diet and symptoms.

• How common are food allergies in dogs?

Among dogs with allergies, approximately 10% are food-related. When your dog develops a food allergy, its immune system “overreacts” and produces antibodies in response to the offending ingredient.

• What are the common signs of a food allergy in dogs?

Dogs with food allergies may experience itchy skin, rashes, chronic ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. Often, pet owners notice their dog constantly licks or scratches one part of their body, such as the paws or groin. Some dogs may develop skin infections in their neck or ears that do not respond well to treatment or return as soon as the treatment is stopped. If your dog frequently rubs their neck, head, or ears against carpet or furniture, or you notice skin irritation or hot spots, these may be signs of a food allergy.

Your dog may also display gastrointestinal symptoms after eating an allergen. Repeated vomiting, belching, excessive gas, unusually frequent bowel movements, and diarrhea may all be food allergy symptoms.

• What could trigger a food allergy in my dog?

Though some breeds are pre-disposed to allergies, food allergies can develop at any age in every breed. Dogs can develop food allergies, even if they have been on the same diet for a long period of time. Any food can cause an allergic reaction in dogs, but some of the most common dog allergies are triggered by chicken, beef, salmon, dairy products, eggs, lamb, and soy. 

The best pet food for dogs with skin allergies and other allergic reactions will depend on your dog’s allergy triggers and other factors that influence their nutritional needs. Your vet will work with you to develop a diet that is appropriate for your dog.

Caring for a Cat with Food Allergies

If you suspect your cat has food allergies, you may be tempted to scour the pet store for allergy-free pet food brands. However, you should always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your cat’s diet.

Your vet will first want to examine your cat to rule out other conditions. If no other cause of your cat’s symptoms is found, a trial diet will help identify the allergens that trigger your cat’s response. Your vet will then work with you to develop a diet plan that provides complete nutrition for your cat while avoiding their allergy triggers.

• How common are food allergies in cats?

Among cats with allergies, food allergies are the third most common type of allergy. Just as in dogs (and humans), cats with food allergies have an immune system overreaction in response to an allergen, which triggers the development of antibodies.

• What are the common signs of a food allergy in cats?

Cats experiencing allergies in response to food may display a range of symptoms, varying from one cat to the next. 

Excessive grooming can be a sign that your cat is experiencing skin itchiness or inflammation. You may also notice reddened skin or hair loss on a cat with food allergies. Chronic ear and anal gland infections can also be a sign of food allergies in cats, and some cats may exhibit symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

• What could trigger a food allergy in my cat?

Many cats with food allergies develop them between the ages of two and six, but cats of any age are susceptible. Cats and dogs can only form an allergy when they have been previously exposed to the allergen, and their immune response can become more severe with repeated and sustained exposure. Though any ingredient may cause an allergic reaction, some common culprits behind cat food allergies are beef, milk, lamb, wheat, corn, egg, chicken, tuna, and salmon.

Compassionate Veterinary Care for Your Pets

If you suspect your pet’s food is causing them discomfort, it can be tempting to head straight to the pet store to stock up on food for pets with allergies. However, if your dog or cat has a pet food allergy, switching their diet can make it more difficult for your vet to diagnose your pet and pinpoint the offending ingredients.

Many diseases and conditions can mimic the symptoms of pet food allergies, so it is essential to contact your veterinarian before making any diet changes. In most instances, your vet will want to see your pet in the office so they can thoroughly investigate your pet’s symptoms and check for bacterial infections, parasites, fungal infections, and other conditions with overlapping symptoms.

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, we provide compassionate, wellness-oriented care for every pet who visits our practice. Our holistic and comprehensive approach to veterinary care incorporates wellness planning to enhance your pet’s quality of life. If your dog or cat is exhibiting food allergy symptoms, our veterinary technicians and board-certified veterinarians will examine your pet and perform tests to rule out other conditions. If your pet’s symptoms indicate food allergies are behind them, we will work with you to identify the foods that trigger your pet’s symptoms and develop an allergy-free pet food diet plan to alleviate the symptoms and return your pet to a high quality of life.

Conclusion

There is no cure for food allergies. However, with ongoing dietary control and support, the prognosis for dogs and cats with food allergies is typically quite good.

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, AZ, we incorporate traditional medicine and behavioral health practices to provide compassionate, comprehensive care that promotes the health and wellbeing of all our patients. We know how concerning it can be when your family pet is not feeling its best, so we make it our mission to provide excellent customer service and straightforward, consistent communication with our patients’ owners so you understand your pet’s needs and can act as an informed partner in developing their care plan. If you have questions about your pet’s symptoms or suspect food allergies are behind them, contact us today to talk to a member of our staff and schedule an appointment. 

While you’re likely to know someone with diabetes, if you’re like some pet owners, you may be surprised to learn that diabetes can be present in pets, as well. Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop diabetes mellitus in one of two forms:

Type I Diabetes: This type of diabetes, also known as insulin-deficient diabetes, is present when a pet cannot produce or does not produce enough insulin.

Type II Diabetes: Type II Diabetes, or insulin-resistant diabetes, in dogs occurs when a dog’s body makes insulin, but either doesn’t produce enough of it or has an insensitivity or resistance to insulin.

At Continental Animal Wellness Center in Flagstaff, AZ, we know you want your dog to lead a happy and healthy life. As the only animal wellness center in the area, the health and wellbeing of every animal we treat is our focus. We’ve put together this guide to provide you with more information about the signs and symptoms of diabetes in dogs, as well as the types of treatments available.

Are you concerned that your dog is exhibiting symptoms of diabetes? Please contact your veterinarian to schedule a visit and discuss your concerns. While you may find the content in this article helpful, it is not a replacement for veterinary care and treatment. 

What is Diabetes in Dogs?

Nearly all dogs with diabetes present with Type I Diabetes. Though rare, dogs can develop Type II diabetes. Though the type identifies the cause and determines how to treat diabetes in dogs, the effects on your dog’s body are the same.

When a dog suffers from diabetes, excess sugar builds up in their blood where the cells that need it cannot access it. Starved of the fuel they need for specific organ cells and muscle cells to function, a dog’s body will begin to break down fats and protein in the body, while high glucose levels in the bloodstream cause damage throughout the body to nerves, blood vessels, and organs.

Upon learning that their dog has diabetes, many owners are interested to know what causes diabetes in dogs and wonder if it can be cured. While there is no cure for diabetes in dogs or any other animal, this chronic condition can be managed successfully. Though it isn’t always possible to pinpoint the cause when a dog develops diabetes, some common factors are present more frequently in dogs with diabetes:

Genetic predisposition: Dogs with diabetes may have affected relatives, just as humans do.

Breed: Certain breeds seem to be predisposed to developing diabetes, including (but not limited to):

• Beagles
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Keeshonds
• Pulis
• Miniature Pinschers
• Samoyeds
• Cairn Terriers
• Dachshunds
• Poodles

Medical conditions: Dogs diagnosed with certain medical conditions may be at a higher risk of developing diabetes. The conditions most commonly associated with canine diabetes are:

• Cushing’s disease
• Obesity
• Pancreatitis

Sex: Female dogs may develop temporary insulin resistance while pregnant or in heat. 

Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs?

What are the signs of diabetes in dogs? All dogs are different, so their symptoms will vary. Early on in their dog’s disease, owners may notice some of these signs, which can be early symptoms of diabetes:

• Increased or excessive thirst
• Increased urination
• Increased appetite
• weight loss or weight gain

As a dog’s disease advances, they may experience more pronounced symptoms, including:

• Decreased or lack of appetite
• Decreased or lack of energy
• Depressed demeanor or other changes in attitude
• Vomiting

If diabetes isn’t diagnosed and treated until late in the disease’s development, dogs may experience significant health threats, including:

• Seizures
• Urinary tract infections
• Cataracts
• Kidney failure
• Ketoacidosis

Diabetes Diagnosis in Dogs

Diabetes can develop at any age, but it presents mainly in dogs aged five or older. Though some breeds appear predisposed to diabetes, mixed-breed dogs develop diabetes at or close to the same rate as pure-breed dogs. If you’re concerned that your companion is showing symptoms of diabetes or is exhibiting other behavioral changes, you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian for a thorough examination. The sooner a dog is diagnosed and begins treatment, the better.

You should expect your vet to take a thorough medical history at your appointment. Since your dog can’t speak up for himself, your observations are the second-best thing, so be sure to provide as many details as you can. Since dogs may mask signs of pain or distress, any new or different behavior may be relevant and help your vet understand the complete picture.

If your vet suspects diabetes, she will discuss your dog’s symptoms with you and order a series of standard tests for diabetes in dogs. Typically, testing for diabetes in dogs includes running a urinalysis, complete blood count, and chemistry. These may reveal a high concentration of glucose in your dog’s blood and urine, electrolyte imbalances, or high liver enzyme levels may also be present. Your veterinarian may also suggest abdominal x-rays or ultrasounds if they suspect kidney stones or other abnormalities. 

Treatment of Diabetes in Dogs

Treatment for dogs with diabetes varies depending on the type of diabetes and any other health conditions or concerns present in your dog. A treatment plan for canine diabetes will include a combination of changes in diet and exercise alongside medications.

Medication: Just as humans with diabetes require daily shots of insulin, your dog may also need daily insulin shots. Though many owners experience some initial apprehension upon hearing this, most find that it’s not as difficult or painful for their dogs (or themselves) as they had feared. Your vet will help you learn how to inject your dog correctly, so it becomes a fast and straightforward part of your daily routine.

Exercise: Diabetic dogs require moderate but consistent exercise routines to avoid peaks and valleys in their glucose levels, so your vet will discuss your current exercise regimen and any changes necessary with you.

Diet: Diabetic dogs need to eat a diet of high-quality protein, typically with low-fat content and a balance of fiber and complex carbohydrates that help moderate glucose absorption. Your vet will discuss the type of food that’s best for your dog and may prescribe a prescription diet.

Monitoring: Your vet will discuss any signs or symptoms you should be on the lookout for and develop a home monitoring plan to test your dog’s glucose levels at home, and she may also instruct you to keep a ketones-testing kit on hand for at-home urine testing. 

Conclusion

When you adopt a dog into your family, you open yourself up to a whole new world of tail-wagging good times and plenty of tenderness too. Our dogs bring so much joy and affection into our lives, so it’s only natural that we can be quick to worry when we notice changes in their behavior. Sometimes, the new behavior is nothing to fret about. Other times, though, minor changes can be symptoms of a more significant underlying problem. When you notice a change in your pet’s behavior or activities, your first call should always be to your veterinarian.

While you may worry when your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, there’s no need to panic. With early detection and a supportive care team, most diabetic dogs go on to live happy, normal lives with their favorite humans.

Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or symptoms? The caring and experienced team at Continental Animal Wellness Center is here to help. At Continental Animal Wellness Center, we focus on the health and wellbeing of all our pet patients, incorporating traditional medicine and behavioral health into our compassionate and comprehensive care plans. Contact us today to schedule a visit for your dog or puppy.