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Question

my shihzu has been diagnosed with diabetes. I've been giving insulin injections twice daily and monitoring his food. he is feeling MUCH better and looks better, in general. however, even after adjustments in dosages, he continues drinking large quantities of water and having many frequent urine accidents. it is becoming both frustrating and expensive for us to continue having his blood glucose levels checked so often with little to no help with the water intake/output. we are very relieved, however, that he is acting and looking better. suggestions? he is taking 11 units of vetsulin currently.

Submitted: 279 days and 12 hours ago.
Category: Dog
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Age: 12; Male; Breed: shih tsu

Already Tried:
twice daily injections of vetsulin--10 units
food intake monitoring
increase exercise

Accepted Answer

Thanks for writing in,

 

I know diabetes can be very frustrating for all involved!! Our main goal with diabetes in pets is to control the symptoms involved with diabetes, mainly the PU/PD (drinking alot, peeing alot), increased food consumption, and weight loss. IT sounds like some of your guys symptoms are under control but not the PU/PD. What I would suggest, and I know you don't want to do this, is to have a blood glucose curve done where your vet will feed, give the insulin, and watch his blood glucose through the day. 11 units in a little dog like yours sounds like alot to me and their is a physiological reflex called Samoygi, where if too much insulin is given then the body will reflexively increase the glucose in the body making it imposible to control a dog. I have had to rethink a few cases and basically start all over because this was happening. So that should really be done with your dog. Also, if he has any concurrent diseases going on such as hyperadrenocortism etc, this can also make controlling a diabetic impossible. So complete labwork may be in order for your guy. Also, monitor the amount of water your dog consumed in a 24 hour period. Do this for 2 or 3 days and take an average. This way we can see if your dog is truly drinking too much in one day. Many times owners feel their dog is drinking a ton when in fact it is a normal amount of water consumption. I hope this gives you an idea of some possibilites to possibly take with your dog. Best of luck!

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Expert: LSU-Vet
Pos. Feedback: 98.9 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 2/14/2009

Dog Veterinarian

Veterinarian, Dog/Cat Veterinarian

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