• Upon first diagnosis patients are started on a low dose of insulin given twice daily. The first day is spent in hospital for initial dose regulation. We do this mainly to ensure they aren’t getting too much insulin and developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• At the end of the day the patient is sent home on a dose of insulin to be given twice daily.
• Patients will then need to come back every week for 4 weeks. Each time, patients will need to be dropped off for the day (here by 8 a.m./ home between 5-6 p.m.). These weekly visits are required for initial insulin regulation. Please feed them normally the day they come in. Please also bring their insulin with them. DO NOT give their morning insulin injection, we will do it here.
• After the 4 week initial dose regulation, less frequent visits are required. We will test every 3 months, then every 6 months and eventually once yearly.
• For those interested, follow up testing can be done at home. That is, we can teach you how to check your dogs blood sugars at home.

Your dog will probably be switched to a diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. A specific diet for diabetic canines mainly consists of a diet that is based on the stage of your pet's diabetes, his age, his current physical condition, and a number of other factors. In general you should:

• Avoid snacking between meals
• Avoid large amounts of fatty dog treats
• Increase fiber intake
• Increase complex carbohydrates intake
• Avoid fatty dog food as a typical diet for diabetic canines is extremely low in fat

Insulin and Syringes