Hypoglycemia is a sudden fall in the concentration of glucose in the blood below normal levels. The body uses glucose as its primary energy source. The brain, for example, is completely dependent upon glucose to function. The liver is responsible for manufacturing glucose and for storing it in a usable form, for release into the blood stream as needed. Muscle tissues store some of the important materials used in this process. A common cause of hypoglycemia in dogs is a functional islet cell tumor of the pancreas (insulinoma). While a wide variety of breeds may be affected, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherds, Irish Setters, Standard Poodles, Collies, Boxers, Fox Terriers, and most Toy breeds may have a higher incidence than other breeds.

Symptoms:

Since hypoglycemia affects the brain, the nervous system will be affected the most

Veterinary treatment is essential asap, or the dog can go into a coma.

Hypoglycemia Can Be Caused by Xylitol

Puppies and dogs can develop severe hypoglycemia after consuming sugar-free gum sweetened with the sugar-alcohol xylitol. In humans, xylitol has little to no effect on plasma insulin or glucose levels, but in dogs xylitol is a strong promoter of insulin release and can cause severe hypoglycemia with collapse and seizures. With the increased appearance of xylitol-sweetened products xylitol toxicosis in dogs may become more common.

Blood Glucose Levels Are Important In Diabetic Dogs - General First Aid for Hypoglycemic Dogs

Always keep some syrup or honey on hand. If your pet shows signs of this condition, immediately give them a spoonful of syrup. You can squirt it into their mouth with a syringe (with no needle!!). If they are unconscious, and can't swallow, rub the syrup on their gums and under her tongue.

Low blood sugar levels will cause a drop in body temperature. You may need to wrap her in a blanket to keep her warm while you're taking her to the vet.

Regulating Your Diabetic Dog's Blood Glucose Levels Is Essential

If the level of glucose in your pet's blood is always going up and down, this will lead to problems. Feed your pet two or three smaller meals spaced evenly throughout the day. Always wait until after a meal, and check her blood sugar before giving her an insulin injection. If you give the injection before you feed her, and then she doesn't eat, the insulin will cause dangerous drops in the amount of glucose in her blood. Think ahead to prevent this from happening.

Avoid vigorous exercise, which can cause the amount of glucose in her system to drop too quickly. It's better to stick to a short, easy, exercise session every day at the same time to prevent problems. Also carry some syrup with you in a syringe so you can give her some if she needs it.

Natural Remedies For Dogs Are Helpful

Many herbs will help to regulate blood sugar naturally. Many pet owners have been able to reduce the amount of insulin their pet needs, or even eliminate it completely by using herbal pet remedies . These remedies are safe to use right along with the insulin prescribed by your vet. Always be sure to contact your vet before changing your pet's treatment plan .

Don't let canine diabetes cause complications for your pet. You may be able to manage it, and prevent hypoglycemia in dogs, by giving your pet a natural remedy for dogs. Why don't you learn more right now?