The work of a dog groomer is changing as advances in medical science influence our profession. If we want to be seen as true pet professionals, our knowledge of animal disorders is essential for us to progress as an industry. Here are the key facts relating to dog diabetes.
Diabetes – Key Facts
- Dogs like humans suffer from both types 1 and type 2 diabetes
- Symptoms for both are much the same
- Most common in dogs over 6 years
What causes it ?
The dogs body fails to respond to insulin or develops insulin resistance due to :
- Obesity
- Medical conditions such as Cushing’s
Symptoms we may notice as groomers
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Muscle wastage
- Weight loss
- Development of cataracts
What do we need to know?
- Diabetic dogs should have a relatively uneventful life, they should be fed the same diet at the same time each day and have the same amount of exercise and a controlled amount of medication, this keeps them healthy and happy.
This can potentially cause us problems why ?
- Being groomed is outside their routine and standing or dancing around a table for a couple of hours being bathed, groomed, trimmed involves more energy than they are used to.
- Increased energy means drop in sugar levels
What will we see ?
- Drowsiness
- Weakness
- Staggering
What do we do ?
- Administer by mouth a sweet substance such as; honey ,syrup, sugar or glucose
- Reactions to this are quite dramatic and the dog will be normal in a very short time
- Always inform the owner of the changes in the dogs health
- Ensure you fit the dogs grooming appointment around their routine
- Suggest the dog is not exercised on their grooming day to conserve energy
- Encourage the owner to bring in some honey /syrup for you to use should it be needed.
