Diabetes/Pancreatitis

Remedies for Symptoms of Diabetes & Pancreatitis in Dogs

Symptoms and Supplements for Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas that is common in dogs. Small-breed dogs tend to develop diabetes more often than larger breeds, but any breed can be affected by diabetes. Miniature Schnauzers, German Shepherds, Poodles, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Golden Retrievers have the highest rates of diabetes. Female middle-aged dogs seem to develop diabetes twice as often as males.

Diabetes Symptoms in Dogs

• Increased drinking and urination
• Weight loss despite a good or increased appetite
• Recurrent infections
• Enlarged liver
• Lethargy
• Poor coat condition
• Back legs may become weak; gait may become stilted or wobbly
• Thinning of the skin

How Will NHV Supplements Help Diabetes in Dogs

NHV’s main supplement to help support diabetes in dogs is Mellit, a natural formula that helps control blood sugar levels and helps strengthen and protect other organs from the serious imbalances that are triggered throughout the body due to diabetes. Other beneficial supplements include,

PetOmega, which is beneficial for decreasing insulin sensitivity and resistance
Milk Thistle to help support the organs and liver
Yucca for digestion, appetite, and pain management.

More About Diabetes in Dogs

Like humans, dogs can be affected by type I or type II diabetes. Type I diabetes (also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or diabetes mellitus) occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce the insulin the body needs to efficiently process carbohydrates.

The inadequate production of islet cells in the pancreas is the cause of diabetes mellitus. When a dog's body cannot metabolize carbohydrates, it causes a deficiency of insulin or a resistance to insulin. Without insulin, sugar accumulates in the blood and spills into the urine, which causes your dog to pass large volumes of urine and a need to drink lots of water. When this occurs, a dog’s brain becomes sugar-deprived and they become constantly hungry, yet they may lose weight due to improper use of nutrients from their diet. Diabetic dogs often have liver issues, cataracts, and chronic and recurrent infections. Diabetes in dogs without treatment are more likely to develop infections, such as bladder, kidney, and skin infections.

Animals that have Cushing's disease, are overweight, or have inflammation of the pancreas are predisposed to developing diabetes. In addition, some drugs can interfere with insulin, leading to diabetes.

Diabetes symptoms in dogs can develop gradually and the initial signs may not be noticeable at first. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to cataracts, blindness, enlarged liver, bladder or kidney infection, renal disease, and others.

Treatment and Monitoring of Diabetes in dogs

posed to developing diabetes. In addition, some drugs can interfere with insulin, leading to diabetes.

Pet Care Expert Tip

NHV supplements can be used alongside insulin. When using insulin, remember that there are many different products available for your dog, and that each pet may respond differently to the type of insulin. Regardless if your pet is on insulin only, a combination of insulin and NHV supplements like Mellit, or NHV Mellit only, frequent monitoring of your pet’s blood sugar levels is essential. Learn more from Dr. Hillary Cook, DVM, CVA and veterinary holistic partner at NHV on her blog: “Vet help for Diabetes in Pets”.

Additional Support

Diet is a critical component of treatment for dogs with diabetes. In fact, some insulin-dependent dogs have been able to stop taking insulin after changing to a low-carbohydrate diet. It is important that you never diagnose your dog yourself or stop the administration of insulin without first consulting your vet. Contact our pet experts for answers to your questions, and for help getting your pup on a path to wellness.