A couple of weeks ago, I'm quietly strolling the streets of California on a relaxed weekend morning. A Schnauzer approaches (with his human) and we are quickly acquainted. Not too far into the chat, I learn that this particular Schnauzer has just been diagnosed with diabetes.

The mother relates that this diagnosis may shorten his lifespan by a couple of years. She expresses her confusion: she thought she'd been feeding him 'well', so why has he developed diabetes? She tells me that her schedule is now restricted by the Schnauzer's insulin timetable. She expresses concern that he not be in pain and hope that his diabetes won't lead to blindness and circulation problems which might disable him.

This scene has become all too common. According to petdiabetes.org, approximately 1 in 400 dogs will develop diabetes mellitus. This number has risen significantly in recent years. Forty years ago, it was estimated that only 1 in 2000 dogs had diabetes. Scientists have multiple theories about this rise in incidence, frequently concluding that dogs, like their people, are eating more refined carbohydrates and exercising less. Many of the dry kibble-type foods have 'filler' substances which consist of refined carbohydrates. Other theories include the increase in nitrites present in processed meats (like dog food) which has shown a 46 % increase in the likelihood of diabetes in humans. Whatever the origin, the result is an increase in dogs that are ill.

Diabetes is a disease of the endocrine system, caused by a deficiency of insulin - the hormone that regulates how blood sugar is absorbed and used by the body. Type I diabetes (Juvenile) refers to a pancreas that does not produce insulin at all. The pancreas in Type II diabetics produces some, but not enough insulin, thus needing outside supplementation in the form of oral hypoglycemic (blood-sugar lowering) medication or insulin. Almost all dogs have Type II diabetes.

Female dogs appear to be the most susceptible. Dogs over 7 years old are at greatest risk. However, there is a strong correlation between obesity and diabetes in dogs as well. Some breeds are known to be at higher risk including: Puli, Miniature Pinscher, Cairn Terrier, and Keeshond. However, Poodles, Dachshunds and Beagles are also over-represented. It is the most common hormonal disorder affecting dogs.

If you're wondering how your canine companion might be faring, the signs of diabetes in pets are similar to those in humans. Diabetes symptoms include: weight loss, increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, liver malfunction, cataracts, and increased risk of chronic infections. In its later stages, it can lead to neuropathy, blindness, and death.

For dogs and owners who are now confronted with diabetes, there are many new issues at hand. First, there's the food. Most vets recommend a specific brand of 'diabetic' food, often quite different from the dog's customary food. While often costly for the owner, it can take a toll on the dogs gastro-intestinal system as well as they adjust to the new food. Because this food is often canned, it's helpful to replace enzymes missing in canned food, both to make the food more digestible and also to ease the transition.

Next, there's the medicine. Unlike the human drugs, there are few oral hypoglycemic medications for dogs. Thus, most are given insulin. Ironically, most dogs tolerate the very fine insulin needles quite well, making it somewhat easier to arrange for their cooperation than 'pill' based medication. There are several types of insulin of short and long-acting varieties as determined by your veterinarian.

How does one determine how much insulin to give, you ask? Depending on your dog, the severity of the disease, and the veterinarian, you may give your dog a 'set' dose every day, or you may apply a sliding scale after testing your dogs urine with urine 'strips', or by collecting blood and monitoring the sugar level on a glucometer.

In addition to the medical regime, diabetic dogs respond well to 'lifestyle' therapies, especially exercise. As with many things diabetic, consistency is the crucial piece. Consistent, moderate DAILY exercise is very helpful at maintaining insulin levels. Similarly, very careful monitoring of the dog's intake also helps maintain blood glucose levels. In addition, many people have had successful outcomes with various herbs and nutritional supplements. Bilberry, chromium, and astralagus have been shown to be supportive (ask your Veterinarian before giving your dog any supplement, herb or food.)

Treatment of diabetes requires commitment from the owner. While manageable, it is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not managed well. Low blood sugar crises can occur if a dog receives an insulin overdose or does not eat food accompanying an insulin injection. Symptoms of such a hypoglycemic attack include weakness, lethargy, difficulty in arousing from sleep, and sometimes seizures. If this occurs, apply a very sweet liquid such as honey, corn syrup, or fruit juice to the gums immediately, and then visit your veterinarian promptly for additional intravenous glucose or other care.

While not a life-sentence, diabetes is a significantly uncomfortable, and mostly preventable disease. More research is needed to fully understand it's causes, but feeding dogs real food (generally including high quality, free-range, antibiotic/hormone/nitrite free meat and organic vegetables), minimizing their carbohydrate intake and maintaining a consistent exercise program, not to mention high doses of love and affection will go a long way toward minimizing the chance of your dog getting a diagnosis of 'doggie diabetes.'

Katrina Hugenot is a Registered Nurse and dog lover with a very warm spot for Airedales and the late great Ansel. She publishes essays and articles about a wide range of topics on her EcoNurse.com website.

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