HYPOGLYCEMIA
When a pet’s blood sugar drops significantly below normal levels it is called HYPOGLYCEMIA.
Often a reaction to stress, excitement, or over-activity may be the cause. Hypoglycemia is common in small puppies--especially the “toy” breeds-and in active hunting or field trial dogs. It may be INHERITED or simply a result of the body’s internal organs developing a little more slowly than normal. Hypoglycemia is also seen in diabetic animals who have received too much insulin.SIGNS include:
1. Loss of energy.
2. Becomes more quiet than normal.
3. Shivering.
4. Wobbly, cannot stand.
5. Semi-comatose or comatose (sleepy).
6. Subnormal body temperature.
7. “Fainting” spells in older dogs, particularly during exercise.
8. Seizures, coma
These signs can be seen from other diseases besides hypoglycemia. TREATMENT is replacement of the blood sugar by oral administration of sugary food or IV Injections of Glucose. Recovery is usually very rapid if hypoglycenmia is the cause of the problem.
HOME THERAPY when you think an attack is on the verge of happening:
2-3cc Karo Syrup, Honey, or Sugar Water/5 pounds body weight orally.
Keep the pet warm and quiet and limit exercise.
Have the pet examined by veterinarian.
PREVENTION PRECAUTIONS:
(a) Feed high quality puppy/kitten foods. Young pets need 3 to 5 meals daily.
(b) Monitor food intake to be sure your pet is consuming enough food to meet normal body requirements.
(c) Monitor pets with vomiting and/or diarrhea very closely.
(d) Bring dog food or treats along whenever your dog will be exercising strenuously, and feed frequent snacks or small meals. Be sure water is available as well!
