Understanding Canine Diabetes in Beagles

Understanding Canine Diabetes in Beagles

Diabetes is a common condition in breeds like Beagles. It is important for every dog ​​owner to know the facts about this disease.

– Diabetes is an endocrine disease. It has two types; Diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. This disease occurs when the body produces too little insulin, a type of hormone that is essential for sugar metabolism.

– Diabetes mellitus is the most common of the two types. This disease, also called “sugar diabetes,” occurs when the body produces less insulin. Diabetes mellitus is further divided into two; Type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces too little insulin. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, occurs when the dog does not respond adequately to insulin.

– Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which the excretion of dilute urine occurs in large quantities and cannot be reduced even if fluid intake is reduced. This happens due to the kidney's inability to concentrate urine. This type of diabetes is caused by a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), known as vaporessin.

– The most common symptoms of diabetes are excessive drinking and urination. The dog may also experience weight loss, although the appetite increases. In addition, dogs with diabetes may also experience poor skin and coat, liver disease, vomiting, hind leg weakness, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration, and rapid breathing.

– The most common symptoms of diabetes are excessive drinking and urination. The dog may also experience weight loss, although the appetite increases. In addition, dogs with diabetes may also experience poor skin and coat, liver disease, vomiting, hind leg weakness, secondary bacterial infections, dehydration, and rapid breathing.

– Dogs between seven and nine years of age are usually victims of this disease. Unneutered female dogs and breeds such as Dachshunds and Beagles are at higher risk of developing this disease.

– Insulin, administered by injection, is the main medication for this disease. The types of insulin vary depending on the effect and reaction of the victim. Short-acting insulins are effective for one to four hours, mid-range insulins are effective for four to 24 hours, and long-acting insulins last eight to 28 hours. Too low a dose of insulin will not control diabetes and too high a dose can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). If possible, medications should be administered at the same times each day.

– There are also other measures to keep diabetes under control. The dog's weight and food intake should be well controlled as blood sugar is difficult to control in overweight dogs. Instead of feeding a full meal every day, experts suggest feeding several smaller ones (at least twice a day). Another way to control obesity is regular exercise.

Inspired by Richard Cussons