Caring for a diabetic dog can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right tools and routine, it becomes second nature! Our sweet pup, Meiko, is a great example of how a well-managed diabetes plan can help a dog live a happy and fulfilling life. Here are some of the tips and tricks we’ve learned along the way:
FreeStyle Libre Glucose Monitor on Meiko’s back.
Freestyle Libre for Easy Monitoring – Meiko wears a Freestyle Libre monitor on his back, which allows us to monitor his blood sugar levels in real time. This me
ans no constant pricking, and we can always stay ahead of any sudden changes in his glucose levels.
Optivizor Eye Protection – Since diabetes can impact vision, Meiko sometimes wears a dog “facemask” to help shield his eyes when he gets his out of control zoomies. Blindness is often quite sudden, and there are moments where Meiko get’s overly excited and will bump into anything in his path. This has been essential in keeping him comfortable and confident despite his sight loss.
Frequent Meals to Keep Him Full & Balanced – Meiko gets fed four times a day because he tends to get really hungry. Regular, portioned meals help maintain his glucose levels and prevent spikes or crashes.
His Own iPhone for 24/7 Glucose Tracking – Yes, you read that right! Meiko has his own iPhone dedicated to tracking his bloodsugar levels 24/7, so we always have access to his health data no matter where we are.
Insulin Vial Protector for Safety – Since insulin is essential for his treatment, we use an insulin vial protector to prevent breakage and keep his medication safe. We learned the hard way by accidentally dropping and breaking a bottle. This small but crucial tool gives us peace of mind.
Diapers for frequent urination – Diabetes cause excessive drinking, which leads to excessive peeing. The older our pets get, the less control they have of their bladders. Diapers are a great way to contain any accidents that Meiko may have inside the house or when he’s sleeping.