Wondering if you are seeing signs your dog with diabetes is dying can be difficult. How do you know if this is just a bump in the road, or if you are nearing the end of your sweet dog’s life? To help provide some comfort and clarity, integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby invited end-of-life-care veterinarian Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff to share her perspective.
Diabetes is a disease that many people are aware of, partly because it is common in humans as well as in pets. But that doesn’t mean that finding out your dog has diabetes is any less life-altering, not to mention, emotionally overwhelming.
If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, you may have a lot of questions. Some probably center around the logistics of managing the disease itself—how to administer insulin to your dog, what to do if your diabetic dog won’t eat, etc. Others are much more painful to consider. In the back of your mind, you may be wondering how you will recognize the signs your dog with diabetes is dying. Or you might be asking yourself if you will know when it is time to put a diabetic dog down.
These are hard questions, and there are no simple answers. But understanding a bit about canine diabetes, learning how to recognize the signs your dog is declining, and knowing how to assess his or her quality of life can help guide you in this difficult decision-making process.
A quick overview of diabetes
Dogs with diabetes cannot properly utilize the sugar (i.e. glucose) in their bloodstream because their pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Without insulin, glucose can’t move into the cells of the tissues and organs. This means the glucose that the cells need to use for energy is stuck in the bloodstream, and therefore unavailable to them.
Symptoms
As a result, dogs with insulin-deficient diabetes seem “dull” or “listless”—they are lethargic dogs without much energy. Plus, diabetes causes dogs to have polydipsia and polyuria (meaning they have increased thirst in dogs and urinate a lot). Often, these dogs are losing weight but eating and may be constantly hungry.
Additionally, some diabetic dogs will show other signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or rapid vision loss from cataracts in dogs. And dogs with advanced diabetes may also experience some mental confusion.
Diagnosis
If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible. He or she will perform an examination and use diagnostic tests (e.g., blood work and urinalysis) to determine if your dog has diabetes (or another condition, such as Cushing’s disease in dogs, that has similar symptoms).
Treatment
Managing diabetes typically involves twice-daily insulin injections (and often switching to a diabetic-friendly dog food) for the rest of the dog’s life. Plus, some dogs have chronic skin or urinary tract infections (UTIs in dogs) secondary to their diabetes. These concurrent conditions can mean your dog needs more medications, special shampoos, and daily maintenance activities (e.g. cleaning skin folds or wiping after your dog goes potty).
For many dogs (and their people), the new routines simply become a part of daily life. But for other dogs (and dog parents), the new food, medications, and changes can be quite stressful. It probably goes without saying, but dogs who take the changes in stride are more likely to tolerate long-term care for their disease.
How long can a dog live with diabetes?
How well a dog adjusts to the new care routine can definitely make a difference in how long a dog lives after diagnosis. But so can the severity of diabetes, how easy it is to manage diabetes if your dog has other life-limiting conditions (e.g., kidney failure in dogs), and what sorts of diabetic complications your dog might develop.
Therefore, it is difficult to place a specific timeline on your dog’s life expectancy and quality of life-based solely on the diagnosis of diabetes. The veterinary literature reports a mean survival time after diagnosis that ranges from 17 months to 30 months (depending on the paper). But so many factors come into play that I hesitate to even give you those numbers.
For example, sometimes the symptoms of diabetes may gradually appear. And they may be so subtle that you don’t notice them, or you chalk them up to aging. It isn’t until your vet performs senior bloodwork that you discover your dog has developed diabetes. When this is the case, it may be possible to manage the disease for several years while your dog continues enjoying life.
In other cases, diabetes progresses rapidly or the dog experiences dangerous complications like diabetic ketoacidosis in dogs. At the time of diagnosis, the dog’s diabetes is already severe. And he or she may not have more than a few weeks or months of good-quality time left.
Therefore, rather than relying on the published average lifespan of a dog with diabetes, I recommend talking to your regular veterinarian (or a hospice veterinarian) who is familiar with your dog. He or she may be able to give you a better idea of what to expect in your dog’s situation.
What are the signs your dog with diabetes is dying?
No matter when the diagnosis is made, or what sort of survival time your vet predicts, you may find yourself asking “How will I know that it is time for euthanasia?” or “What signs will I see in the final stages of my dog’s diabetes?”
Each dog will be different. This means there is no easy answer to the question of when (or if) your dog will die from diabetes. However, there are things to watch for that can let you know your sweet companion is struggling and nearing the end of his or her life.
Signs of the final stages of diabetes include:
- Severe increases in drinking and urination
- Dehydration despite drinking a lot of water
- Lack of appetite or disinterest in normal food
- Nausea, drooling, dog keeps licking lips
- Vomiting
- Sudden weight loss (even if your dog is still eating well)
- Blindness (sudden worsening of vision, presence of cataracts)
- Sudden weakness or severe lethargy
- Change in the smell of your dog’s breath (may smell like nail polish or garlic)
- Dog breathing fast (when your dog is at rest and not hot or excited)
- Sleeping much more than normal
- Periods of time when your dog seems unresponsive, or can’t easily be woken up
- Collapse
- Dog seizures
Take action if you notice these signs
If you are seeing signs of advanced diabetes, it is time to have a recheck appointment with your vet. He or she may be able to add medications, adjust your dog’s insulin dosage, or suggest a diet change if your dog is otherwise medically stable. Sometimes that is enough to get your dog back to feeling good again.
On the other hand, if your veterinary team determines your dog is experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), that is a life-threatening emergency. Your vet may need to hospitalize your dog in order to hopefully save his or her life. Therefore, don’t delay in seeking veterinary care, especially when your dog is showing severe or concerning symptoms.
How do you know when “doing everything” isn’t the right decision anymore?
At some point though, you may realize your dog is getting tired of the blood draws to check blood sugar levels, the insulin injections, and the vet visits. Or, the financial burden of caring for a diabetic dog may become too much to handle. Also, it is understandable to experience caregiver fatigue. Keeping up with all your dog’s needs requires a huge investment of time and energy.
Diabetes is not an easy disease to manage. It can be very frustrating for you, your dog, and their entire care team. When the strain of the treatments becomes too much, some people consider hospice care for their diabetic dog.
What does hospice care for diabetic dogs involve?
Starting dog hospice care might mean having an official consultation with a hospice veterinarian. Or it may simply involve having a conversation with your normal vet.
In hospice, the focus changes from extending your dog’s life to keeping him or her comfortable. You may decide to continue insulin injections, but not do the recheck visits and blood work as often (or at all). Perhaps you will still give your dog the diabetic prescription diet. But you may also offer whatever foods it takes to get your sweet pup eating again. And you may give your dog daily anti-nausea medication, like Cerenia for dogs, to prevent vomiting and nausea.
How do you measure the quality of life for diabetic dogs?
Whether or not you decide on hospice care, your focus will shift to evaluating overall quality of life (QOL) toward the end of your dog’s life. You may want to fill out a quality-of-life scale for dogs regularly. This is a good way to see if his or her days are gradually getting worse. Or, it can be helpful to use a calendar to track QOL. Marking the good days (green), ok days (yellow), and bad days (red) provides a visual representation of how the majority of your dog’s days are going.
As you evaluate your dog’s QOL, ask yourself:
- Is he or she eating? Does he or she still enjoy treats?
- Does he or she seem nauseous or vomit on a regular basis?
- Is my dog still able to enjoy his or her favorite things? Does my dog still dislike the same things?
- Is he or she able to sleep well at night? And does he or she seem awake and alert during the day?
- Is my dog able to keep himself or herself clean? If not, does my dog allow me to clean him or her?
How do you know when it is time for euthanasia?
When you are performing the QOL evaluations and you see multiple areas of your dog’s life declining, it may be time to prepare for your dog’s euthanasia. The final stages of diabetes can be incredibly difficult for a dog, and incredibly difficult for us to witness.
When we know our sweet pup is nearing the end of his or her life, offering a way out of the suffering is a kind and merciful option. Our hearts never feel ready to let our beloved companions pass on. But at some point, watching them struggle is even harder than setting them free.
If your dog worsens suddenly, you may need to say goodbye during an emergency vet visit. I know this isn’t easy, and it may not be the way you pictured it. But in the midst of a rapid decline, quickly providing relief is the best thing you can do for your dog.
On the other hand, if your dog is declining more gradually, you may have time to make some plans. You can decide if you want an in-home dog euthanasia or if you want to make an appointment with your regular vet. And you can have a special day full of “bucket list” experiences for your pup. Maybe you allow your pup to eat whatever he wants. Or take him or her on a ride to the park or to see favorite friends and family members. You know what would make it meaningful to you and your dog.
Thinking about your diabetic dog’s final days
These are not easy things to think about or to plan. But taking a bit of time to prepare for your dog’s final days (if possible) allows you to make them the best they can possibly be.
But, whether you say goodbye to your diabetic dog unexpectedly, or at the end of a beautifully-planned day together, know this. Your dog loves you and knows you are doing your best for him or her. And at the end of the day, that is what matters.
How did you know it was time to put your dog with diabetes down?
Please share your experiences.
marishkinov says
I stumbled on here today, 10 days after I lost my baby girl, Mishka. She was diagnosed with diabetes in early 2022. I noticed it progressed towards the end RAPIDLY. I had set up an appointment on Monday for her final day here…she didnt want to eat, she drank a little, but didnt want to move..She decided to leave that night..I found her in her bed exactly how I left her..tucked in her blanket with my pillow under her head…she lived 2 years past her predicted death. She was 14 years old.
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I’m still in shock and still numb but I know she’s better now. no longer sick. no longer blind.
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so anyone reading this, if your gut feels tight..make the trip. If your dog (like my baby girl) hides all pain, but acts ‘off’ take them in. Don’t wait like I did.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Marishkinov,
My heart goes out to you with your recent loss of Mishka. I know her passing was not what you had planned, but what a blessing she was at home in her own bed where she found comfort and peace. I hope with time your grief will fade. May Mishka’s memory live on and be with you always.
Lexi says
Hello, I don’t normally do this but it’s hard to confide in people about this. I was reading this last night because I knew my Shiba Inu chihuahua was close to the end but I thought for sure we had more time to give him a bucket list day. He was only 11 but on his 2nd or 3rd year after the diabetes diagnosis. I only stumbled on this page out of curiosity because he wasn’t eating his dinner last night but I figured by morning I’d know for sure the timeline we had left. Well, I did. He wouldn’t get off the ground and was puking in the early morning hours. The labored breathing was how I knew it was time. I had never seen him like this. I knew he was sick a few days last week but I was at college and when I came back, he would perk up. I chalked it up to doggy depression but clearly that wasn’t it. I’m happy we had a semi-local vet to help him go peacefully without having to suffer any longer. I miss my beautiful boy Gus. He was too perfect for this world and I regret not staying with him last night when I knew he was struggling.
What I hope you take away from this if you are like me and don’t know the signs to look for because having a diabetic dog means they’re always thirsty or going potty, look for lethargy. That was his first sign. Then came puking, both not something normal for him. And when he all together stopped eating, it was clear I needed to look for what was causing this. Please notice the signs sooner than I did. When they start to have labored breathing and struggle to lift their head or stand, you know it’s time.
If it is not too much to ask I just hope someone out there can think of me or pray for me. I have never cried so much in my life and it is taking a toll on my health. Dogs are our children.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Lexi,
My heart aches for you with your loss of Gus. I am so sorry he declined so quickly, and you had to make the heart wrenching decision to say goodbye. Try not to carry the burden of guilt for not being with him during that last night. I am certain he knew how much you loved him, and it is clear he was a major part of your life. I hope with time your grief will fade and you can find joy in all the great memories you shared. Praying for your strength and comfort as you continue life’s journey. Bless you. ♥
Rob Clendaniel says
We lost our precious boy today at 14 after nearly 3 years of diabetics. His last 12 hours or so,his breathing was extremely fast and labored.He couldn’t get comfortable or even lay down. I am troubled because he still felt warm hours after and was limp when we buried him. I pray he wasn’t in a coma but there was no sign of breathing and his eyes were slightly opened. If he was,I don’t think he would have recovered. What a horrible ordeal for all of us. Forever heartbroken.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Rob,
I am so sorry for the recent loss of your senior boy. I can only imagine how much you miss him. What a blessing you were home with him and able to stay by his side until his last breath. May his memory live on and bring you comfort as you continue life’s journey.
Holly says
I will definitely pray for you baby. You are strong and brave and such a good mama to your fur baby. What you wrote eased my mind and heart over my puppers. Letting him go will be so hard!
Karen Holland says
Dear Lexi
Praying that God will comfort you at this time of loss. I have three little dogs. 2 yorkies snda chiwawa and was looking for info because our 14 year old Yorkie is drinking much more than before.
I understand how upset you must be xx Our dogs really are our family. I hope and pray that you can give thanks for the years you had with your little dog and keep remembering the lovely times. God bless you in Jesus name Amen x🙏
Stefanie Poucher says
Hello Lexi, let me start by saying I have no idea what you’re going through, but I know it must be utterly painful. I took, have a Gus who was diagnosed with diabetes a week ago. There’s just something in me that wants a second opinion. If you would have known would you have done that Once again, I’m so so sorry for your loss and will send calming of your heart, comfort and healing thoughts your way.
Cheryl hayman says
hi my little dog he’s only 6 years old chihuahua just took him to vets today vet said he has diabetes or organ failure don’t know yet had blood test today 16/4/24 I have to make a big decision my heart is broken do I keep him knowing he’s going to get worse or put him to sleep he’s so young
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Cheryl,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your little pup. I am not sure you can truly make an informed decision until you have the blood test results and get a definitive diagnosis. If your boy has diabetes, then it is possible to start treatment and offer him a good quality of life for several years to come. I can only imagine how worried you are for your sweet boy, but try to stay calm and be patient with the testing process. Praying for favorable results and a clear path forward. Bless you and your little guy. ♥
Erika Hockenberry says
Junior (10.5 yo Maltese) was being scheduled to have ACL surgery. At the pre-op testing he was diagnosed with diabetes with ketones in his urine. Treatment plan was Insulin injections 2x a day. On top of his ACL issue it’s been very difficult getting Junior to cooperate with the diabetes treatment. .
Initially I wasn’t able to get any shots, but the vet was very patient and helpful teaching me and letting me bring him in so I was able to get a few days worth of shots in. His levels went down a little (still very high though) and he got a little spunk back. Then Junior became very aggressive and we have not been able to give him shots. He’s tried to bite me so I began to use a muzzle. He was even able to get that off. Real spunky doggie. Then he stopped trusting me altogether and would try biting me just for a face or butt wipe. End result…now he is in full blown ketosis. His breathing is being affected as well. He’s not eating. Lethargic 24/7. In crying all day. I think it’s time to put him and my family at rest with this ordeal because no one has quality life anymore. So sad. He brought us so much happiness over the years, but the last month has been complete sadness, stress and anxiety.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Erika,
My heart breaks for you and this tragic situation you are facing with Junior. I agree, it sounds like saying goodbye may be the most loving option and only way to offer your sweet boy freedom from his suffering. I am sorry the stress is affecting the whole family and understand why this is such a difficult decision. Praying for strength to make this emotional choice and wishing comfort and peace for everyone involved. Bless you all. ♥
Kim says
Thank you for the article, we adopted a chihuahua mix 5 years ago at age 7-9. She is about 12-14 now. We adopted her because she was a uncontrolled diabetic and years in foster/shelters. I couldn’t stand seeing it despite already having 2 dogs. our previous dog that died of old age at 13 we managed her diabetes for 7 years after diagnosis. She received diabetic care right from the start.
Our chihuahua however was not taken care of well by the doctors / shelters (sadly not given correct instructions how to treat her, not the shelters fault). When we adopted her at 7ish she already had cataracts and glucose levels were really all over the place and high.
fast forward 5 years later. She is spunky and still runs around and plays. However we have noticed when given her usual 3cc’s insulin for years it now can be too for her. we had to even give her corn syrup and more food. Her sugar was 50-60 when we checked. I also throw away the insulin vial if it gets low because I want to make sure the insulin stays consistent and doesn’t loose potency
50:/: of the time now she needs only needs 2cc’s but other times she’s too high a needs 3cc’s. Same food, no cookies, we use a measuring cup to keep it consistent. Why all of a sudden a change? I also noticed her good eye now seems to have cataracts in it. I’m fearing her organs may be failing with the glucose fluctuation changes and rapid eye change. What is the reason why all of a sudden sometimes a dog doesn’t need as much insulin after years at that dose?
Thank you!
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Kim,
Thank you for being willing to take in a dog with special needs. You are such a blessing! I am not sure I have a definitive answer for why your girl’s insulin needs have changed. It could be that with a consistent diet and good control of her blood sugar, some of her body’s insulin resistance has decreased and is allowing her cells to respond to her body’s own insulin better. I do think it would be good to keep your vet updated on this new development. They may want to do some lab work just to make sure nothing is getting missed. Your girl is very lucky to have you taking such good care of her. Wishing you both all the best for many happy days ahead and keep up the good work!
Colleen Lee says
Hi,
My lab/ terrier mix is 9 1/2 years old. She was diagnosed with diabetes almost 5 years ago. I have been giving her 9 units of vetsulin 2 twice a day. She’s been doing fine. Then all of a sudden, 4 days ago, she started turning down her food (which she would do once in a while). But the next day she seemed less energetic and still not wanting food (I did manage to get her to eat a little though). But she wasn’t excited about going on her walk like usual. The next day she was completely lethargic. I took her to urgent care and her kidney and liver results had gone up since her last blood work six months ago. That Dr wants me to follow up with my regular vet. He seems to think this is the beginning of the end. She’s still struggling. She’s slightly more alert, but can’t jump up on the couch, she seems to not be steady when walking, still doesn’t want to eat and hasn’t had a bowl movement in 2 days. This has happened so fast and so severe it has blind sided me. I know I have to wait and talk to her Dr, But I’m lost with what is going on.
Thank you for the info you provided. It is both painful and comforting.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Colleen,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with your senior girl. It does sound like her body is struggling and her days may be limited. I wish there was a way to restore your dog’s health, but sometimes saying goodbye is the most loving option. I think it is good you are planning to discuss things with your vet. Hoping you can get the answers you need to make the best choice for you and your sweet girl. Wishing you both comfort and peace. Bless you.
Jessica says
Last month my 9 year old corgi was drinking a lot of water and kept having accidents I gave him leftover amoxicillin thinking he had a UTI and he did better. When we ran out of the medicine it started again so I brought him to the vet and they said that he had a UTI but he had a little bit of glucose in his urine and recommended blood work, but it was at Christmas time so I didn’t have the funds. I just did the blood work on Wednesday and he was diagnosed with diabetes and is in DKA, he also has developed cataracts since the last visit and lost 6 lbs. He is home and very lethargic, I started him on insulin Wednesday night, but he didn’t eat at all yesterday and is having a hard time standing. I just lost my job and we don’t have the $5k for hospitalization. I’m so heartbroken and not sure what to do, but I hate seeing him so sick. It’s crazy because he was himself last weekend other than the incontenence and excessive drinking. This is all happening so fast. What’s potentially happening in his body with the DKA, 4 doses of insulin, water and no food in 24 hours? When is it time to reach out to hospice? I feel guilty even asking that but he’s visible not well.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Jessica,
You are dealing with so much and I understand your concern for your Corgi. I admit, this does not sound good. Honestly, there is no way to know if you boy will be able to keep fighting except to give it time. It is never wrong to reach out to hospice care, and they can let you know if your pup is at this stage. How are things today? Hoping your senior guy was able to get stabilized and praying for healing. Bless you and your sweet boy.
Karen says
Our 11 year old mini schnauzer has been being treated for diabetes since mid September and we have not been able to get her stabilized. We have had 2 ER visits in the last two months for high ketones. During the last visit, her ER Dr. found heart to be enlarged and that her heart murmur is now categorized as a #4. She felt that the insulin will just not work and she suggested we should think about euthanasia. We are keeping her comfortable and continuing her shots. We also left the ER with Vetmedin. She continues to drop weight and feels like a bag of bones. She is a trooper though and still eats her food with gusto. We are loving on her and will go ahead and let her go soon. This disease is awful and the hardest ending to what was a beautiful life with our pup.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Karen,
I am so sorry you are facing this difficult decision for your beloved pup. I am glad she is still feeling ok and has kept her appetite through it all. Make the most of each day you are gifted and spoil her rotten. Wishing you both peace and comfort. Bless you and your sweet girl. ♥
Emma Edwards says
My mini schnauzer Maisie was diagnosed in July 2022, she took a while to regulate on caninsulin, several months. There is other insulin you could try before you do anything…. Ensure you give insulin 12 hrs apart, check her blood glucose daily if possible, and give her low fat, low carbohydrate food. I hope your furbaby gets better soon.
My Maisie crossed the rainbow bridge yesterday, it wasn’t the diabetes, she was diagnosed with a mammoth sarcoma in December 24, the tumour just grew so fast in a few weeks, it was a size of a grapefruit, or slightly bigger! She was 14, she has been such a trooper and a fighter the last 20 months since being diagnosed with cancer!
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Emma,
I am so sorry for your loss of Maisie. Thank you for being willing to offer advice and support to others even while working through your own grief. May the memories of the good times you shared stay with you always and continue to be a blessing in your life. ♥
Tammie says
Our lab mix girl is about 17 (we think that is her age – we rescued her 14 years ago) and was diagnosed with diabetes 3 years ago. She developed cataracts very quickly and is now nearly completely blind, but she adjusted quite well. She has been doing well on her insulin dosage until the last couple of months and despite the vet upping her dosage, we are now dealing with significant confusion, lethargy, diarrhea, weakness, and increased urination. She has been part of my daughter’s life since she was a toddler, and I know losing her will devastate my daughter. I guess I just don’t know how to determine when we are keeping her with us for our sake and not thinking of her quality of life. She can no longer go on walks which was her favorite thing, now we just do laps around the yard. She still seems to enjoy her food, though, which I have always used to gauge quality of life. We have had to euthanize beloved pets before, and it is never an easy decision. I just don’t know what to do.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Tammie,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult decision for your senior girl. I understand how hard it can be to decide when the time is right for saying goodbye. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. Hoping you can find the answers you need to help navigate this emotional path. Bless you and your family. ♥
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. How Will You Know When It’s Time to Euthanize Your Dog? 5 Caring, Heartfelt Messages
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Fernanda says
Our 11 year-old Pom was dx about 2 years ago. She’s on insulin 2x day and in the past couple of months her decline was swift and sudden. One day she was walking in the morning but come evening she couldn’t stand up. She could stay up and walk after propping her up and lots of trying and patience. Then over the days/weeks she stopped walking altogether. Now, her muscles are stiff and painful. Her hind legs are bent and crooked and her front legs stick straight. We are massaging and doing a bit of gentle stretching to help. She is drinking lots of water and still eats her food, albeit less than the normal (she used to jump, bark and beg whenever we were eating and now she just look at us disinterested). We have to hold her up to go potty and pain medication didn’t help. Our vet told us what to expect when she was diagnosed and now after her symptoms worsened.
We are waiting for the new years so we can decide what we will do. A few years ago our old Pom died suddenly at 14 during the holidays and it was traumatizing for the kids so we are hoping to be able to wait a bit more.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Fernanda,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult decision for your senior pup. I understand why you would want to wait till after the holidays and think this could be the best way to lessen the emotional impact on your family. Of course, this all depends on whether your girl is in a state of suffering or not. I encourage you to stay in close contact with your vet and update them regularly on how things are progressing. It may be a good idea to reach out to a hospice/house call vet so they can guide you through this process and ensure your girl remains comfortable for the time she has left. Praying for comfort and peace for everyone involved. Bless you and your family.
Deyanira Matsuo says
My mini pincher dog has 13yrs.. two years ago was diagnosed with diabetes the cancer. I give her the insulin twice a day. She’s been ok. But today she got her first seizure.. she was disoriented, she was trying to vomit, her back legs were giving up on her and she was scare. I give her a little of syrup and she got ok.. 3 hours later she was sleeping and we just got her so she can eat and happen again.. but this time she was just not able to stand and her head was shaking.. went she see her food it was like she didn’t care about what was happening.. she started to eat.. and she didn’t stop..
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Deyanira,
I am so sorry your senior girl is having such severe issues. What you describe has me very concerned and I am worried this may be an emergency situation. Please contact your vet right away. Praying your pup has stabilized and things have improved.
Marcela Chenoweth says
My Yorkie was diagnosed with diabetes when he was about 2 years old in 2017, since that day he has been on a low-fat diet and receiving twice daily insulin/Novolin N shots at 5 AM and 5 PM. He is still doing well although I notice that his spine is starting to stick out. He cannot seem to get enough calories, we have the low-fat dry food out for him to eat all day long and the wet low-fat dog food is given to him right before each shot daily. He still likes to run after his ball even with his cloudy eyes and limited eye-site. I’ve lived in the same home since his birth so when I notice he occasionally seems lost and cannot find his way to the dog door I worry if it’s his eye-site or if dementia is setting in. I work hard to keep him happy and as healthy as possible and my biggest fear is if I will know when he’s in pain and it will be time to let go.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Marcela,
I understand your concern for your senior pup and can only imagine how difficult it must be to watch his health start to decline. It is common in older dogs to notice signs of lean muscle loss. This may be why his spine is becoming more prominent. Have you discussed this issue with your vet? They might want to schedule an exam just to make sure nothing more serious is contributing to his condition. From what you describe, I do think your boy is experiencing some dementia symptoms. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. I am certain you will find the answers you need to help navigate this unknown path. Hoping your sweet boy has many happy days ahead. Bless you both.
1. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
2. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
3. Dementia in Dogs: When to Euthanize Your Beloved Senior Dog
4. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
Kitty Speegle says
Marcella, my yorkie is on Vetsulin and I’ve been told that Novolin N is half the price. He takes 10 units of the Vetsulin. Do you know what the ratio would be for the Novolin N ?
Thank youth
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Kitty,
I understand your concern with how expensive insulin products can be. It is ok to ask about alternatives, but this is really a discussion that needs to take place with your vet. All insulin is not the same and you even have to ensure you have the correct syringe to prevent an accidental overdose. I strongly recommend you talk with your vet or even schedule a consultation with a specialist. That is the best and safest way to find out all your options. Best wishes and good luck!
Ronny Jay says
My 13 year old Jack Russell was recently diagnosed with pancreatitis and diabetes. After a week of antibiotics, the pancreatitis subsided. But his glucose still tested over 400. The vet put him on 2 shots daily of 7 units vetsilin. It made him very sick. Beginning about 3 hours later he began to have what looked like seixures – drunk, unsteady, rapid heart beat, irregular breathing. Be that as it may, the vet wanted to raise his insulin. Which we did… which made him just as sick. I asked to switch to Novolin which he tololerated much better. (I was very careful to adjust the dosage from. 7 units of vetsilin to 3 units of Novolin.). But he still becomes lethargic about 5 hours after the injection. In either case, the closer we get to the next meal – i.e. 10 hours later – the better he feels. In fact – no symptoms at all. However the whole process repeats after he eats and I give him his insulin again. 24 hour blood sugar curves have been done – which are high but otherwise unremarkable. I understand that high blood sugar is bad, but his sight, weight, appetite, water drinking, peeing, pooping are normal. Is it possible to live with high blood sugar regardless of the numbers? Thank you, Ron
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Ronny,
I am sorry your senior guy is having so much trouble with his blood sugar and insulin therapy. It can be a tricky process to get diabetes controlled. The 24-hour glucose curves that were done- was that performed at home or in the clinic? I ask because sometimes stress in a clinical setting can alter results. There is the option to use a continuous glucose monitor (just like in human medicine) for dogs to get an accurate reading when having trouble regulating a dog with a more complicated case. You could talk to your vet to see if that is an option. From what you describe, I am suspicious that your boy is battling low blood sugar after his insulin is administered. And while high blood sugar levels can cause issues, it is much safer for blood sugar to be high rather than low. This may also be a good time to reach out for a consultation with an internal medicine specialist. I hope you can find the answers you need to ensure your pup lives a long and happy life. Best wishes to you both!
Charles Cavaricci says
Hello, my chihuahua mix is almost 13 and was diagnosed with diabetes when he was 9. He got cateracts real early like a month after being diagnosed. He eats great and i take him for walks everyday and give him his insulin 2 times a day religiously. I take him periodically to vet for glucose count. I took him about 2 weeks ago and he was at 570 so vet told me to up insulin a half unit every 12 hours. Everything was good, when i called him he used to follow my voice and come slowly. Now when I call him he looks in every direction and looks confused and starts walking away from me then stops and walks a different direction. Also has some sores on him that he licks alot. Should I be worried. Thank you
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Charles,
I am glad your dog has done so well with his insulin injections over the past 4 years. I understand why you are concerned and think any sudden change in behavior is significant and should be discussed with your vet. The confusion you have started to notice may be an early sign of dementia/cognitive dysfunction that is common in dogs as they reach their senior years. Here is a link to an article with more information: Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
As for the sores, your vet may have some ideas about ways to treat them at home to allow healing and give your pup some relief. It sounds like an exam would be a great place to start. Hoping you can get some answers and ensure your boy remains happy and continues to love life. Wishing you both the best!
Michael Bellino says
My dog is diabetic and she’s lying here with me on her last breath. I don’t have money to pay a vet and I am totally devastated watching her die.
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Michael,
My heart breaks for you as you face these last moments with your sweet girl. You are not alone. Praying her passing will be smooth and peaceful. Wishing you strength and comfort for your heart. ♥
Marsha says
I’m so very sorry about your pup just know your pup knows you were there loving and caring until the end prayers 🙏💓
Lorraine Kempton says
I just found out that my 8 year old Maltese has Cushing disease, heart murmur, cataracts, really bad diabetes and keystones in her urine and I can’t afford all the testing and hospitalization that is needed, so I’m going to watch her die also. And I’m so upset.😭
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Lorraine,
My heart aches for you and this tragic situation. Please know that hospice care is always a good option. It is ok to make your girl comfortable for the time she has left. It is also ok to choose to say goodbye before things get worse and all the joy and happiness is gone. Wishing you comfort and strength. Bless you and your sweet girl.
Dale Boyd says
My dog is nearly 10 and was diagnosed with diabetes a year ago. One of his early symptoms was confusion. He would pant and/or retreat to a corner of our yard for hours. This behaviour eventually disappeared but has suddenly started again. His confusion behaviour includes panting, isolating or lying against me. I will have blood work done again but wonder if there is something (meds?) I can give him to calm him down?
Thanks, Dale Boyd
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Dale,
I am sorry your senior guy is struggling with these symptoms of confusion again. While they could be a sign that his diabetes is no longer well regulated, these can also be symptoms of dementia/cognitive dysfunction. There are mediations and supplements that can help manage dementia and anxiety. Here is a link to another article with more information: Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
I agree having some lab work checked is the best first step. Make sure to talk to your vet about your concerns and see what they recommend for treatment. Hoping for a clear path forward. Best wishes!
Gloria Johnson says
My 11 year old shih tzu-chihuahua mix has diabetes for about 3 years now. He gets 2x day insulin injections and regular blood checks. He has a collapsing trachea for which I give him Trazodone 3 x day and theophylline 1x day. He also gets dermax 1 x day. He has now developed an extensive cataract on one eye and is developing a cataract on the other eye. His eyes are constantly inflamed and I give him Keterolac drops 2 x day, and tobramycin drops when his eyes get mucosy. He is now refusing food and losing weight. My vet refuses to euthanize him, she said she will “rehome” him. I think this is cruel in view of the fact of his poor vision and that i have been his sole owner. It would be hard for him to adjust to somewhere new with his illness and blindness. I am at a loss for what to do. Can you help me? Is it time for him to be euthanized?
Julie Buzby DVM says
Dear Gloria,
I am so sorry you are in this difficult situation. I can only imagine how hard it must be to keep up with all those medications and treatments and it has me concerned that your pup has started refusing food and losing weight. Without examining your dog, myself, it is hard to get a feel for what his quality of life truly is at this point. My best advice is to find a house call vet in your area that specializes in hospice care and in home euthanasia. They can take a look at your boy and let you know if saying goodbye is the most loving option or if there are things that can be done to make him more comfortable for a while. Ultimately, the choice is yours and it is never wrong to seek a second opinion if your intuition is telling you your boy is suffering. I hope you can find the information and help you need to make the best decision for everyone involved. Wishing you and your sweet boy peace.
Betty says
We have a 13 yr. old Yorkie poo.she has lost so much wt.is skin and bone she has been on diabetic meds a couple months .tonight I noticed she was walking funny Then I noticed she was not opening her eyes and they seemed a little crusty is this an effect of diabetes an what should I do to get her to open them she is stubborn and don’t want me to see what’s wrong..should we use warm compresses on them to see if they are stuck shut? it doesn’t look bad but feel a little crusty
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Betty,
I am sorry your little pup is struggling with eye problems. A warm compress should be ok just to see if it helps. Ultimately it would be best to have your vet take a look at your girl. She may have an eye infection that would require antibiotic drops to resolve the issue. I am hopeful this can be resolved quickly, and your girl can get back to her normal routine. Wishing you both the best.
Tonya Lawrence says
My dog was diagnosed with diabetes and is in DKA but is home and at this point stable. We have started insulin. After reading the literature on diabetes in dogs I see the symptoms that my dog has. Excessive drinking and urinating always hungry. He is on prednisone so I thought these symptoms were from that but after doing some blood work and urine he was diagnosed with diabetes. At his last visit we found out that he’s has cataracts to both eyes. I would like to know is this near the end of his life??
Julie Buzby DVM says
Hi Tonya,
I am sorry your pup is dealing with such severe symptoms but glad to hear he is stable and at home. While some dogs may not be able to recover from DKA others can wind up making a full recovery and have many years left to live. There really is no way to know how things will progress other than to keep administering the appropriate treatment and give it some time. How is your boy doing today? Hoping all is well and praying this troublesome event is now in the past. Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.