Treating a dog with diabetes is a significant financial commitment, costing an average of $2,000–$3,000+ per year for insulin, syringes, specialized food, and regular veterinary monitoring. Monthly expenses generally range from $30–$150+ for insulin, plus additional costs for tests to ensure the diabetes is well-regulated.

How much does it cost to treat a dog with diabetes?

Diabetes in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, & Insulin Cost. A diabetes diagnosis for your pup can be scary, and treating diabetes in dogs can be expensive. The cost of insulin for dogs can range from $30 – $150 monthly. That could be on top of the monthly costs of specialty foods and vet visits, too.

How expensive is a diabetes service dog?

Another challenge with diabetic alert dogs is that they typically cost between $8,000 and $20,000 initially. Although some organizations provide free service dogs if you pay for the training, so it may be worth doing more research.

Is diabetes painful for dogs?

While diabetes itself isn't a painful condition, it can lead to other health issues that can cause your dog pain. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if pain medication, such as an opioid or analgesic that is safe for use in dogs, would help relieve your dog's pain.

Can I reverse diabetes in my dog?

Unfortunately diabetes is not curable in dogs, and the vast majority of diabetic dogs require insulin injections for life once diagnosed. However, addressing underlying causes, as well as spaying females and treating Cushing's disease, can allow the diabetes to be more easily and successfully controlled.

Treating Your Diabetic Dog: PDSA Petwise Pet Health Hub

What if I can't afford my dog insulin?

First, ask your veterinarian for a discount. Some veterinarians may be willing to provide a discount for those in need, so don't be afraid to ask. Also, there are organizations that offer financial assistance for pet owners who need help paying for veterinary care, including medications like insulin.

What happens if diabetes is left untreated in a dog?

Left untreated, diabetes can cause damage to your pet's kidneys, eyes, nervous system, and even lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In dogs, one of the most common complications is the development of cataracts, which can lead to blindness.

Will insurance cover a diabetic service dog?

A diabetic alert dog (DAD) can warn you about dropping glucose levels, retrieve medical supplies, and give you physical support. But private insurers, Medicare, and Medicaid do not cover the costs of service animals. If you have diabetes, you may sometimes experience low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia.

What will the vet do for a dog with diabetes?

Insulin. If insulin is recommended, your veterinarian will prescribe an initial dose and type of insulin that best suits your pet's individual needs. The veterinary team will teach you how to give insulin injections, which involve a very small needle and are generally very well tolerated by pets.

What happens if you don't treat your dog for diabetes?

Over time, dogs lose weight and energy. Some dogs develop cataracts and vision loss. In severe, uncontrolled cases, dogs can develop diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life‑threatening emergency.

What breeds of dogs are prone to diabetes?

Genetics – The disease is more prevalent in certain breeds of dogs because of genetic predisposition. Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Terrier breeds, Toy Poodles, Pomeranians, Miniature Schnauzers, and Keeshonds are more prone to diabetes than other breeds.

Is it wrong to put down a dog with diabetes?

If your dog's quality of life is poor and there isn't a reasonable expectation that it will improve, your veterinarian can talk to you about euthanasia. While end-of-life decision-making is always difficult, euthanasia is often the humane way to prevent more suffering.

How quickly can a dog go blind with diabetes?

Most dogs with diabetes will quickly see changes in vision and formation of cataracts after becoming diabetic. Affected dogs often lose sight within five to six months of being diagnosed. Vision loss from diabetes can occur quickly, with complete vision loss occurring within 48 hours of the first symptom.

Is there an alternative to giving a dog insulin?

While insulin injections remain the cornerstone of diabetes treatment in pets, alternatives such as dietary management, oral medications, weight control, and supplements may play a supportive role in specific cases. However, these approaches are rarely sufficient on their own and require close veterinary supervision.

Why is my diabetic dog shaking and panting?

If your dog has diabetes, shaking and panting can mean their blood sugar is too low. If you haven't had your dog checked for diabetes and your dog tends to shake and pant before meals, you should go to the vet as soon as possible for further guidance.

What can trigger diabetes in dogs?

A diet that's too high in carbs and sugar can lead to some dogs developing type II diabetes, as well as contributing to obesity. And a diet that's too high in fat can cause pancreatitis, another primary cause of diabetes. The type of fat you feed your dog matters as well.

How to naturally treat dog diabetes?

Treatment of diabetes once diagnosed:

1. Feed a low carbohydrate diet, no simple sugars. ...
2. Home prepared or commercial raw diets can be extremely beneficial. ...
3. Dogs will require insulin, most likely lifelong. ...
4. All dry kibble and dry grain or legume-based treats should be removed from the diet.
5. Monitor glucose levels.

Can a dog grow out of diabetes?

Diabetes in dogs is not something that can be cured, but it is a manageable condition that is treated with a combination of medication and a controlled, balanced diet.

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