Can I stop giving my dog insulin? Here’s What to Do Next

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What is diabetes mellitus?

In dogs, diabetes mellitus is caused by the failure of the pancreas to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar. This is insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (also called Type 1 Diabetes). This type of diabetes usually results from destruction of most or all of the beta-cells that produce insulin in the pancreas. As the name implies, dogs with this type of diabetes require insulin injections to stabilize blood sugar levels.

How should I draw up the insulin?

Insulin is a suspension not a solution, so before administering it you must mix it. Some insulins should be gently rolled and not shaken, while others should be shaken thoroughly. Your veterinarian will advise you on how to handle the insulin. Some insulin has more of a tendency to settle out of suspension, so mixing is very important for accurate dosing.

The trick is to mix it vigorously enough to blend it without creating foam. When you have finished mixing the insulin, turn the bottle upside down to see if any of the white insulin molecules still adhere to the bottom of the bottle. If so, more mixing is needed.

Have the needle and syringe, insulin bottle, and dog ready. Then, follow these steps:

  • Remove the cap from the needle, and draw back the plunger to the appropriate dose.
  • After mixing the insulin, carefully insert the needle into the insulin bottle.
  • Inject the air from the syringe into the bottle. This air replaces the liquid you will draw out.
  • Draw out more insulin than you need, then inject the excess back into the bottle.This helps to remove any air bubbles from the syringe. Measure the dose at the edge of the plunger that is closest to the needle.

    • What blood sugar level requires insulin?

    Generally, to correct a high blood sugar, one unit of insulin is needed to drop the blood glucose by 50 mg/dl. This drop in blood sugar can range from 30-100 mg/dl or more, depending on individual insulin sensitivities, and other circumstances.

    How to Administer Insulin to Your Dog at Home