[Allie]

Our Jack Russell Terrier was diagnosed with diabetes several years ago. We have to give him insulin injections and monitor his diet. Does anyone else have a diabetic dog or cat?

[HomeRepairsDude]

Originally Posted by Allie

Our Jack Russell Terrier was diagnosed with diabetes several years ago. We have to give him insulin injections and monitor his diet. Does anyone else have a diabetic dog or cat?

You know, I still find it so odd that dogs and cats are capable of having diabetes, but ever since I found out...I have worried that my cat may have it, although apparently she doesn't. Anyway I wish you all the best with your dog and his health, but it also makes me think about how common diabetes is with cats and dogs. You don't really hear about too many cases of it, besides knowing that it's out there.

[Allie]

I've had two dogs during my lifetime so far who have been diabetic. Everyone thinks it's strange because I'm diabetic too. At least I know the symptoms of problems to look for.

[Bella]

I had a diabetic cat who, unfortunately, didn't survive for long after he was disgnosed. I didn't pick up on the warning signs early enough and by the time I got him to the vet his glucose was so high it was impossible to get it under control. I went through about a month and a half of giving him shots everyday, but it didn't help.

Good luck with your dogs. From what I've been told, diabetic animals can live a relatively normal life as long as it's diagnosed early enough.

[Allie]

Thanks Bella! I have been doing OK with him so far. He is losing his eyesight but it's unavoidable. I've been giving him insulin for 10 years now and I guess time is catching up with him.

[Bella]

That is sad about the loss of eyesight, but I really think it is a credit to you that he has lived this long as a diabetic. When I tell people what I went through trying to keep my cat alive they think I'm nuts. The fact that your dog is still here just goes to show how much you love him. As far as I'm concerned, pets are family members too