Pets Care

While you may not mind a bi-monthly or quarterly visit to the veterinarian for check ups, the matter does not end there if the symptoms of diabetes in cats and dogs have been confirmed and the pet shows high blood sugar levels.

Treating diabetes is a long process that sometimes may last a life time. If your pet has been diagnosed for diabetes, there is a strong possibility that you will be required to take care of the pet at home. Home care of a diabetic pet involves monitoring blood sugar levels and injecting insulin on a daily basis. This necessitates the need for some expertise in checking blood sugar and injecting insulin.

Diet modifications can help manage blood sugar levels in many cases. However, administering insulin is almost a key aspect of the treatment of diabetes in cats and dogs. While you learn the process of injecting insulin from your veterinarian make sure to ask about the type of syringe that should be used for the injection.

First of all, have a close look at the needle. It consists of a bevel, point and heel. Needle length is important because a 12.7 mm long needle may be too big for thin pets and likely to go right through the pinched skin and out the other side. Insulin should preferably be injected subcutaneously and an 8 mm long needle suits most pets as it makes it easier to get the insulin into the fat layer under the skin.

The capacity of the syringe is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) and is interchangeable with milliliters. One cc of insulin in the syringe is equal to 1 ml and so and so forth. The strength of insulin is measured in international units (I Us). The two common strengths are U40 and U100, which means 40 units and 100 units per milliliter. There are different types of syringes designed for both the strengths.

Earlier, these were differentiated with color codes but the practice seems to have been discontinued now. It will do you good to check the barrel to be sure. Syringe barrel size too is important and depends upon the dose that you have to inject.

The correct way to inject insulin in pets is to first pull the skin up and insert the needle, bevel side up, firmly into the skin and parallel to body. The tent that you make by pulling the skin ensures that the insulin is injected into the skin flap. Make sure that the needle does not pass through the tent. To ensure that you do not bend the needle while drawing out insulin from the ampoule, make sure that you do not insert it all the way into it. If by any chance you bend the needle discard it and start all over again.

Insulin syringes have needles that are silicon coated to protect against contamination of insulin. This is also done to make the injection as painless as possible. Using the same syringe and needle again may wear off the protective coating, causing more pain. This can also interfere with the insulin action. It may also contaminate the insulin and white precipitates may form in the vial over time.

Used syringes must be disposable according to the state laws as they are a potential health hazard. This is due to the sharp lancet and the fact that drug remnants are likely to get spoilt. Destroying disposable syringes is also essential to prevent re-use by unscrupulous elements.

As in humans, most of the diseases that affect canines result from genetic disposition, abnormalities, diseases, injury or parasitic or bacterial infections. Diabetes in dogs is similar to diabetes in cats or for that matter in humans.

The two forms of canine diabetes, diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus, are endocrinal diseases and are related to the endocrine glands or their secretions. Diabetes insipidus is a rare form of diabetes resulting from a deficiency of vasopressin (the pituitary hormone that regulates the kidneys) and is characterized by the chronic excretion of large amounts of pale dilute urine which results in dehydration and extreme thirst.

Diabetes mellitus, the more common of the two types, is a relative or absolute deficiency of insulin, the hormone that is critical for processing glucose in the body. This condition is further divided into two types – type 1 and type 2 and related to insulin in different ways. The former occurs due to insufficient production pf insulin and the latter occurs due to the inability of the cells to respond to insulin.

Pancreas produces insulin, which is responsible for controlling the concentration of glucose, the main fuel for energy. Normally, insulin controls glucose levels by ensuring that the liver does not produce excess glucose and that any excess sugar derived from the dog’s dietary intake is converted into glycogen that can be stored in the cells.

Diabetes mellitus is a condition where the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient insulin to manage these two functions. In such a condition, neither can the liver be stopped from producing glucose nor is the sugar required for energy stored. Sometimes the cells in the body develop resistance to insulin and cannot accept the glucose and therefore fail to get the required energy to function properly.

In both the conditions the extra glucose remains in the blood stream. High level of sugar in the blood eventually outstrips the capacity of the liver, which leads to the sugar slipping into urine. This leads to a process called osmosis through which water is drawn into the bladder to bring the concentration of sugar in the urine down to a consistency that is easy to expel. This leads to two of the classical symptoms of diabetes in cats and dogs that are common with humans too.

With increased levels of sugar in the blood stream, increasingly high levels of glucose are spilled over into the urine, leading to polyuria, a renal disorder that is characterized by excessive urination. On the other hand the excess water that is drawn from the body gives rise to the dehydration in the body, which the body tries to compensate by sending signals of thirst. This leads to polydipsia, excessive thirst.

If not treated in time, diabetes mellitus in your dog can prove to be more problematic than just increased urination and thirst. The inability of the cells to receive the energizing glucose can lead to weight loss and organ failures. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that must be checked in its initial stages lest it leads to exercise intolerance, frequent infections and canine blindness.

Diabetes mellitus or simply diabetes is a common condition in dogs. Howsoever scary it may sound it is not the end of the world for your dog because diabetes in canines is manageable if proper care is taken. Diet, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and medication are key aspects of adequate care.

Diabetes, however, can cause an early death of the dog if it is not treated. High blood sugar levels produce clinical symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats that can help in early detection.

Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels rise due to the inability of pancreas to produce enough insulin to manage glucose (a primary sugar) in the food that the dog ingests. In another situation, cells become resistant to the action of insulin, which also results in a high blood sugar level. If not managed within reasonable time, it leads to abnormally high blood sugar levels, a condition known as hyperglycemia.

High blood sugar results when the dog’s body is unable to process and convert glucose to energy for maintaining healthy growth. The excess glucose in the blood has to go somewhere if it is not used by the body’s systems and it leaks over to the urine. This leads to excessive urination (polyuria). As fluids in the body reduce, the dog feels the need to drink more (polydipsia) to compensate the loss due to excessive urination.

Besides these two most prominent symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats some of the other symptoms indicative of diabetes are:

* Weight loss
* Poor skin and hair coat
* Frequent bladder infections

On observing these signs, a veterinarian should be consulted at the first opportunity because untreated diabetes can lead to:

* Loss of appetite
* Vomiting
* Diabetic neuropathy, especially weakness in rear legs
* Dehydration

Left untreated, diabetes can progress and cause some life threatening disorders like diabetic acidosis, a condition of abnormally high acidity accompanied by an accumulation of ketone bodies. Some of the other complications arising out of unregulated blood sugar levels include liver and kidney dysfunction and canine blindness.

The cause of diabetes still remains a mystery despite large amounts of research that has been initiated in this area. Chronic inflammation of the pancreas and genetic predisposition are often suspected to be the cause in most of the cases. Breeds like Poodles, Schnauzers, Keeshounds, Cairn Terriers, Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels and Beagles are more predisposed to developing diabetes.

Once your dog has been diagnosed for diabetes, close monitoring of diet and regular checking of blood sugar levels is necessary. Minor increase in blood sugar can be managed by controlling and regulating diet. Abnormally high levels require insulin injections. Injection of insulin needs to be correlated with the amount, quality and timing of food intake.

If you are taking care of your dog at home, make sure you get proper instructions about how and when to inject insulin on your own. Since excess insulin can lead to hypoglycemia or extremely low blood sugar levels, this is another area that you must understand well.

Treating diabetes in cats and dogs involves regular monitoring of diet, blood sugar levels and insulin levels. The monitoring needs to be done on a daily basis and pet owners obviously cannot be expected to visit a veterinarian daily for the daily insulin dose. Understanding the basics of home care helps to manage a diabetic dog effectively.

Once the symptoms of diabetes in cats and dogs have led to a confirmed diagnosis, the goal of treatment for diabetes is to control the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Efficient control can help your pet in leading a comfortable life On the other hand uncontrolled hyperglycemia (abnormally high blood sugar) can shorten life span due to complications like kidney disease, retinopathy and arteriosclerosis.

Insulin Injections

Insulin must be administered at the time suggested by the veterinarian. Administration of the correct recommended dose is also important. Try to keep the dose as close as prescribed by understanding the markings on the syringe that you are using. Note that the markings on syringes may vary according to size of the syringe.
Injections administered should be subcutaneous and learning how to inject needs practice. Such a skill comes easily once you have done it in front of the veterinarian for a couple of times.

Monitoring Blood Sugar

High sugar levels almost always spill over to urine. Monitor how your dog responds to exogenous insulin by using strips to test level of sugar in the urine. A urine testing kit contains instructions about the change in color of the strips once it is dipped in urine. Different colors represent normal to danger zone of sugar level. In case of doubt, consult your veterinarian.

It is advisable to keep a record of the test strip results and the amount of insulin injected. A study of this record will help you in understanding the relation between dosage and level of sugar in the urine and also give a definite picture to veterinarian on your next visit.

Dietary Management

Diet plays an extremely important role in controlling blood sugar. Glucose is the primary source of energy in the body and it cannot be totally avoided. Many foods contain substances that are rich in sugar content even if they are not sweet to taste. Feed your dog with a diet that has high fiber content. A diet low in carbohydrates and fats is also recommended. The meal time schedule is related to the time of the insulin injections. Make sure you have discussed this with the veterinarian.

Exercise

Fix up a regular exercise regime to help in maintaining blood sugar levels. Such a practice may even lead to a reduction of insulin dosage over time. Make sure that you carry some source of sugar like corn syrup or honey in case of an insulin reaction especially when you are taking your dog out for a walk or exercise. As soon as you see any symptoms of hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood sugar) immediately rub some on the gums and take him to the veterinarian immediately.

Diabetes is a manageable disease and there is no reason why your canine friend cannot survive and lead a normal, healthy and active life even after being diagnosed as diabetic.

A simple sugar, glucose, is what the body needs the most to supply energy to the various body cells. This is provided through a complex process known as metabolism. One of the most important functions that go on in the body is to transfer the body’s main fuel, glucose, from the blood stream to the cells.

For transferring glucose to different cells, the pancreas in the body secretes insulin that acts in three ways.

* It prevents the liver from producing excess amounts of glucose.
* It helps the body in storing sugar for use in the future.
* It creates pathways to deliver glucose to the cells so that they get the energy they need to grow.

A defect in the pancreas due to inflammation, infection, injury or otherwise can hamper this process and the resultant condition that leads to high levels of blood sugar is known as diabetes mellitus, or simply diabetes in cats, dogs and other animals. Of the two types of diabetes mellitus, insulin dependent diabetes is more common in dogs.

Polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination of pale diluted urine) are characteristic and most indicative of all of all the symptoms of diabetes in cats and dogs. Failure to treat diabetes may lead to fatigue, loss of appetite, frequent bacterial and fungal infection, bladder problems and canine blindness.

Some breeds and dogs aged seven to nine years are more prone to develop diabetes that may require administration of exogenous insulin. Administration of insulin is mostly dependent on individual needs of each animal and type of insulin used. Insulin-glucose-response curves prepared after frequent blood tests help in determining the type, dosage and timings of administration of insulin.

Depending upon the progress of the disease, your dog’s needs for insulin may also change over time. Every change in the type of insulin and the dosage requires preparing these response charts all over again.

Pancreas of cattle and pigs has been the major sources of insulin that is injected into dogs. Gradually, animal insulin is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain and there is now an increased dependence on genetically engineered insulin.

Learning how to handle insulin and manner in which to inject it in your pet is easy. Your veterinarian is the best person to explain the exact method for administration and injection. Insulin needs to be stored at a particular temperature and should not be shaken vigorously. These instructions need to be followed strictly to derive the desired results. The expiry date that appears on the bottle is extremely important since the insulin may become ineffective after the mentioned date.

Whatever the size of the syringe, the markings on the syringe should be used to draw the exact dosage of insulin from the bottle. Insulin injections are given subcutaneously and the process requires pinching the skin of the dog along the neck or back. The needle should be placed under the skin along the long axis of the fold.

Exogenous insulin is not as good as the one produced naturally by the dog’s own pancreas. Once a dog develops diabetes, total remission is difficult. The goal of treatment is to bring down the blood sugar levels so that the dog is able to eat, drink and eliminate fluids in normal amounts.

Question:

How long a dog can survive without appropriate treatment after being diagnose of Diabetes? Is it possible for them to fully recover from Diabetes if treatment is being applied?

Daniele

Answer:

Hi Danielle,

Thank you for your query. You are to be commended for researching the use of natural alternatives.

Diabetes mellitus is a condition caused by too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. The problem with this sugar in the blood is that it binds to the different things in blood eg. hormones, thus stopping these from working. The sugar will also damage the blood vessels themselves, leading to problems like retinopathy (where the vision is altered). The sugar also effects with oxygen supply, thus making your pet sluggish. If diabetes is not treated it can cause long-term health problems.

Unfortunately, diabetes is a chronic condition and can only be managed, but not cured. However with treatment, your pet could lead a relatively normal life. If the cause of the diabetes is treatable then you might be able to ‘cure the diabetes’.

We recommend our PetAlive GlucoBalance for diabetes. GlucoBalance contains a specially selected combination of herbs known for their ability to control and balance blood sugar levels and improve insulin production and bio-availability. It also reduces high cholesterol and boosts immune functioning and protect against disease. It assists in the treatment of diabetes-related conditions like circulation problems and eye disease and promotes wound healing. GlucoBalance can be used to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue. Research has demonstrated that the ingredients in GlucoBalance help to regulate blood sugar levels. GlucoBalance is very effective used alone, or as part of a total veterinarian treatment program.

For further info, please go to:

GlucoBalance

Please let us know if there is anything else we can assist you with.

Warm regards,

The Native Remedies Team

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease of the pancreas that affects the body’s ability to control its blood sugar levels. The pancreas is responsible for producing a hormone called insulin which keeps blood sugar levels balanced.

Glucose is produced from the breaking down of starches and carbohydrates. It is absorbed through the wall of the digestive tract and passes into the bloodstream.

Insulin allows glucose to leave the bloodstream and enter the body’s tissue where it is then used as energy for the cells. With diabetes, the body either produces insufficient quantities of insulin or does not utilize insulin effectively. Glucose then builds up in the bloodstream and causes an elevated blood sugar level.

High levels of glucose can lead to a number of complications such as cataracts, liver and kidney disease, increased infections, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders and even coma and death.

What are the symptoms of Diabetes in cats and dogs?

Certain symptoms are common in cats and dogs with diabetes. However these signs may also indicate other diseases or conditions. The best way to determine if your pet has diabetes is to have his blood sugar levels checked by means of a blood test.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

* Excessive thirst
* Frequent urination
* Change in appetite
* Weight loss
* Lethargy
* General weakness
* Recurrent urinary tract infections
* Cataracts (in dogs)

Diabetes can occur in puppies (juvenile-onset diabetes) or in adult dogs (adult onset diabetes). But in cats diabetes usually only occurs in middle-aged or older adults.

What causes diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. However there are certain risk factors. These include obesity, an unhealthy diet, cortisone treatments, stress and shock. Genetics may also play a role.

What is the conventional treatment?

Conventional treatment for diabetes in cats and dogs usually includes regular insulin injections and/or a strictly controlled diet.

A diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates for instance, slows the digestive process and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. In obese animals, losing weight is also advised.

How can herbal remedies and dietary supplements help?

There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies and dietary supplements can help to both prevent diabetes and to keep it under control in animals who have already developed it.

Along with the correct lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and dietary supplements can reduce or eliminate the need for prescription medication and can also aid in preventing some of the tissue and organ damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

What is GlucoBalance?

PetAlive GlucoBalance contains a specially selected combination of herbs known for their ability to improve the production and bio-availability of insulin.

Research has demonstrated that the ingredients in GlucoBalance help to regulate blood sugar levels.

GlucoBalance is an excellent supplement for the diabetic pet and will also help to reduce high cholesterol, improve immune functioning and treat and prevent the symptoms of diabetes related conditions such as eye, bladder and circulation problems.

GlucoBalance is very effective used alone, or as part of a total veterinarian treatment program.

Use GlucoBalance Regularly:

* As a regular supplement for pets with Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes
* To control and balance blood sugar levels and improve insulin production and bio-availability
* To reduce high cholesterol
* To boost immune functioning and protect against disease
* To assist in the treatment of diabetes-related conditions like circulation problems and eye disease
* To promote wound healing
* To increase energy levels and reduce fatigue

What are the ingredients of GlucoBalance?

PetAlive GlucoBalance contains the following 100% herbal ingredients:

Vaccinium myrtilus (Bilberry): Research has demonstrated that Bilberry can reduce blood sugar levels in Type 11 Diabetes and can also increase insulin production. Bilberry is a very powerful anti-oxidant due to high levels of anthocyanosides, which help to prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. Regular use of Bilberry also helps to maintain healthy vision and is known to strengthen the tiny blood capillaries which carry oxygen to the eyes, It can also help with wound and tissue healing and other circulation problems associated with diabetes.

Galega officinalis: Research has suggested that the use of Galega officinalis can enlarge the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, which are responsible for the production on insulin. Regular use can therefore improve your pet’s ability to produce insulin.

Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) is one of the oldest medicinal herbs and has documented use in Ancient Egyptian history and Chinese Traditional Medicine. Recent research in the West has highlighted the hypoglycemic properties of this highly versatile herbal remedy, which is also known to assist with the control of high cholesterol. Clinical trials in India suggest the the use of Fenugreek may help to reduce blood sugar and harmful fats in insulin dependent diabetics. Fenugreek also has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties and is very beneficial as a digestive and kidney tonic, which in turn helps to prevent the urinary tract problems often associated with diabetic pets.

Astragalus membranaceus is also known as Huang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. More recent research has highlighted the ability of this remedy to improve the functioning of the immune system and protect against disease. This is particularly important in the case of the diabetic pet as chronic diabetes may compromise immune functioning and make your pet prone to opportunistic illnesses. Astragalus also helps to lower blood sugar levels, accelerate wound healing, relieve fatigue, lower blood pressure and regulate water metabolism, thus preventing the bloating often associated with diabetes.

Chromium: This is a mineral supplement which has been clinically proven to improve the effectiveness of insulin and is the most easily absorbed form of chromium. It also helps in the breakdown of fats and can therefore balance cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Rice Powder (inactive ingredient)

(PetAlive GlucoBalance contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

How has GlucoBalance helped others?

“I just wanted to let you all know that we have been very pleased with the results of your treatment for our cat. She had been ill with all sorts of ailments for some time and we were so upset when she was diagnosed with diabetes! Your support team have been wonderful in suggesting healthy diet etc and with the Glucobalance capsules we have seen a huge improvement.” – Sue.

“Your capsules are easy to administer. We used to have to fight to get our cat to take any medication at all and I don’t know who was more upset – us or her! It is easy to open your capsule and mix it with a little tuna and she takes it with no trouble at all – simple but very effective! Thank you for a great remedy for diabetes!” – Deb

“Our vet is very happy with us after making diet changes and using Glucobalance our dog has improved enough to receive a clean bill of health! She has just turned 10 years old and is back to her former self again that is thanks to Pet Alive! I like that you stress the health aspects and not just taking pills. Thank you for your help. We will definitely return when we need to.” – Steve B

How do we use GlucoBalance?

GlucoBalance must be used regularly for maximum effect, to improve insulin production and availability and to protect your pet against illness and the harmful effects of diabetes on the body.

It can be given alone, or in conjunction with conventional veterinarian treatment. Ask your vet to monitor your pet’s progress to determine whether regular use of GlucoBalance will allow a reduction in conventional treatment.

The capsules are easy to administer to pets and may be given whole or opened and mixed with food or a treat, depending on your pet’s size and preferences.

Dosage:
Cats and small dogs: 1/2 capsule twice daily.
Medium dogs: One capsule twice daily.
Large dogs: One to two capsules twice daily.

Caution: Safety during pregnancy and nursing has not yet been established.

How long until I see results?

Degree and speed of improvement differs from animal to animal, depending on many factors. With regular use, you should begin to notice a general improvement in health within 3 – 6 weeks – as well as a reduction in diabetes related conditions.

Remember that diabetes is best treated holistically, with medication, diet and lifestyle factors all receiving equal attention (see below for some great tips on how to help your pet)

How long does one bottle last?

One bottle of GlucoBalance contains 60 capsules and will last for 15 – 60 days, depending on the size of your pet.

What else can I do to help my pet?

* Regular daily exercise is essential to help keep your pet healthy, fit and at his ideal weight.
* Ensure your pet is eating a balanced high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food.
* Routine is very important with diabetes, so ensure your pet’s meals are always at the same time every day.
* Several small meals rather than one big one may help with blood sugar control.
* Avoid commercially prepared dog foods which may contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease of the pancreas that affects the body’s ability to control its blood sugar levels. The pancreas is responsible for producing a hormone called insulin which keeps blood sugar levels balanced.

Glucose is produced from the breaking down of starches and carbohydrates. It is absorbed through the wall of the digestive tract and passes into the bloodstream.

Insulin allows glucose to leave the bloodstream and enter the body’s tissue where it is then used as energy for the cells. With diabetes, the body either produces insufficient quantities of insulin or does not utilize insulin effectively. Glucose then builds up in the bloodstream and causes an elevated blood sugar level.

High levels of glucose can lead to a number of complications such as cataracts, liver and kidney disease, increased infections, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders and even coma and death.

What are the symptoms of Diabetes in cats and dogs?

Certain symptoms are common in cats and dogs with diabetes. However these signs may also indicate other diseases or conditions. The best way to determine if your pet has diabetes is to have his blood sugar levels checked by means of a blood test.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

* Excessive thirst
* Frequent urination
* Change in appetite
* Weight loss
* Lethargy
* General weakness
* Recurrent urinary tract infections
* Cataracts (in dogs)

Diabetes can occur in puppies (juvenile-onset diabetes) or in adult dogs (adult onset diabetes). But in cats diabetes usually only occurs in middle-aged or older adults.

What causes diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. However there are certain risk factors. These include obesity, an unhealthy diet, cortisone treatments, stress and shock. Genetics may also play a role.

What is the conventional treatment?

Conventional treatment for diabetes in cats and dogs usually includes regular insulin injections and/or a strictly controlled diet.

A diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates for instance, slows the digestive process and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. In obese animals, losing weight is also advised.

How can herbal remedies and dietary supplements help?

There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies and dietary supplements can help to both prevent diabetes and to keep it under control in animals who have already developed it.

Along with the correct lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and dietary supplements can reduce or eliminate the need for prescription medication and can also aid in preventing some of the tissue and organ damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

What is GlucoBalance?

PetAlive GlucoBalance contains a specially selected combination of herbs known for their ability to improve the production and bio-availability of insulin.

Research has demonstrated that the ingredients in GlucoBalance help to regulate blood sugar levels.

GlucoBalance is an excellent supplement for the diabetic pet and will also help to reduce high cholesterol, improve immune functioning and treat and prevent the symptoms of diabetes related conditions such as eye, bladder and circulation problems.

GlucoBalance is very effective used alone, or as part of a total veterinarian treatment program.

Use GlucoBalance Regularly:

* As a regular supplement for pets with Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes
* To control and balance blood sugar levels and improve insulin production and bio-availability
* To reduce high cholesterol
* To boost immune functioning and protect against disease
* To assist in the treatment of diabetes-related conditions like circulation problems and eye disease
* To promote wound healing
* To increase energy levels and reduce fatigue

What are the ingredients of GlucoBalance?

PetAlive GlucoBalance contains the following 100% herbal ingredients:

Vaccinium myrtilus (Bilberry): Research has demonstrated that Bilberry can reduce blood sugar levels in Type 11 Diabetes and can also increase insulin production. Bilberry is a very powerful anti-oxidant due to high levels of anthocyanosides, which help to prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. Regular use of Bilberry also helps to maintain healthy vision and is known to strengthen the tiny blood capillaries which carry oxygen to the eyes, It can also help with wound and tissue healing and other circulation problems associated with diabetes.

Galega officinalis: Research has suggested that the use of Galega officinalis can enlarge the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, which are responsible for the production on insulin. Regular use can therefore improve your pet’s ability to produce insulin.

Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) is one of the oldest medicinal herbs and has documented use in Ancient Egyptian history and Chinese Traditional Medicine. Recent research in the West has highlighted the hypoglycemic properties of this highly versatile herbal remedy, which is also known to assist with the control of high cholesterol. Clinical trials in India suggest the the use of Fenugreek may help to reduce blood sugar and harmful fats in insulin dependent diabetics. Fenugreek also has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties and is very beneficial as a digestive and kidney tonic, which in turn helps to prevent the urinary tract problems often associated with diabetic pets.

Astragalus membranaceus is also known as Huang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. More recent research has highlighted the ability of this remedy to improve the functioning of the immune system and protect against disease. This is particularly important in the case of the diabetic pet as chronic diabetes may compromise immune functioning and make your pet prone to opportunistic illnesses. Astragalus also helps to lower blood sugar levels, accelerate wound healing, relieve fatigue, lower blood pressure and regulate water metabolism, thus preventing the bloating often associated with diabetes.

Chromium: This is a mineral supplement which has been clinically proven to improve the effectiveness of insulin and is the most easily absorbed form of chromium. It also helps in the breakdown of fats and can therefore balance cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Rice Powder (inactive ingredient)

(PetAlive GlucoBalance contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

How has GlucoBalance helped others?

“I just wanted to let you all know that we have been very pleased with the results of your treatment for our cat. She had been ill with all sorts of ailments for some time and we were so upset when she was diagnosed with diabetes! Your support team have been wonderful in suggesting healthy diet etc and with the Glucobalance capsules we have seen a huge improvement.” – Sue.

“Your capsules are easy to administer. We used to have to fight to get our cat to take any medication at all and I don’t know who was more upset – us or her! It is easy to open your capsule and mix it with a little tuna and she takes it with no trouble at all – simple but very effective! Thank you for a great remedy for diabetes!” – Deb

“Our vet is very happy with us after making diet changes and using Glucobalance our dog has improved enough to receive a clean bill of health! She has just turned 10 years old and is back to her former self again that is thanks to Pet Alive! I like that you stress the health aspects and not just taking pills. Thank you for your help. We will definitely return when we need to.” – Steve B

How do we use GlucoBalance?

GlucoBalance must be used regularly for maximum effect, to improve insulin production and availability and to protect your pet against illness and the harmful effects of diabetes on the body.

It can be given alone, or in conjunction with conventional veterinarian treatment. Ask your vet to monitor your pet’s progress to determine whether regular use of GlucoBalance will allow a reduction in conventional treatment.

The capsules are easy to administer to pets and may be given whole or opened and mixed with food or a treat, depending on your pet’s size and preferences.

Dosage:
Cats and small dogs: 1/2 capsule twice daily.
Medium dogs: One capsule twice daily.
Large dogs: One to two capsules twice daily.

Caution: Safety during pregnancy and nursing has not yet been established.

How long until I see results?

Degree and speed of improvement differs from animal to animal, depending on many factors. With regular use, you should begin to notice a general improvement in health within 3 – 6 weeks – as well as a reduction in diabetes related conditions.

Remember that diabetes is best treated holistically, with medication, diet and lifestyle factors all receiving equal attention (see below for some great tips on how to help your pet)

How long does one bottle last?

One bottle of GlucoBalance contains 60 capsules and will last for 15 – 60 days, depending on the size of your pet.

What else can I do to help my pet?

* Regular daily exercise is essential to help keep your pet healthy, fit and at his ideal weight.
* Ensure your pet is eating a balanced high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food.
* Routine is very important with diabetes, so ensure your pet’s meals are always at the same time every day.
* Several small meals rather than one big one may help with blood sugar control.
* Avoid commercially prepared dog foods which may contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives.

It can take a while for us humans to suspect that we may have diabetes and go in for tests. It’s much harder for us to spot the symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

The disease tends to sneak up and the symptoms will often go unnoticed until the disease has become quite advanced. Here are some things you should always watch for in your dog and take them to a vet to be tested if you suspect that your dog may have developed canine diabetes.

**Canine Diabetes Symptoms To Watch For**

Drinking a Lot of Water

Although it’s natural for your dog to be thirstier in the summer or after a bit of rambunctious exercise, excessive drinking throughout the day and that continues for several days can be a sign of diabetes. If you notice that you’re having to fill the water bowl more often, you may want to have your dog tested for canine diabetes. Other diseases may also cause an increase in thirst as well, so having a veterinarian check your pet is a good idea.

Urinating a Lot

It stands to reason, if your dog is drinking more, then they’re going to be wanting outside a lot more too. So, although you may not notice the increased water intake right away (as it can be very gradual), you’ll certainly be made aware of the increased need to urniate (think revolving door).

Your Dog May Develop “Sweet Breath”

Most of us dog owners will complain of a dog’s “bad breath”, so you’ll most likely notice if the breath takes on a “sweet” smell. This is a sign that your dog’s blood sugar levels have risen to high and need to be brought under control.

Shaking

No, we’re not talking about how a dog shakes after they get wet. This is a subtle shaking/shivering that accompanies hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and is very serious. If this symptom appears, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately as it is very serious and your might require an injection of insulin.

Weakness and Tiredness

Your dog may also appear weak and very tired most days. If your normally active dog suddenly develops these symptoms over the course of a few days, have them tested for diabetes.

Loss of Weight

Normally, being overweight can bring on canine diabetes, but sometimes a dog will begin to steadily lose weight instead. Regardless of whether this is from the onset of diabetes or not, you need to get your dog to a veterinarian right away for tests to rule out any other type of serious disease.

About the Author:

(c) 2005. Rose Smith is the owner of Caring For Canines and invites you to explore the benefits of holistic dog medicines and remedies. To read more about dog-related health problems and advice, please visit: http://www.caringforcanines.com/articles-health-problems.shtml