Diabetes Insipidus aka Water Diabetes?

A friend of mine's dog recently was diagnosed with Diabetes Insipidus aka Water Diabetes. With the help of their vet, they are trying different medications. Some help with that problem, but the dog doesn't adjust very well - sometimes can't get up at all, wobbly, sometimes stiff and can't get up.

I was wondering if anyone here may have experienced this with their own dog and could offer some advice?

Thanks,
Bonnie & Sushi
[email protected]

Dogs with diabetes NEED insulin.

My dog lived with diabetes for 5 years. He had a shot of insulin twice a day for all of that time. Diabetes cannot be controlled by diet or other means.

The vet will work to find the correct dosage for the dog. A strict schedule of feeding and a special diet is paramount. Some dogs can be regulated easily, others take a long time. I personally believe that the owners' adherence to the "rules" can make a big difference.

Bear ate a measured amount of Science Diet W/D twice a day. He got his shot 1/2 hour after eating. If he didn't eat, he was given an incentive (he liked a sprinkle of garlic powder or a drizzle of very diluted gravy). If he still didn't eat, the amount of his insulin was cut in half. The only treats he was allowed was a small biscuit in the morning after the shot and a tiny carrot after his evening shot.

I hope your friend will get a second opinion if their vet does not prescribe insulin.

Please see the Dogs with Diabetes discussions on Ezboard at www.petdiabetes.org. The people there are very welcoming and helpful.