Do's  and  Don'ts

            This is a list of do's and don'ts that I have found to be of importance
             in keeping your diabetic dog regulated.
 

Do's  Do's  Do's  Do's  Do's  Do's  Do's  Do's

            Join the Rainbow Pet Diabetes E-Mail list.   How to Join
            Read everything you can on diabetes.  Knowledge is a must.
            Ask your vet questions.
                How many diabetic patients does he have?
                How are his diabetic patients making out?
                What do you consider an emergency in a diabetic pet?
                Show me how to give an injection.
                What if my pet moves and does not receive his full injection. Queenie has done this.
                How much insulin do I give if he is sick?
                What if he vomits after I inject?  Queenie has done this before.
            Seek another opinion if in doubt.
            Ask why a medicine is being prescribed and what side-effects to expect.
            Spot-test any prescribed ointment or non-prescribed for allergic reaction.
            Know when your insulin peaks.
            Check new bottles of insulin for type, kind and expiration date.
            Always double check the units before injecting.
            Know the symptons of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
            Know where your glucose is(karo syrup or whatever you are using)
            Monitor urine output and water uptake.
            Always keep an extra bottle of insulin on hand.(This comes from Brenda)
                Brenda broke Cody's insulin on a holiday week-end making Cody's
                morning shot several hours late.
                This is especially important if you are using an insulin that is diluted
                like PZI or Caninsulin or a special order insulin that you can not buy
                at your local pharmacy.
            Be prepared to use a glucagon injection if you are keeping tight control.
            Check out  Frequently Asked Questions  on the Canine Diabetes Website.

Don'ts  Don'ts   Don'ts  Don'ts  Don'ts  Don'ts

  Do not   Be intimidated by your vet.  You hired him.
  Do not   Be afraid to ask why something is being injected or prescribed.
  Do not   Use cortisone creams, eyedrops or pills.
  Do not   Allow cortisone injections without being aware of glucose increase.
  Do not   Ever shake your bottle of insulin, roll it gently in your hands.
  Do not   Inject before making sure your pet will eat.
  Do not   Throw your used syringes in the garbage.

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