While they are cute, adorable and full of love, puppies can also be victims of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Low blood sugar can cause seizures, fatigue and disorientation in a young dog. Much like their human counterparts, puppies can fall victim to death if blood sugar drops low enough. It can even be worsened by some of the typical suggestions to contribute to a puppy's well-being such as exercise, regular meals and avoidance of sweets. With the proper steps, low blood sugar can be avoided, controlled and even possibly cured.
Step 1
Consult your veterinarian. Low blood sugar is a serious condition and could easily and quickly lead to more drastic situations with a small, young animal. A vet will be able to diagnose the level of hypoglycemia the puppy is dealing with and give him medication as well as recommend dietary changes.
Step 2
Have food and water available. Low blood sugar worsens with low levels of water and hunger. Give the animal dog food appropriate for its size, breed and age and avoid table food.
Step 3
Rub Karo syrup or honey on her gums if the puppy is appearing lethargic. Natural sweets can boost the puppy's low blood sugar quickly. If the dog is completely unresponsive or having seizures, do not give the dog anything as she could choke.
Step 4
Regulate his play area. A puppy's play area should be about playpen size rather than an entire yard or house to run through. Exercise and physical exertion can exacerbate the puppy's low blood sugar causing him to tire, suffer from fatigue and spike his hypoglycemia. Giving him a smaller area for activity will regulate his exertion.
Step 5
Apply insulin regularly. If the vet prescribes insulin for the puppy, be sure to apply it as directed and without interruption. Once the puppy begins insulin therapy, breaking the rhythm of the doses could cause a relapse. Keeping doses regular and on time should manage, if not cure, the hypoglycemia.
Warnings
Be aware of loss of consciousness and seizures.
Tips
Consider regular use of vitamins and nutrients (like Nutri-Call.) Vitamins and nutrients work to boost the puppy's blood sugar and keep the levels at stable levels.
Items You Will Need
- Puppy food
- Water
- Kayo sugar
- Honey
- Puppy size playpen