It can be stressful for both owner and pet when a dog with diabetes has to endure traditional blood sampling ( involving the retrieval of a blood sample, usually from the ear) to monitor glucose levels.
However, a device which continuously monitors glucose levels of diabetic humans is being used by Charles Wiedmeyer, Assistant Professor of Clinical Pathology in the Missouri University College of Veterinary Medicine to monitor the glucose levels of diabetic dogs and other animals such as cats, cows and horses.
A similar device is being offered to pet owners for use at home by the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the University of Georgia.
Comments
I think it's wonderful all the advances they have made in veterinary medicine! Great news!
Hello DerdiuMarriner - I am so glad that you enjoyed this article. yes - hopefully this advancement will be available soon...
KathleenDuffy, It's quite saddening to realize that diseases such as cancer and diabetes may show up in our brave pets. It's heartwarming, though, to know that medical advances are sought, not only for humans, but also for other creatures such as beloved pets. Cats, dogs, and mice have helped people so much as participants in medical experiments that it is a nice repayment for their unselfish, oftentimes painful service to have an advance such as this device be designed for them.
Thank you for spotlighting this helpful device which hopefully will be available for home use soon.
Hello VioletteRose - I'm glad you think its useful. Thanks for that! A lot of dogs these days are overweight, which doesn't help things. :)
I never knew about diabetics in dogs, this article is really helpful!
Hi Abby - Yes, it would be really helpful. It would save having to lance the dog's ear to retrieve the blood. They seem to be taking their time producing it for home use though. :)
I had no idea dogs could get diabetes. This looks like it would be a helpful device for dog owners.