(SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS): South Texas Veterinary Ophthalmology (STVO) is offering five care tips to help avoid problems caused by diabetes this holiday season. With the new year upon us, it is important to approach veterinary care proactively and accurately.

“Our pets suffer from many illnesses that also affect humans such as diabetes,” says Dr. Danielle Boyd, DVM, MPH with STVO. “In the spirit of the new year, we celebrate the love of our animals by educating our community on how to be proactive in dealing with this serious disease.”

DR. BOYD’S TOP 5 DIABETES CARE TIPS FOR PET OWNERS:
1. Keep your animals active. Make sure your pets are receiving plenty of exercise and play time such as daily walks and visits to the park. A healthy exercise schedule can help keep your pet fit and may even reduce the chance of developing diabetes.

2. Keep your pets on a healthy diet. Find a food that has an appropriate level of protein and carbohydrates for your pet’s weight, age, and dietary needs. Keep a log of all food and treats that your pet receives throughout the day and review with your general veterinarian at his/her next wellness exam. Your general veterinary can also determine the best food supply for your pets if you are not sure.

3. Research your pet’s breed. Some breeds are at a higher risk factor of developing diabetes such as Poodles, Beagles, Golden Retrievers, and Daschunds (among others). Researching your pet’s breed will allow you to know the warning signs to look for and what predisposition your pet may have for getting diabetes.

4. Make regular recheck appointments with your pet’s veterinarian. Diabetic patients are prone to illnesses which may result in uncontrolled diabetes. Issues like loss of appetite, urinary tract infection, and skipping insulin doses can quickly lead to changes in your diabetic pet’s blood glucose. Keeping regularly scheduled appointments to monitor your pet’s blood and urine values can aid in early detection of certain diseases and help decrease complications.

5. If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. Studies show that 75% of dogs develop cataracts and secondary blindness in both eyes within nine months of being diagnosed with diabetes. A veterinary ophthalmologist can help discuss options for cataract surgery as well as initiate medical management for inflammation issued for the eyes caused by cataract development.

As the only board-certified veterinary ophthalmology practice in San Antonio and all of South Texas, STVO strives to build stronger relationships through education with its referral veterinarians and the pet community at-large.

For more information about STVO doctors and services, review quarterly e-blogs/articles or obtain details on upcoming continued education events, please visit www.STVOpets.com.