Tales from The Trenches

When did your journey with diabetes first begin?

Bailey was first diagnosed with diabetes in December 2024.

What were the first signs that something was wrong?

Bailey suddenly started gaining weight (I hadn’t changed her food at that stage) and she was crying at the fridge for food for about 2 years before she was diagnosed. She had so many tests but nothing conclusive. In December 2024 she started drinking heaps more. A visit to the vet confirmed diabetes. Unfortunately, they did not tell me she also had pancreatitis, so this went untreated.

How did you feel when you first received the diagnosis?

I was totally overwhelmed. I cried a lot to start with as I thought this was going to be the end for Bailey. She’s only 8 years.

What did you already know about diabetes at the time?

I didn't really know much about diabetes at the time.

What kind of information and support was offered to you in making decisions around diabetes management?

I was sent home for my first vet with very little information. I was told to give her insulin once a day and that there was no need to monitor her blood glucose levels. This didn’t feel right as Bailey’s levels were extremely high to start with, and I actually changed vets to someone who was more experienced with diabetes. When reviewing her bloods from previous vet, it was then I found out about the pancreatitis, which I did struggle to accept. I was extremely upset. I started testing her blood glucose twice a day before food and slowly I started to understand this disease and how to manage on diabetes on a day-to-day basis.

How did you make the decision to pursue treating Bailey’s diabetes versus euthanising?

For me I had to give Bailey a chance. She’s my best buddy and I had to try for her.

What were your main concerns?

That I would fail her, but the more I learned and the more I understood Baileys signals, the better I felt.

What has it been like settling into a routine?

It was hard to fall into a good routine at first, but now its second nature.

How long did it take to get settled?

It took several months and a change in insulin before Baileys levels became more stable. I found a support group on Facebook that has a lot of information and experienced owners. This and my new vet made me feel like I had a better understanding. Each time the vet advised to increase insulin I would do a curve (blood glucose tests every 2 hours for 12 hours) and email results to her so we could discuss any changes. I find it very important to have a good trusting relationship with your vet.

How does life with your dog now compare to pre-diagnosis?

Our life together is just the same in a lot of ways, we still walk the beach and explore new areas, but now I carry water, a packet of cat chicken food, and some kibble wherever I go. I like to be prepared just in case and, in the 10 months since diagnosis, I’ve used the food once when her blood glucose dropped very low - she started walking slower and became a little wobbly and was panting a lot.

How well did the reality of managing diabetes align with what you were expecting at the start?

To start with I thought we'd be housebound but this is not the case.

What was easier than you expected?

It was definitely hard to start with, but there is a wealth of information from a knowledgeable vet, other owners, Facebook groups, the internet, etc. It’s about finding your people that can support you.

What was more challenging than you expected?

I found it so hard to draw blood then inject insulin - I hated causing her pain but it was easier once I changed my mindset and realised what I’m doing is giving her the best possible chance in life. Once her blood glucose levels became more stable, I started to relax.

What have you learned that you would most like to share with other owners of newly diagnosed animals?

Find people you trust, plan ahead with food (I weigh all her food), and make sure you have supplies on hand - being prepared is the key. You know your dog the best so don’t be afraid to be their voice.

Any other tips, advice, or suggestions for diabetic dog owners?

I have a folder with all information about caring for Bailey - from her food, how to test BG and give insulin, what to do if her levels are too low or too high- everything I can think of to care for Bailey if I can’t be there. I have shown two friends how to test and give insulin which gives me peace of mind should I be delayed. It does get easier. Ten months later, I still have days of sorrow, but she warms my heart when I see her playing with doggy mates and totally enjoying her life.