Paper Trained
by Scott Sandeman, D.V.M
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Question
After 2 ½ years of giving insulin to Beau our 7 year old Welsh Terrier we have decided to try to check his blood sugar at home. We are going in next week to talk to our veterinarian that is really in favor of the idea. We have done OK checking urine but it doesn’t seem to match up very well with our office visits and their blood tests. Beau is pretty sweet about his injections but we aren’t sure we can get blood out of his ear whenever we want-any suggestions would be appreciated!
Answer
Kudos to you for your great management of Beau’s disease! While a few pets may resent the insulin injections, most don’t and some look forward to it –especially when it’s combined with a special treat.
Blood collection in dogs for glucose testing-only a very small drop is needed-can also be done at home with willing owners and the right patient. It may take a little practice but can ultimately provide reliable results with a minimum of work. Make sure you discuss the type of glucometer-we would only recommend the AlphaTRAK® veterinary meter-and don’t buy one before you talk to your veterinarian. It’s also necessary to decide if a spring loaded lancet or hand held lancet will best serve you for collecting the small amount of blood you will need.
Lastly, the location on your pet for collection the blood sample may depend on your comfort level and Beau’s tolerance for handling. Most dogs will give a good result and allow blood testing on the inside of the ear flap. In other patients-especially those that aren’t feet sensitive-a paw pad can be used. Some clinicians are especially found of using the pisiform pad –the small pad above the foot that doesn’t touch the ground. Other areas that are well tolerated are the elbow callus that many larger dogs have on their front legs or the skin on the top surface of the base of the tail.
Discuss these locations with your veterinarian to see what might work best for Beau and don’t forget the treat (low cal of course!) when Beau cooperates.