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Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a medical term referring to a pathologic state produced by a lower than normal level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. The term hypoglycemia literally means "under-sweet blood". Hypoglycemia can produce a variety of symptoms and effects but the principal problems arise from an inadequate supply of glucose as fuel to the brain, resulting in impairment of function (neuroglycopenia). Derangements of function can range from vaguely "feeling bad" to coma and (rarely) permanent brain damage or death.
Signs of Hypoglycemia
Remember, stress is the #1 cause of hypoglycemia. Help your puppy feel safe and secure. Don't expose new puppies to stressful situations or unfamiliar people. Let them adjust and try to make them feel at ease.
Be Prepared Always have Nutri-Cal, corn syrup or sugar available. Nutri-Cal comes in a plastic bottle and is travel ready. Corn syrup works well because it is a very pure sugar and is a liquid. Karo syrup, honey or sugar dissolved in water will also work. Wherever your pet is, there should be an emergency supply of sugar readily available. You should carry sugar with you when you travel with your pet.
How to Carry a Sugar Supply Carry in purse, doggie pack, car or pocket Packets of honey A tube of cake deco gel A syringe (w/o needle) filled with corn syrup or Nutri-Cal
In an emergency you don't want to be searching for sugar!
Treating Hypoglycemia During a hypo attack, your primary goals are to remain calm, bring the animal's glucose back to a safe level and continue to observe your pet and contact your vet if symptoms do not improve. If your pet is acting strangely, you should assume it is due to hypoglycemia and treat accordingly. This is a situation where it is better to be safe than sorry. Ask your vet for additional information for your specific pet.
Mild Hypoglycemia If your pet is showing mild signs, then feeding your pet some of its regular food should help. If they refuse to eat, offer Nutri-Cal or sugar. Observe your pet for several hours to make sure the animal has overcome the episode.
Moderate Hypoglycemia Nutri-Cal or corn syrup should be given, either alone or with food. Observe your pet over the next several hours and administering additional doses of sugar as needed. Be certain to contact your vet if the animal's condition does not improve or appears to be getting worse.
Severe Hypoglycemia If your pet is severely hypoglycemic, especially if it is having seizures, you must give the animal corn syrup or Nutri-Cal immediately. Carefully rub a small amount of Nutri-Cal or corn syrup on your pet's cheeks and gums. Do not pour the liquid into the animal's mouth as this may cause choking. Also, watch your fingers as the animal may become scared and bite. Call your vet immediately!
PomSource has provided this information to assist owners of new puppies, but does not warranty or otherwise guarantee in any way costs or losses resulting from the effects of Hypoglycemia or any other stress related illnesses on new puppies purchased from PomSource.
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