Cindys Puppies

Hypoglycemia

 Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, low blood sugar, is a disorder that occurs mainly in small breed puppies between six and twelve weeks of age. It is often precipitated by stress and can occur without warning (if the puppy is susceptible). It might appear after the puppy misses a meal, chills, becomes exhausted from playing, or has a digestive upset. These upsets place an added strain on its energy reserves and bring on the symptoms.

Hypoglycemia is a real threat to these tiny puppies, watch for your puppy to become tired or droopy. The first signs are those of listlessness and depression. They are followed by muscular weakness, tremors, and later convulsions, coma and even death. The puppy may appear depressed or may be weak, wobbly and jerky, or the puppy may be found in a coma.

If your puppy has any symptoms of hypoglycemia you must act fast. If the puppy is awake, give it Nutrical or Karo syrup by mouth. You should see signs of improvement in thirty minutes. If no improvement, then call your veterinarian. If the puppy is unconscious it should be taken to the veterinarian at once.

Prevent Hypoglycemia from happening by allowing only twenty minutes of play at a time, followed by rest or sleep. Do not allow the puppy to overtire at first. Supervise closely with children to make sure puppy is getting enough rest. Keep puppy warm, don't let it become chilled. Your puppy is a house dog and should not be living outdoors.

Prevent attacks by feeding a high quality kibble diet. We use and recommend Eukanuba puppy food. See that puppy eats at least every six to eight hours. More often if he is very small. Keep dry food and water available at all times. You can give 1/2 teaspoon of Nutrical or Karo syrup morning and night for the first couple of days to help prevent the low blood sugar that can come with the excitement and stress of going to a new home.