Question
My dog is in hospital after diagnosis. What happens next?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
Before he comes home, ask for a written home plan. Ask someone to show you the routine with your own supplies. The plan should say what to do if he won't eat, starts vomiting or you're not sure he got his injection, and who to call at night. Book the next check-up before you leave.
What to know at home
Bringing him home can feel like relief and fear at the same time. Ask the vet to go through the everyday jobs, and separately, the signs that mean you should call or come back. Try to have everyone who'll look after him there to hear it.
What to write down
- Discharge summary and medicine list
- Food instructions and monitoring requests
- Next appointment and emergency contact
What to ask next
Ask what should get better at home, and what can't wait until the next check-up. If he won't eat or seems unwell once he's home, call the vet quickly. Don't try to copy what the hospital did yourself.
Sources
- Starting out with a diabetic dogThe first weeks at home
- How often does a diabetic dog need vet check-ups?Planning the next check-up
- How long does it take to get a dog regulated?How long settling in takes
- Do I feed my diabetic dog before the insulin?Feeding before the shot, and if he won't eat
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowSigns that need a vet now
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My puppy or young dog has diabetes. Is that different?
Yes, a young dog needs a plan made for his age and growth.
Guide
Starting out with a diabetic dog
From the diagnosis to a settled routine: what the tests mean, what to ask before you go home, how insulin and supplies work, and what the first weeks really look like.
Q&A
Does this mean my dog has diabetes?
Drinking more, peeing more and losing weight mean it's time to see a vet. Only the vet can tell you if it's diabetes.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.