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Question

Is it worth treating diabetes, especially in an older dog?

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

It's natural to wonder whether treatment is fair on an older dog, but age on its own doesn't decide it. Ask your vet what can be treated, whether he's likely to feel better, and what daily care will involve for both of you. How much he still enjoys life matters, and so do your own limits. You don't have to decide everything while you're still in shock.

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What to know at home

You can love your dog and still be scared that treatment will make every day a struggle. Ask the vet to be honest about the work, the likely benefits and what nobody can know yet. You can also ask whether trying treatment for a while and then reviewing it is an option.

What to write down

  • Things your dog still enjoys
  • Pain, appetite, rest and movement
  • Care you can reliably provide and help you need

What to ask next

Ask what getting better would look like for your dog, and when you should look at it again together. If he can't be kept comfortable, ask about comfort care and end-of-life choices. Nobody should make you feel guilty for asking.

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Sources

Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.

Related

Q&A

How do I know when it's time to say goodbye?

This is one of the hardest questions you'll face, and no single reading or age can answer it for you.

Q&A

Can a diabetic dog still have a good quality of life?

Yes, most diabetic dogs can still enjoy life, and you'll judge that best by watching your own dog.

Q&A

What does palliative or comfort care look like for a diabetic dog?

When your dog is near the end, comfort care should still be planned with your vet.

Urgent help

Emergency or low blood sugar

Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.