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First Lightwith Sunny & Cooper
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Question

We're planning a long hike or a busy day out. What should I think about?

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

A long hike, a day of play or a trip to the hills can be lovely for a diabetic dog, but extra exercise can make his sugar drop. Talk to your vet before the day about food and insulin. Carry water, his low plan and the vet's number. If he gets weak, wobbly or confused, stop, follow the plan and call your vet now.

WhatsApp

I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.

What to know at home

Most vets say diabetic dogs do best with a similar amount of exercise at similar times each day, because sudden increases can cause a low. Heat makes it harder still. Build up slowly, rest in the shade, and keep the pace gentle.

What to write down

  • How long and how hard he exercised
  • Meal and injection times that day
  • How he seemed that evening and night

What to ask next

Ask your vet whether he needs anything different on an active day. Don't change his insulin yourself. Watch him closely that evening and night, because a low can show up later. Keep the clinic's number handy all day.

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Sources

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

Related

Q&A

How should walks work for a diabetic dog?

The same walk every day is best. A much harder day can drop his glucose, so ask first.

Q&A

My diabetic dog seems weak or wobbly after a walk

Stop. Call your vet or an emergency clinic now. If your vet gave you a written plan for a low, follow it.

Q&A

Can I travel with a diabetic dog?

Talk to your vet before a long trip. Pack the written plan, his usual food and the clinic's number.

Urgent help

Emergency or low blood sugar

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