Emergency treatment of hypoglycemia involves administration of glucose. Usually this is done by intravenous injection. Care should be taken when giving any substance by mouth to a dog that is seizing or unconscious as the substance may be inhaled into the lungs instead of being swallowed. Any underlying cause of the hypoglycemia should be corrected if possible. Surgery is recommended in many cases of insulinoma.
Medication is helpful in preventing low blood glucose in some patients.
Dietary management usually entails frequent small meals consisting of food that is high in protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates. Paradoxically, frequent administration of smple sugars may be counterproductive as this often stimulates insulin production. This lowers blood glucose and may precipitate a hypoglycemic episode. WB Thomas DVM Dipl. WB Thomas DVM Dipl.