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Resources

Some handy products, support groups, and services that have helped us with our diabetic dog.

Blood Glucose Testing

Ketone test strips

A quick way to check for ketones when blood glucose runs high. We use Ketostix® with Parker whenever his BG spikes—it helps us know if it’s just a routine high or something more serious that needs urgent attention.

https://www.amazon.com/...
AlphaTrak Monitor

A veterinary-recommended glucose meter designed specifically for pets. We use AlphaTRAK® with Parker every day, and it’s been very reliable for tracking his blood sugar—though it can be a bit more expensive than other options.

https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/alphatrak
PetTest Products

A complete at-home blood glucose testing system made specifically for pets. We use PetTest® products with Parker every day—they’re reliable, accurate, and designed with diabetic dogs in mind.

https://shoppettest.com/
Genteel Lancet

A gentle, vacuum-assisted lancet system that makes drawing blood less painful. We use the Genteel® device with Parker for glucose testing, and it’s made the process much easier and more comfortable for him.

https://shoppettest.com/genteel/?srsltid=AfmBOooObigzxzPBSyRI6aIsnrVyABLiPDmQWwZtjSrS9Lf6SRirNHJL
Hand Warmers

A simple tool that makes at-home glucose testing easier. We use them to gently warm Parker’s ear before using a lancet, which helps blood flow more freely and makes getting a sample less stressful.

https://www.amazon.com/...

Dog Sitters

Rover

Rover.com makes it easier to find trusted pet sitters who can care for dogs with special needs—including diabetes. We’ve even found a sitter through Rover who is comfortable giving insulin and handling Parker’s daily routine, which gives us real peace of mind when we have to be away.

https://www.rover.com/
Bland diet calculator

Created for dogs recovering from pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, or other digestive issues, this tool helps you calculate safe portions of protein, easily digested carbs, and vegetables while still supporting diabetes management. As always, check with your veterinarian before making dietary changes.

https://api.ucalc.pro/api/398352?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwL7pc8BHUbOsEwWNUMskVhdtwoCrg2OUJQzNpeYbQIYYdSRnceUpRKBHH8VlUbPrg
Homecooking calculator

This tool helps you work out the right balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates for each meal. It’s designed to support healthy meal planning for diabetic dogs, making day-to-day management a little simpler. Always confirm diet changes with your veterinarian.

https://api.ucalc.pro/api/330701

Insulin / Injections

Silicon Vial Case

This silicone case has saved Parker’s insulin more than once by protecting the vial from drops and bumps. It also makes it easy to tell bottles apart—like knowing which one is active and which is our older backup. Simple, durable, and highly recommended.

https://www.amazon.com/...
Caninsulin (Vetsulin)

An insulin made specifically for pets, available only by prescription. We used it with Parker in the beginning and it worked well, but it was expensive and harder to interpret because it contains more than one type of insulin with different activity profiles. Understanding the blood glucose curves took some adjustment.

https://www.caninsulin.com/
Humulin N / Novalin N

A human insulin (NPH) that also works well for managing canine diabetes. We use Humulin® N with Parker; in the U.S. it’s sold as Novolin® N and is available at many pharmacies and Walmart without a prescription. If considering a switch between insulins, it’s essential to do your research and consult your veterinarian before making any changes.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NPH_insulin

Supplements

Probiotics

We use Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora® – A veterinary probiotic supplement that supports digestive health and a balanced gut microbiome. We give Parker FortiFlora® daily, and it seems to help him bounce back quickly from gastro issues—plus his poops have been super consistent.

https://www.purina.ca/purina-pro-plan-veterinary-diets/supplements/fortiflora
Psyllium Husk Fibre

A natural source of soluble fiber that can help slow the absorption of carbohydrates, making it easier to manage blood glucose around mealtimes. We add psyllium husk to Parker’s meals to help better time his blood sugar levels. As with any supplement, check with your veterinarian before use.

https://www.amazon.com/...
Methyl B-12 Supplement

A highly absorbable form of vitamin B-12 that supports nerve health, brain function, digestion, and immune strength. It’s especially valuable for diabetic dogs, since B-12 helps protect the nervous system and may aid mobility. We give Parker methyl-B12 every day, and it seems to make a real difference in his leg strength. Always check with your veterinarian before starting supplements.

https://shoppettest.com/methyl-b-12-supplement-4-fl-oz
Ocu-GLO® Vision Supplement

A blend of antioxidants, including lutein, grape seed extract, and omega-3 fatty acids, formulated to support eye health in dogs and cats. We used Ocu-GLO® for a while when Parker was facing the onset of cataracts—it felt good to know we were doing something proactive for his eyes.

https://www.ocuglo.com/

Support Groups

Diabetic Dog Owners

Diabetic Dog Owners is a private Facebook support group where experienced owners and certified diabetes educators share guidance, tips, and encouragement for managing a dog’s diabetes at home. While we haven't used it as much as the Canine Diabetes Support and Information, it's still an active, helpful community.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/DiabeticDogOwners
Canine Diabetes Support and Information

A supportive private Facebook community where owners of diabetic dogs share experiences, tips, and encouragement. Moderated by experienced caregivers and AAHA Diabetes Educators, the group focuses on daily home blood monitoring and offers a safe, understanding space for learning and support. This site would not exist if it wasn't for the amazing people and resources in this Facebook group.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/545260468841556/

Travel Accessories

Insulin Travel Case

An insulated case with freeze packs designed to keep insulin at a safe temperature on the go. We’ve used a bag like this a few times—it’s handy and portable, though the packs don’t stay cold for long, and you have to be careful the insulin doesn’t freeze.

https://www.amazon.com/...
Mini Sharps Container

A compact, portable container for safely storing used needles and test strips. We keep one with us when traveling with Parker—it’s much handier than carrying a full sharps box, and re-usable enough to last multiple trips.

https://www.amazon.com/...
Mini Scale

A pocket-sized, high-precision scale (accurate to 0.01g) that we use to measure Parker’s food every night. It’s small enough to fit perfectly under his bowl, easy to read with the backlit display, and portable for travel. No complaints—it’s been reliable and convenient.

https://www.amazon.com/...
SugarMedical Diabetes Insulated Travel Bag

This bag has been amazingly well-suited for carrying everything Parker needs when we travel, from insulin to testing supplies. The seams have started to split with heavy use, but overall it’s been such a good fit for our needs that we’d buy it again—just hoping for a sturdier version next time.

https://sugarmedical.com/products/diabetes-insulated-travel-bag-jordan

Wearables

Diabetic Dog Tag

Parker’s had this ‘I am diabetic’ tag on his collar since the first month, and it’s still holding up great. It’s sturdy, easy to read, and gave us peace of mind knowing his condition and our contact info were always with him. We even included his meds and doses (though those have since changed). Highly recommend for any diabetic pet.

https://www.amazon.com/...