As explained by my vets office, Webster Groves Animal Hospital

Phone: 314-968-4310

Juvenile hypoglycemia is common in toy breeds and if left untreated can be fatal. It is typically seen in puppies 5 to 16 weeks of age. During this age range, puppies have a higher requirement for glocose and have not fully developed the ability to regulate their blood glucose concentration.

Causes of Hypoglycemia:

Insufficient muscle mass in tiny sized puppies make them even more predisposed to hypoglycemia.

Stress, such as moving to a new enviornment.

Low body temperature  ( normal 100.5 F -- 102.5 F)

Sudden change in food and water

Changes in established schedules (feeding, walking, playing, etc.)

Watch for one or more of the following:

      * Loss of   Appetite                                                                                  

           * Muscular twitiching

           * Extreme lethargy

           * Incoordination

           * Trembling 

           *  Weakness

           * Muscular twitching

           * SEIZURES

           * Apparent blindness

           * Dilated pupils

           * Stupor or coma

Preventing Problems:

 * Look in your puppy's mouth to see if there are teeth present. In particular, look for molars and premolars along the sides of the mouth. These  teeth are needed for chewing and may come in late. However, this will not stop your puppy from lapping up soft food.

* Be sure your puppy is eating well. Frequent feedings of high energy, protien - rich diet will help prevent hypoglycemia and help to overcome periods of decreased energy. Veterinarians offer properly balanced diets specifically designed for development and growth. Food labeled for Adult dogs should not be fed.

* Be sure the food you are using is soft enough that your puppy will reliably eat it. Adding a small amount of water to dry food can help soften it and make it easier to chew. Uneaten water - softened food should be discarded and not refed. Baby food can also be used as a soft, high calorie supplement when needed.

* What to do if you think your puppy is hypoglycemic:

Hypoglycemia can become an emergengy.

Typically, the puppy will be listless and even uncoordinated. In an extreme case, the puppy will become cold, will lose consciousness and begin to have seizures. For first aid, a small amount of Karo syrup can be rubbed on the gums. Swallowing is not necessary because it will be absorbed through the gums. Beyond this and especially if the puppy does not fully regain its normal playful attitude, the puppy should be rushed to an animal hospital for treatment. In the hospital the puppy will be warmed and the blood sugar level checked. If intravenous access is possible, dextrose(sugar solution) will be infused directly into the blood stream. Response is usually rapid once sugar is supplied and a dextrose IV- drip is started. The puppy has to reliably eat before he can go home. Anticipate the need for 24 hour care and expect a few days of hospitalization.

Webster Groves Animal Hospital hours:

Monday thru Saturday 6:00 AM -- 2:00 AM

Sunday 9:00 AM -- 2:00 AM

Holidays 9:00 AM -- 4:00 PM

24 HOUR NURSING CARE

314-968-4310