Diabetes + a Fear of Needles
Nov 09, 2021
As Journey was going through a long, difficult treatment for heartworm, she was also diagnosed with diabetes. On top of all that, we soon found out that Journey had a severe fear of needles. So, in addition to not feeling well, this poor pup was dealing with a ton of stress and anxiety.
Thankfully, Journey had the support of our Medical Center team and dedicated foster mom Amy Elliot-Meisel to help work through her fears, figure out her insulin medication, and stabilize her glucose levels.
Technology has also been instrumental to Journey’s recovery. Recently incorporated into our treatment plans for diabetics is a continuous glucose monitoring device called Free Libre.
“It has been EXTREMELY helpful with Journey as she has some anxiety issues and a legitimate fear of needles. We were able to attach it to her skin and it gave us constant readings 24 hours a day for 14 days. This is the same reader that is used in human medicine. We used it primarily during the early stages of her disease when it is critical to monitor how she responded to her new insulin carefully,” said Dr. Kathryn Heigel, PAWS Senior Vet of Shelter Medicine
The wireless Free Libre device allowed PAWS staff to remotely monitor Journey’s insulin levels even while she stayed with foster mom Amy. However, there were still more challenges to overcome.
“The first few days with Journey were really tough. She had an intense fear of needles, which, as a diabetic dog, makes insulin shots difficult. She was also very scared of her new environment and not sure if she could trust me. We slowly bonded over chicken and walks as she learned this was a safe space,” said Amy.
Managing Journey’s diagnosis has been a process.
“She’s on a variety of medications and twice daily insulin shots. I’ve worked really closely with the amazing PAWS vets to help regulate her diabetes and get her feeling better. Working through her fear of needles and her special prescription food has been a big challenge, but she’s made so much progress. I couldn’t be prouder of her, she’s improving daily! The good days make all hard days worth it,” said Amy.
Now that she’s starting to feel better, Journey is beginning to enjoy just being a dog.
“My favorite moment with Journey was when she picked up a toy and played for the first time. I got her a little donut toy and she grabbed it immediately and started tossing it around the living room. It was the first time she was just a happy dog having fun with a toy. Now, she loves chewing her bones and destroying fluffy toys. She never eats the fluff but gets so much enjoyment in just tearing them to shreds. It’s so funny to watch!” said Amy.
Once Journey is fully stabilized, PAWS will help her find a loving family. Until then, Amy is playing a crucial role in her recovery. You too can change a life by opening your home to a foster pet.