On presentation of a puppy with hypoglycaemia in the clinic , it is common practice to test their BG levels and provide treatment , then to check these levels again post-treatment , to ensure adequate correction , and then again every 2 – 4 hours for recurrence . As this is not possible at home for a breeder , how can they be absolutely sure this has corrected the problem ? Or even if this was the problem in the first place ?
When I asked my colleagues and the breeders about the breeder and veterinary surgeon ( VS ) relationship , all were united in their negative experiences . Breeders claim that in the majority of cases their VS disregards what they have to say and does not take them seriously as a knowledgeable , credible individual .
The majority of breeders will only breed from lines they are familiar with , in order to promote the breeding of “ normal ” healthy toy breeds . However , selective breeding ( usually from the runt ) to create desired characteristics ( the ‘ teacup ’), such as tiny heads and legs and bulbous eyes , have caused the veterinary profession to question the ethics of this selective approach .
What veterinary teams say
Having spoken to numerous VSs and veterinary nurses about the use of honey at home , it appears to be a common conception that breeders use products or techniques that have not been clinically proven to work . In an industry driven by research and clinical studies , the veterinary professionals I have spoken to feel that , although honey may not actually cause harm , it is unlikely to be necessary for proactive supplementation . However , in the event of an emergency , the general consensus is that the use of honey should be encouraged . The low risks involved with honey consumption ( Table 1 ) far outweigh the high risks involved with a hypoglycaemic crisis .
In human medicine , medical professionals provide glucose supplementation for neonatal hypoglycaemia in a hospital environment , so why do we not encourage this in an equivalent veterinary environment ?
Turner ( 2019 ) states that raw honey should not be fed to puppies , due to differences in the properties of ingredients . The honey bought from supermarkets is usually highly processed and retains very few natural nutrients and contains high amounts of sugars . As a result , it appears almost transparent . Raw honey is generally much thicker and yellower in colour . Raw honey keeps its natural vitamins , minerals and enzymes . Due to this enriched substance , Turner states that puppies will struggle to process such raw , potent ingredients because of their under-developed immune and digestive systems . Raw honey is also free from artificial sweeteners , preservatives and added sugars . When we look at this from an emergency perspective , in hypoglycaemia the fundamental element is the ability to provide an instant hit of sugar in times of crisis . Therefore , it does not matter which product is given as it is only for short-term use .
Summary
To obtain a balanced view , I began my research by asking my colleagues and reputable breeders about their experiences and views on juvenile hypoglycaemia . When progressing to peer-viewed literature , I found limited sources of information on the effect of honey on puppies under the age of 12 weeks .
The feedback I have received from various toy breeders suggests that honey has proven positive results when given both proactively and reactively at home . This anecdotal evidence would suggest that honey has its place in medicine , for uses other than allergies and wounds , and should be considered and encouraged when purchasing a puppy that is smaller than average .
I have also concluded that not enough is done in practice to help prevent cases of juvenile hypoglycaemia . By the time the puppy has come to us in the clinic , it is already very unwell . By educating toy-breed puppy owners , we could prevent , rather than having to react to , life-threatening related problems .
As these toy breeds appear to be getting smaller , should we , as veterinary professionals , be doing more to educate our clients ( and breeders ’ clients ) about the presentation and treatment of hypoglycaemia at home ?
Eddie was not a tiny puppy but I did offer small amounts of honey when he appeared overly fatigued from exercise and excitement . I saw only positive results and , as an owner , felt reassured that the symptoms I saw were a result of depleted energy levels and nothing more sinister .
My own experience and research have really opened my eyes . I will now be integrating new protocols in my clinic , at both the new puppy check ( first vaccine ) and at less routine presentations . I will endeavour to supply clients with tiny new puppies with additional information detailing the risks and signs of juvenile hypoglycaemia . I will also recommend honey or the use of dextrose gel supplied by the clinic .
Prevention is always better than cure and I feel that , as an RVN , I have a duty to prepare my new puppy clients with as much information as possible , to enable them to care for their dogs properly .
VOL 38 • July 2022
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