I wanted to share this note I received with all of my pet loving friends. I just got this letter from a gentleman whose dog was not only sickened from eating tainted dog food involved in the Menu Pet Food recall, but now is faced with the Vetsulin issue. After eating the tainted Menu dog food, Pierre, a 14 year old Golden Retriever was diagnosed with Diabetes. Now Pierre is suffering with blood sugar problems. His vet not only refused to write him a prescription for NPH insulin at the pharmacy but also said he was not able to issue him a refund for the tainted Vetsulin. Pierre had a blood sugar curve run 30 days ago, yet his vet said he would need to run another blood sugar curve before he would consider writing him a prescription for NPH insulin. Needless-to-say, he has yet to be reimbursed from Menu foods and now is again forced to shell out even more hard earned dollars to deal with Pierre’s blood sugar and Vetsulin issues.
Dear Dr. Carol,
“Just thought I would let you know whats going on since you were kind enough to discuss this with me, and maybe you can pass this note along. I just received a call from a technician at Intervet/Schering-Plough following up on my report to them 11/16/2009. She tried to say that the whole Vetsulin recall is routine. She said that the FDA sends out alerts whenever drugs are involved and that Pierre’s low blood sugar readings are to be expected and are not unusual. She also said this was clearly indicated on the Vetsulin insert.
The technician went on to say that in order for me to receive a refund for the Vetsulin, I would need to take it back to my vet, who then should contact her and make pickup arrangements. She said I should have them fax the purchase invoice to them for a refund. As for the additional cost I paid for the blood sugar curve run on 11/17/2009, they want me to fax the invoice to them as well.
She went on to say that Intervet/Schering-Plough will be evaluating diabetic dogs with Vetsulin issues, on a case by case basis, which to me means on the persistence of the pet owner. They are obviously still trying not to admit that anything was wrong with their Vetsulin product, when the FDA recall alert clearly states that they are not able to verify that each batch of their insulin product is stable. Thanks again for all your help.”
My dog has been on vetsulin for a year. Each time i open a new bottle, I monitor his BGs to make sure that his curve is normal. I’ve had no issues to date.
Dear Dr. Carol,
My dog Pasha acquired diabetes through an adverse reaction to the parvo vaccine. He had an immediate reaction that almost resulted in his death. After surviving this his pancreas was permanently damaged resulting in juvenile diabetes. I had no financial recourse because the FDA does not regulate pet vaccines. There is no chain of accountability. My only option was to sue the vet who administered the vaccine. He was not the responsible party.
Now we have the Vetsulin issue. I began to notice inconsistencies after the packaging changed on the product. Reactions occurred when a new vial was opened or at the end of a vial. This was not due to human error. Pasha has suffered severe hypoglycemic episodes and is lucky to be alive. I reported these incidents and was assured there was nothing wrong with the product and that no similar reports had been made(specifically concerning the differences by the way in the vials).
I recently switched to a human insulin and now dose twice daily instead of the previous once daily dosage with Vetsulin. Even though the FDA has recalled this product it is still available for purchase. How can that be?
I WISH I could turn back the clock and relive the last 7 months. I started giving my cat Vetsulin in June.
My cat is now dead.
I have NO IDEA what killed her, but I am NOT happy about this recall.
However, let me clarify, my cat had to be put to sleep because of her RAPIDLY deteriorating condition.
She lost her fur, her stomach was bloated, and she sat by the water dish 24/7.
She became a terrible sight … very painful to watch her deteriorate like this.
Was it Cushing’s Disease … or was it the Vetsulin?
I STILL have no answers!
I have a 5 year old Miniature Schnausser that recently developed diabetes. We had first used Humulin N and the doctor switched us to Vetsulin after a short time. Recently while not changing her diet and having and extra excercise, she has been showing signs that had us first take to the vet. Constant long urination, drinking alot of water and sometimes acidents in the home. The vet had me increase her insulin and said he was just trying to regulate it. This only started with the last 2 vials I purchased from him. How can the FDA recall it and then say you can still use this? I am in the pharmaceutical field and if there is an FDA recall down to the consumer level, everything has to go back and it is not to be used. Is it because it is a dog that they are not strenuously prohibiting the use of vetsulin or has Schering Plough convinced them…it is only an animal! My dog is my child and I would want her treated as such!
Hi Thomas
I completely agree with you and am personally having trouble figuring out why this Vetsulin issue is still not being properly resolved.
If I can help please let me know
Dr Carol
Thomas:
Go the the search bar of this website and type “NPH” to read my other posts.
Frankly, you’re lucky your dog is still alive.
The Vetsulin probably would’ve killed him.
My dog was diagnosed with diabetes in July ofthis year.
We have had our ups and downs.Mainly when he was caught inthe catfood.
But I monitor his blood sugars by using a glucometer.Max willlet me know when his glucose levels are low by his behavior.
I am a nurse and have research to ensure of issues with diabetes so I have plundered through this.
Dr. Osborne,
I just wanted to update you on my dog Molly. I had to put her to sleep Friday, December 11, 2009 because of her Hermangiosarcoma. What a terrible disease. She was such a great companion.
Dear Michael
I want to express my sympathy and understanding to you.
I am truly sorry. Words can not express my true feelings, you are in my thoughts and prayers
God Bless
Dr Carol
My cat has done extremely well on Vetsulin for the past 5+ years and I am actually really taken back that this recall is even happening and that I am being told that I have to change up her program after her diabetes being stabilized for this many years.
Staci,
You and your cat are LUCKY.
I’d suggest you do as your vet has advised, before you end up with a DEAD cat.
Dr. Carol,
How long has the instability of the Vetsulin been known? Our vet just informed us of the Vetsulin “alert” last week and that they are discontinuing Vetsulin in their practice. We will have to switch our dog, Diamond, to NPH and start all over with the weekly blood glucose checks. Diamond is 7 and was diagnosed with diabetes in July 2009. It took a long time to get her regulated and was a costly transition. It really upsets us that we have to start all over again, but even more importantly that Diamond has to endure the symptoms of excessive thirst, excessive urination, and accidents on the floor during her regulation transition period. When she was first diagnosed, I asked the vet if they use human insulin on dogs and I was told no, they use insulin specifically made for pets called Vetsulin. Now I’m being told that we have to switch to NPH human insulin. What is the difference? I have to admit that the Vetsulin was not reliable. There were quite a few times we had to purchase additional vials because the product was ineffective within 7 to 10 days based on our dog’s symptoms. Is it a “recall” or an “alert” on Vetsulin? Will you explain the difference in the two? Is the manufacturer of the product taking any responsibility for the ineffective vials that had to be repurchased within 7 to 10 days if we provide proof of purchase? Do you know if the manufacturer is taking any responsibility at all, such as willingness to cover blood sure check expenses during the NPH regulation period because they have a defective product? I hope the NPH is reliable and that Diamond transitions to it without other harmful side effects.
Dear Karen
I feel badly for you and am sorry you and Diamond are having to deal with this.
The NPH insulin works well and is reliable. There are several varieties of DNA based insulin available at a lesser cost at most pharmacies.
Your vet should refund all your money for the recalled Vetsulin and he will be reimbursed by Intervet/Schering-Plough, the manufacturer.
The Vetsulin is not DNA based but instead is made from pigs, porcine based, and is no longer used in people at all.
Regarding your expenses for switching over to stable insulin, that is something you will need to work out with your vet.
Apparently Intervet/Schering-Plough is taking this on a “case by case” basis as far as reimbursement for additional expenses incurred by diabetic pet owners, affected by the Vetsulin recall. You can contact Intervet/Schering-Plough directly regarding your specific questions, and see what they have to say.
I am glad to help and am available toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Good Luck
Dr Carol
What I find sad about these posts is, owners seem to not realize their pets are victims of Schering’s Plough’s greed. Excessive urination, thirst, and “accidents” in the house are side-affect of Vetsulin. It’s not the animal.
It’s the Vetsulin.
After my cat started taking Vetsulin, she’d sit at the water dish for hours, and have “accidents” in the house.
These behaviors were all as a result of injecting her with the poisonous Vetsulin.
It’s too bad Americans have become so trusting and docile. We allow our beloved pets to be abused by drug companies and yet, we do nothing about it.
It’s sickening. What has happened to our “fighting spirit”.
Ten years ago, no one would ever accept this.
Schering Plough would’ve been sued.
And they should be!
Dear Karen
There is a Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit that was just filed in Toledo Ohio on 12-26-09
Dr Carol
I added my comments on the blog related to the class action lawsuit where another pet lover lost their dog due to kidney failure from Vetsulin. We all need to share our horror stories in support of the lawsuit. Thank you, Dr. Carol, for informing us of it. I wasn’t sure.if I could share the website on your blog or not. Please let me know of your preference.
Hi Karen
What web site would you like to share?
Dr Carol
Can someone tell me how I can become a part of the class action lawsuit in regard to Vetsulin. She has been taking it since 11/16/2009 as soon as she was diagnosed with diabetes and as of 12/25 she has GONE BLIND!I have been told by my vet that there “may” be a problem with the Vetsulin and to watch her carefully. I have had her to the vet several times for glucose tests and her blood sugar kept going up and I was told to keep increasing her dosage. After 23 units twice daily she suddenly went completely blind and I was told she will never see again all from having faith in my Vet and literally injecting her with POISON. She now is on Humulin. I am beside myself as it is horrible to watch her bang into things and fall into the swimming pool. I am sick about it!
Please can someone tell me how to get involved in the lawsuit. I know this will not bring back her eyesight but I want everyone to know never to give their pets this horrible drug.
I am sitting here in stunned silence. I can hardly breathe, let alone think clearly. Today I found out about the Vetsulin recall. My Chug, Jonny, 11 years old, has had diabetes for 5 years. The first 2 years of his diabetic life went amazingly well. He was on a Lentil insulin back then. He was switched over to Vetsulin when the Lentil went out of production. From day one, using Vetsulin has been nothing short of a living nightmare. In the three years since Jonny has been on Vetsulin, despite all my efforts and diligence, I have been unable to get Jonny’s diabetes under control. I test his blood glucose levels myself, I make his own food,and I keep him on a strict regular schedule. It seems nothing I do makes any difference. His blood sugars are all over the place. And worse, he continues to have frequent medical episodes which requires hospitalization. It just never made sense to me. I would complained that I felt it was the shitty Vetsulin but I couldn’t get any veterinarian to agree with me and I was told it was the only insulin available for dogs. I found myself leaving one veterinarian after another because after each crisis Jonny had, although my gut told me it was the Vetsulin, I blamed the vet. I have seen over 30 doctors in and around the Sacramento area desperately searching for the one veterinarian who could help me get Jonny’s diabetes under control. Meanwhile, we have spent thousand and thousands of dollars and still counting.
This weekend Jonny started getting sick again. He became listless and lethargic. He stopped eating completely. He wouldn’t get out of bed unless it was to throw up. First thing Monday morning I took him in and the vet immediately referred us to an Internal Medicine Specialist. That afternoon Jonny was under going an ultrasound. He also had a full blood panel/lab work done. When the results come back, there were no answers to explain why he was so sick. We go home and Jonny continues to throw up and still refuses to eat. His blood sugar plummets to a dangerous 55. He is so sick. I take him back today begging for answers. He is very dehydrated and is given fluids. They do another re-check ultrasound with the same results . . .nothing. As we are discussing our “options” I hear for the first time in my life about this Vetsulin recall. WHAT!!!!!????? A Vetsulin recall??? My jaw fell to the ground. Shock just doesn’t seem to fit . . . maybe total OUTRAGE? I just knew it! Why didn’t I listen to my gut? I am beside myself with grief, guilt and mostly anger. This letter could be 3 pages longer if I listed all the medical crises we have been through that I now feel certain was due to the Vetsulin! This is a horrible and unbelievable nightmare.
Now this specialist is sure Jonny’s current medical condition has nothing to do with the Vetsulin. He insist that it is NOT a symptom of the problems associated with the Vetsulin recall. But I don’t believe a word he says now. I don’t know what and who to believe anymore. How can I be sure it isn’t Vetsulin related? Especially because that is what every doctor told me whenever Jonny got so sick . . . “No, no, it isn’t the Vetsulin.” Now I know that was a lie. I feel so violated and my trust level for any veterinarian is at an all time low.
I immediately insisted on switching to a new insulin but what about the physical damage Vetsulin has already caused not only to Jonny but to all diabetic dogs and cats? My only solace is that I am so very lucky Jonny is still alive and has managed, so far, to survive this horrific assault to his body. My heart aches for all those others who were not as fortunate.
Questions . . . Why did I just find out? Why was there no public notice given? What can be done? Who do we complain to? Who will be prosecuted? Why and how could this happen?
Dear Linda
The problems your dog is having is due to the Vetsulin.
You need to stop the Vetsulin NOW, ask your vet refund your money and write you a prescription
for DAN based insulin available at nearly any pharmacy and at a lesser cost.
To speak to the attorney handling the class action law suit call 419 255 5990.
If I can help you with this in any way please call toll free 866-372-2765.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
how do i leave a comment about my dog vetsulin issue?
Hi Aimee,
Your comment is posted and you are welcome to add further comments.
Happy New Year
Dr Carol
You need to type Vetsulin in the “search” bar and read our HORROR stories. It will make you SICK!
CLASS ACTION SUIT.
CALL 1-419 255-5990.
Vetsulin has KILLED and BLINDED many pets.
Linda,
Sadly, Schering-Plough used us … to murder our own pets.
My cat had s-l-o-w, MORBID death.
And what’s worse is my vet was STILL prescribing Vetsulin.
She DENIED anything was wrong with.
I wrote her a letter and she did not respond.
She never returned my phone calls.
There’s only ONE thing you can do …
Call this lawyer and FOR THE GOOD OF OTHER VICTIMS, participate in the class action.
1-419 255-5990.
We Are truly sickened by this Vetsulin we have insisted with our vet this was not working and making our dog sicker not better she has gone blind still drinks a lot, urinates frequently, and is very uncomfortable. we trusted out vet even went to other vets for opinions where can we go now. Our vet called and wants to put her on NPH due to there was a recall on Vetsulin but nothing to worry about. we wanted to try this six months ago and she insisted this Vetsulin was the best for her. Here we are helping to kill our on dog she is our baby we have spent a lot of money trying to get her healthy then when she went blind the vet says it will cost 4500.00 to fix her eyesight but don’t look at it as a death sentence dogs live a fairly normal life blind.Please let us know what to do know.
Dear Cheryl,
I am very very sorry for you and glad to help.
You might want to consider joining the Class Action Law Suit: if you do call 1-419-255-5990.
Please feel free to call me toll free at 1-866-372-2765 and we can discuss your dog
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Not sure what is going on with the Vetsulin recall…My 12 year old chocolate lab has been on it (blue box) for almost 2 years. He seems fine right now… If there is an issue what do you recommend that I do.
Dear Herb
You have been very lucky so far however the Vetsulin is not stable or reliable. You might want to consider switching to DNA based insulin
BEFORE your dog has a problem with his blood sugar regulation and suffers the consequences.
Dr Carol
My son, my love, my life, my Jonny is dead. Nobody would help him. Jonny died the same day I wrote my first comment. He died on New Year’s Eve.
I will write more later when I am able.
Dear Linda
I want to express my sympathy and understanding to you for Jonny.
This is a true travesty and should not have happened and is inexcusable in my opinion.
If I can help you in any way please let me know.
God Bless
Dr Carol
To Cheryl Brazee:
re: your comment:
“but don’t look at it as a death sentence dogs live a fairly normal life blind.”
===========================================================
Hmmmm … ?
Now that’s interesting.
I wonder if that’s how Schering-Plough felt when they distributed their POISON to unknowing pet owners.
I would like to share the awful and heart-wrenching effects that my cat has recently battled as a result of this “out of specification” Vetsulin. My cat was diagnosed Diabetic early November and was put on Vetsulin. In less than 2 weeks (and the night before Thanksgiving) my cat began having seizures shortly after administering the Vetsulin.
We rushed him to a local Emergency Veterinary Clinic as we were visiting family out of town. After another episode of the seizures the following morning (again shortly after administering the Vetsulin) where he spent the next 4 days in ICU. It was at this time that I learned of the Vetsulin “alert”… unfortunately, it was too late (and it is more appalling that a potentially harmful life-threatening situation such as this was not immediately and responsibly addressed to the public by the manufacturer!).
Upon returning back home, he was again rushed to an on-call vet due to more seizures, lethargy, and episodes of crying out that melted my heart. I was told that his kidneys were going into failure and that I seriously think about my options and this would most likely be an ongoing battle. It is over a month later and my cat continues to suffer as a result of corporate irresponsibility.
He continues to be under the watch of the vet; his kidneys have been effected, his heart, depression, lack of energy, possible neurological deficit’s as a result of the “out of specification” product and resulting seizures, not to mention the toll it has taken on HIM… to compare how he was immediately before the Vetsulin to now (and all that he has been through as a result) just breaks my heart (but I am continuing to fight to save him so long as he has the strength to do so) and has taken a significant financial toll.
Of note, about 2 weeks ago, his regular vet did call the manufacturer to report my cat’s case and was told that their product was safe and that they were unaware of any problems as a result of this “alert”!! Ridiculous and out right disregard for the effect of THEIR “out of specification” product on these defenseless animals!
I am his advocate in this mess and will not rest until the manufacturer accepts responsibility for their batched product and the senseless toll it has taken on these unsuspecting pets (and well as their owners) not withstanding the unfortunate loss of life!
Dear Teresa,
I am very sorry your cat has suffered because of this Vetsulin and you deserve full compensation and much more.
If I can help in any way, my veterinary office phone is toll free at 866-372-2765
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Teresa:
Please participate in the class action suit … FOR THE SAKE OF THE ANIMALS.
We are the only voice they have.
1-419 255-5990
Thank you Dr. Carol and Karen for your thoughts. It sickens me to think that they are attempting to “turn the other cheek” to such devistation. My “reality check” comes each and everyday that I bring him to work with me because I am afraid to leave him or when I have to hook him up to an IV to administer fluids in an effort to keep him going.
My dog Cami had diabetes and was taking vetsulin for the last 9 months. In December her vet raised Cami’s dosage from 40 units every A.M. once a day to 30 units A.M. and 30 units P.M. A few weeks later she had severe seizures on new years day. At an animal hospital they told me her temp. was 104 degrees, blood sugar was 33 and seizures continued. The hospital wanted to keep her for several days to do more tests at a cost of over three thousand dollars. Cami stayed overnight and in the morning the doctor called saying Cami had not responded to well to the care they had provided. I could not let her suffer and I could not afford the cost. I painfully decided to have her euthanized. I wonder if this had to happen? Could the vetsulin have caused this? I just wish I still had Cami…
Dear Kevin
I am so sorry and want to express my sympathy and understanding to you for this needless travesty.
Yes the Vetsulin caused this and no it did not have to happen.
There is a C lass Action law suit you may consider joining-call 419-255 5990
If I can help you in any way please let me know.
God Bless
Dr Carol
Hello, we have an 11 year old Dachshund named Tyler. He was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease and Diabetes last year. He was put on Trilostane for the Cushings and Vetsulin for Diabetes. He continued to have problems with excessive thirst, urination and vomiting. He has now gone blind.
It is pathetic to see him like this. He is constantly hungry and begging for food. They have increased his Vetsulin dose to 8 units twice a day and he still is having issues. We have spent thousands of dollars in blood curves, medications, vetsulin, etc. only to see him deteriorate.
I called his vet today when I had a hard time finding the Vetsulin online. I did not know why it was back ordered and was told not to change him to human insulin since he was so hard to regulate. No mention of the Vetsulin issue and they blamed it on the ability of the online vets to get Vetsulin since it was in short supply.
I am outraged they never mentioned the letter they received or the issues it could have caused Tyler. I am definitely going to join the class action lawsuit and set up an appointment to switch him over. The company should be held responsible immediately!!
Dear Ellen
You are correct about the Vetsulin and wise to stop the Vetsulin ASAP and switch to NPH or Humulin today.
If I can help please let me know
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Kevin:
Re:
“Could the vetsulin have caused this?”
Kevin:
Go to the search bar of this website, and type in “NPH”.
Click the NPH tag.
Read our stories, and you’ll get your answer.
Ellen:
Do you want to know what happened to your dog?
Go to the search bar of this website.
Type in “NPH”
Click the NPH url and read our stories.
You will then know how your dog died.
Dr. Osborne:
It is with gratefulness that I have found your website; the information I have read lets me know I am not alone with my dear Australian Shepherd/Husky, Shadow. At the same time I am terribly upset to find out that the suffering my dog has gone through since November 2007 is most likely a result of having been prescribed Vetsulin for diabetes.
We have been through seizures which almost took her life, with the vet we were originally seeing insisting he had prescribed the correct amount of Vetsulin. When she went into the hospital, her blood sugar was 20 – I believe she lived by the grace of God. This episode resulted in 3 days and night’s stay in emergency care. Having changed vets shortly after that happened, I was told that they didn’t use Vetsulin but would continue it for Shadow since she had been started on it. For the last 2 years her blood sugar has been regularly checked; her feeding and insulin administration is very regular with her on a strict diet. In spite of this the diabetes has never been under control.
Unlike others who have posted their pet’s stories, I wasn’t smart enough to even think the Vetsulin could have anything to do with this. Sugar levels have jumped up and down, she has bouts of lethargy, and what I call “dinginess” where she won’t leave my side. She has gone blind, doesn’t play anymore which I attribute to her being unable to see, bumps into furniture, and has difficulty getting in and out of the car. She constantly is sniffing around under the dining table and in the kitchen for something to eat and has developed a habit of eating paper. Whether that has anything to do with Vetsulin and diabetes, I don’t know; however, she never did it before she was diagnosed.
Today I went into the vet’s for a regular blood sugar check only to be told that Vetsulin had been recalled and they were switching her insulin. I only can hope and pray that the new insulin will allow Shadow to be more comfortable and maybe even a little happier. How can knowledge of this not have been made public sooner? Our animals deserve better consideration and treatment. I am glad to hear of the class action suit and hope the company manufacturing Vetsulin will be held responsible.
Dear Marjorie,
I am sorry your dog has suffered through all of this and am glad to help you.
Yes the problems your dog has had are due to the tainted Vetsulin and now that you have DNA based insulin your dog should begin to feel much better.
You should consider having a complete set of blood tests (CBC and Chemistry Profile) taken and sent out to and run at the lab, not in your vets office and get a urinalysis to determine the current status of your dog internally, especially the liver and kidneys. It is best to buy urine glucose test strips, available at Walgreen’s, and online at Amazon, called, Diastix.
Ask your vet teach you how to check your dogs urine sugar daily or twice daily depending on whether you give the insulin once or twice a day. This way you can tweek the insulin dosage daily according to the diastix reading and get your dog regulated as quickly as possible and prevent further damage. Unfortunately, it appears that certain vets just have diabetic pets come in once or twice a week to run blood glucose curves and fail to mention that patients can easily, accurately and economically regulate their pets insulin dosage and therefore blood sugar levels at home using urine.
Should you want to join the Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit call 1-419-255-5990. Yes Intervet/Schering-Plough is being held responsible and this should never have occurred in my opinion.
For diabetic pets suffering from Vetsulin, a natural, patented, dog vitamin-supplement, called PAAWS has been effectively helping many of these diabetic pets return to good health and recover from this insult, quite quickly. In addition, Paaws dog vitamins helps to promote stable blood sugar levels and boosts internal immunity. For diabetic dogs that are currently suffering from kidney failure issues as a result of the tainted Vetsulin, we also have a wonderful, natural, herbal kidney supplement, called quantum kidney essentials that has been effectively helping the kidneys return to their normal status within 30-60 days.
I hope this information is helpful to you and if I can help you with any of this, feel free to call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you,
Dr Carol
Dr. Carol
Thank you for your response and your suggestions. My next step was to learn how to check Shadow’s blood sugar at home. You have answered that question. I will also begin your suggested vitamin regime. My vet has told me to bring Shadow in for blood sugar check after she has been on new insulin for 3 weeks. I’m sensing from your message that it should/could be checked sooner.
I will also be joining the class action suit. I had told my daughter yesterday (before I found your site) that some one should start a class action suit!
Thank you again for your interest and reply.
Our seven year old snchauzer was placed on Vetsulin 2 yrs ago. We noticed in Mid November her Eyes were glazing over, our Vet looked at her and recommended a specialist. The specialist recommended surgery as soon as possible. She performed the eye surgery three days later. Reading these posts it appears we were lucky to catch here condition in time as Little Annie is doing fine.
Hi Scott
I am glad Annie is doing well and yes you are lucky. I hope you have also switched Annie over to DNA based insulin and stopped the Vetsulin
Thank you
Dr Carol
Scott:
I’m glad to hear your dog, Annie survived.
It’s nice of you to let Schering-Plough off the hook, and foot the bill yourself.
I’m sure Schering-Plough wishes most of us (victim’s owners) were as nice as you are.
Dr. Carol,
Are you aware of any other pets that are having continued neurological deficites (and seizures) from the “out of specification” Vetsulin? I posted my story on January 4, 2010 and since my cat has had (at least) 2 more seizures… it had been about 4 weeks since his last one (that I am aware of). I’m not sure if it is a possibility of there still being some crystalization in his system or this is going to be an ever-lasting effect of the internal damage the Vetsulin has done…? The vet has mentioned me taking him to the University of Florida for a brain scan, but I would rather not put him through that simply due to what he’s already been through and the everyday struggles as a result of being on the Vetsulin. I’ve particularly noticed that when he’s eating/drinking he’ll go into a “daze” for an extended period of time, resume eating/drinking, then go back into this daze. Something he NEVER did pre-Vetsulin (in addition to the seizures which he NEVER had).
He has been off of the Vetsulin for over a month now and is currently on Humulin which is what particularly leads me to think that this (the seizures and being dazed or disoridented) is a residual of the Vetsulin particularly since he had never had these issues prior to being on the Vetsulin.
Dear Teresa,
The dazed look on your cats face is a sign that your cat is still not regulated. It means the dose of Humulin is too high and the result is that your cats blood sugar level is too low. This is called hypo-glycemia.
Here is a copy of what signs to to look for in unregulated diabetic cats, according to the manufacturer:
“The use of any insulin when regulating a diabetic cat may be associated with side effects. The most common side effect reported in field studies was low blood sugar which is called hypoglycemia. This is usually mild (lethargy, weak, trembling, uncoordinated, groggy, dazed), but may be serious and life-threatening (seizures, coma”).
“If side effects occur, cat owners should contact their veterinarian immediately. Cats should be evaluated for pre-existing conditions and currently prescribed medications prior to treatment with PROZINC. Routine monitoring (blood parameters such as glucose and fructosamine and clinical signs) is essential to maintain a regulated cat.”
Never give your pet insulin when you see these signs as they mean your pets sugar level is already too low and giving more insulin would lower the blood sugar more leading to seizures, coma and eventually death.
“All insulin is contraindicated during episodes of hypoglycemia.”
Just so this is clear, this above information was taken directly from the package insert of Vetsulin, but is true in all diabetic dogs and cats, regardless of the type of insulin being used. It is also important to understand that PROZINC is another name for Vetsulin, which is pig based insulin not current DNA based insulin.
I hope this information is helpful.
Best Wishes
Dr. Carol
Teresa
How is he being regulated? Are you checking the urine twice a day and altering the insulin dosage daily according to the urine sugar reading? If not you need to, if you are and every day the urine sugar reads trace to plus one, which is your goal, then I would ask your vet to run a full set of blood tests, CBC and Chemistry Profile. Be sure to ask to have the blood sent out to the lab and not run in your vets office. Also get a urinalysis with a specific gravity. You can then make relevant decisions based on what those results reveal.
I am glad to help you.
The Vetsulin should not at this time be causing any current residual problems for your cat but other internal organ damage (liver and kidneys) may be responsible for the problems you have explained and are likely due to the damage incurred while on Vetsulin.
Thank you
Dr Carol
Teresa
If the blood reveals further internal organ damage that would be the “residual” effect from the Vetsulin.
Dr Carol
My dog Abby is a 15 year old poodle and has had diabetes for years. We have treated with Vetsulin. We started a new bottle a couple of weeks ago. Yesterday she had 3 seizures! Leading up to these seizures she had excessive drinking, sleeping more than usual. My vet once told me Abby was surprisingly easy to regulate in the past. He highly suspected it could be the Vetsulin! We have a new bottle and she has improved quite a bit. Is there anyway a bottle of Vetsulin can be tested to see if it is tainted?
Hi Cindy,
The Vetsulin is not stable and has been recalled. The excessive water drinking and seizures are signs of unregulated blood sugar which is because the Vetsulin is delivering a dose of insulin that is not appropriate.
I am glad Abby is feeling better with the new Vetsulin vial but can not predict how long she will remain that way.
I do not believe there is a way to check your Vetsulin vial but you can give it back to your vet for a refund. There is also a Class Action Law Suit and to join you would call 1-419-255-5990.
My recommendation is to consider talking to your vet, about whether or not you should keep her on the Vetsulin which is quite risky at this point or get a prescription for Humulin or NPH insulin at the drug store and switch over to stable DNA based insulin. Many pets have already died and others are still suffering from irreparable liver, kidney and eye sight damage.
I hope this information is helpful.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol.
Hi Dr. Carol … we have a 13 year old terrier (Ben) who has been stable on Vetsulin for 3 years. When he first came down with diabetes, his condition didn’t respond at all to Humulin … but he became and remained stable on Vetsulin. He’s now back on Humulin and is not doing well. Some of the postings referenced NPH … is that the same as Humulin? Are there any other options for dogs that do not respond well to human insulin products?
Doug
Hi Dr. Carol. After I posted to this site last night I went onto the Schering-Plough website. I sent an email and they responded to me promptly. I told them I wanted the vial of Vetsulin tested. They are going to get back to me. I’m not really interested in a refund at this point.
I just want want to know the truth. The manufacturer is sticking to their story that Vetsulin is stable. I asked it if the product is stable why are there so many web sites out there trashing them. She simply said she was not aware of any. I told her to go look! She was very kind and I hope the will be able to test the vial.
My vet is going to transition Abby next week. He is attending a seminar this weekend where vets will be discussing the best ways to transition dogs to other insulin products. Meanwhile, we are working on getting Abby a little more stable over the weekend. I am monitoring her blood closely and calling him as how to proceed two to three times a day.
My question now is; has Vetsulin always been unstable or is it recently they are having problems?
The girl for Schering-Plough and I spoke for a couple of hours. She said she had to report everything to the FDA. She said I could go to their web site and contact them too. FDA had an answering machining and will hopefully get back with me soon.
Finally, I wanted to let you know it has been my experience in a class action law suits the only person that wins are the attorneys. They take huge fees from a settlement and everyone gets something ridiculous like $1. Besides who cares about the money. No amount of money will ever replace our pets. Thank You for your time.
Dear Cynthia,
The Vetsulin recall announcement was make November 2, 2009. How long the Vetsulin was bad before they let us know I do not know. To the best of my knowledge it was fine prior to that despite the fact that it is outdated and pig based.
Today, insulin is no longer made from pigs it is made from DNA. My veterinary clinic and many others never carried it as it is less than optimal and no longer manufactured or used in people. DNA based insulin is less expensive, readily available at nearly any pharmacy and reliable.
Waiting until next week to switch your dog to stable DNA based insulin is very risky. Each day your pet is unregulated irreversible internal organ damage is occurring.
If I can help further please call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you,
Dr Carol
Hello. I just today learned that my 11 year old yellow lab, Harley, was diabetic. After an emergency visit to my vet today(for lethargy, difficulty breathing, constipation, and not eating which had begun slowly about 5 days ago) I was told that his blood sugar level was over 450. He was injected with one 20 unit dose of Vetsulin at the Drs. office, and I was instructed to give him a 20 unit dose twice a day.
After reading the posts here, I will be calling my vet first thing tomorrow to have him switched to a DNA based insulin.
THANK GOD for your site! Hopefully this will save me a lot of heartache. I feel so bad for the others whose stories I have read tonight. Thank you again!
Dear Br5end
I hope you have already started your dog on DNA based insulin and if I can help in any way, with regulation, monitoring and dosages and or diet please call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you
DR Carol
Also, can you suggest any diet plan for my Harley? I questioned my Vet and was told that since I normally fed him dry dog food, that we would first try to regulate his diabetes without a major change in diet. What do you suggest?
Hi Br5end,
Yes getting your dog regulated and keeping him on the same diet is wise. Once he is stable, I am glad to help you with a home-made diet.
Be sure you are not feeding Merrick as it was just recalled due to Salmonella bacterial contamination
Dr Carol
Our 5 year old black lab Abbe was diagnosed in March of 09 with diabetes and placed on Vetsulin-she has never had normal blood sugars and urine sticks were always the highest reading-she was on 25u of Vetsulin twice a day-she has gone almost completely blind in a matter of months and is scheduled to have cataract surgery in Feb.
Our vet switched her to Humulin-N after the recall and we had to check her urine 2 to 3 times a day to get her regulated-it took almost 2 weeks but we now have her stable and the amazing part is she only needs 12u of the Humulin-N twice a day. Except for her eyesight, she is fine. I contacted the Vetsulin company and the tech listened to my story and said she would give me a case number.
This past Monday, that tech called me with a case number, and told me to submit Abbe’s med records and any bills we wanted them to consider. I guess now we wait.
Dear Tracey
Yes that’s correct you will be waiting for a while so be very, very patient.
I am glad you successfully switched you dog over to Humulin and if I can be of further help please let us know.
Thank you
Dr Carol
Well, after speaking to the Vet’s Assistant today, she assured me that they’ve seen no problems and had no complaints on the Vetsulin to date. She said they have 15 or so dogs that have been on it for over a year without any problems.
I have always trusted my vet–really like him. She told me to use the Vetsulin for now and to just discuss my concerns with the Vet on Monday when I take Harley in for her 1st re-check.
Oh dear, What do I do? (Blood sugar was 220 tonight before vetsulin when I used a glucose meter to check it after pricking her ear-which she hated!)
Dear Brenda,
I can help you with your diabetic dog and am glad to talk with you.
You should get a refund for the tainted Vetsulin and ask your vet for a prescription for DNA based insulin. If you want to adjust sugar levels yourself at home without pricking his ear pick up urine test strips Diastix at the pharmacy, Walgreens carries them.
Switching pets over from Vetsulin to DNA based insulin is not hard and daily regulation using your pet’s urine and diastix will help you to regulate diabetic pets at home as quickly as possible. Generally pets should be regulated within a week of beginning their new insulin.
Diastix are urine glucose strips and are available at Walgreen’s. You simply match the color of your pets urine to the numeric value which corresponds to a color on the diastix and adjust the insulin dosage accordingly. This is vital to try to minimize further internal organ damage and preserve what if any vision is left, before cataracts occur. it is important to remember that your goal each day with the urine diastix is a reading of “trace.”
Each time you get a reading of “trace”, that means you are doing a great job and you just repeat the previous insulin dosage. If the diastix reads minus 1, reduce the insulin dose by 1 unit. If the diastix reads minus 2, decrease the dose by 2 units. If the diastix reads plus 2, increase the insulin dose 2 units, if the reading is plus one, increase the insulin dose one unit. It is important to remember that you NEVER, ever increase or decrease the insulin dosage by more than 2 units.
It is always a good idea, to keep a jar of honey or karo syrup handy just in case, after giving the insulin your pet looks dazed or gets wobbly. This is a sign that the insulin dose was too high and as a result your pets blood sugar is too low. We call low blood sugar, hypoglycemia. If this occurs, just rub a teaspoon of the honey or karo syrup directly into your pets gums. It is immediately absorbed through the gums and enters the blood. This raises your pets blood sugar level almost instantly which then makes your pet feel much better and avoids a hypoglycemic or low blood sugar crisis.
Make a glucose curve for your diabetic pet while following your daily home routine:
You wake up, take your pet outside and collect the first morning urine. Use the diastix and get a urine sugar reading so you know what dose of insulin to give. Feed 1/3 of your pets breakfast, then give the insulin. After that, give your pet the remaining 2/3 of his or her breakfast.
In the evening, just repeat the same procedure. If your pet does not eat the first part of his or her meal, before it’s time for you to inject the insulin, this is a sign that something is wrong. If this happens, do not give any insulin, call your vet.
Dr. Carol’s Tip: To save dollars: Cut each urine test strip in half longitudinally. This turns 50 diastix into 100 and cuts your cost in half.
To make your Pets Personal Insulin Curve:
Take a piece of notebook paper and write down the date each day, down the left side of the paper. Across the top of the paper, mark down the time of day, the urine sugar reading and the dose of insulin you have given every morning and every evening.
Making a urine glucose curve for your pet at home is very helpful and will provide you and your vet with valuable information. It will allow you to monitor sugar level trends and follow your pets sugar levels accurately and cost effectively. You can also add a box at the end of each day to mark down any important signs you noticed in your pet that day such as appetite, energy levels, attitude, water consumption, frequency of urinating, etc. When ever you visit your vet bring your chart along and review it with your vet.
Once you make your pet’s sugar curve chart, be sure to post it in a convenient place like your refrigerator door. This way everyone in your family will be on the same page when it comes to your pets insulin dosages.
For diabetic pet owners also trying to resolve other internal problems their pet is facing, such as stomach upsets, vomiting and diarrhea, this information may be helpful. We have had alot of success at our veterinary clinic with our diabetic canine patients by adding in digestive enzymes to help take the work load off of the already sickened pancreas. We also add probiotics, which are referred to as “good’ or “friendly” bacteria, such as Lactobacillus.
For example you’ve probably see a commercial on television for a type of yogurt called Activa. It is fine to offer pets yogurt and most pets enjoy the taste. Unfortunately your pet would need to consume so much yogurt to get enough friendly bacteria he would likely end up with another stomach ache. So we use concentrated PROBIOTIC supplements, mixed with your pets meals to accomplish this. We promote normal digestion while letting the sickened pancreas take a break.
“Friendly” bacteria are normally present in the digestive system and are responsible for absorbing digested dietary nutrients. With repeated bouts of indigestion and sensitive stomachs, the good or friendly bacteria get replaced by “bad” gas forming bacteria which prolong digestion issues and make returning to good health that much harder for your dog.
The pancreas is a small flat organ smaller than a kitchen sponge. Half of the pancreas makes digestive enzymes and the other half makes insulin. With repeated stomach upsets, including bouts of vomiting and diarrhea, the half making digestive enzymes gets inflamed and releases digestive enzymes to the point that it becomes so exhausted, pancreatitis results. With repeated bouts of pancreatitis, the other “insulin producing” half of the pancreas gets worn out and can no longer make insulin. The result is Diabetes.
We also discuss pet diets with our patients and have enjoyed success in many of our diabetic pets using home-made organic diets and a natural, patented vitamin-supplement called Paaws. Paaws vitamins balance out your pets home-made pet diet, boost internal immunity and helps to further stabilize blood sugar levels, making insulin regulation that much easier.
Many diabetic dogs also suffering with kidney issues have returned to normal kidney function by adding in the Kidney Essentials, a wonderful, natural, herbal kidney supplement.
For blind pets that already have cataracts, I am not aware of anything to reverse cataracts. However diabetic pets that can still see, have benefited from the Eye Essentials, which is also a natural, herbal eye supplement.
To join the Vetsulin Class Action Law Suit call 1-419-255-5990.
I hope this information is helpful and if I can help anyone further with diabetes regulation or other issues our toll free office phone is 1-866-372-2765.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Carol
Brenda King,
I’m not a vet, but your vet starting your dog off at 20 units of Vetsulin twice a day seems very high to me! It is much better to start at a low dose and gradually increase because of the possibility of hypoglycemia, which could kill your dog. My yellow lab mix (was 9 years old when diagnosed and 65 lbs.) was started on way too low of a dose, in my opinion: 5 units twice a day when her blood sugars in the very beginning were in the 350-390 range. I gradually increased insulin one unit per week and got up to 18 twice a day, but I think that was too high.
She’s now on 16 twice a day, but I’m probably going to switch the brand of insulin. 4o units just seems way too high to start off your dog. In my opinion, she could go in a hypoglycemic episode with the build-up of insulin in her system over time. Maybe Dr. Osborne will have advice on this. When you switch insulin, maybe you could start off at a lower dose and gradually increase.
Hi Jennifer,
I appreciate your comments. My suggestion for all diabetic pet owners is to monitor diabetic dogs and cats daily using either urine or blood at home. This way owners can closely and quickly get their pets stabilized.
Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects your pets entire body every day.
Every day a dog or cats insulin level is not correct, irreversible damage is occurring internally to your pet’s body, which is NOT necessary and easily avoided.
For diabetic pet owners using a home blood monitor, consider that each time your pets ear is pricked to get a blood sample, the stress of being pricked with a needle causes a spike (change) in the blood sugar and therefore a change in the insulin dose you calculate.
Consider using urine to check your pets sugar level. This eliminates the stress and fear pets experience by being pricked with a needle and does not adversely alter blood sugar readings. Using urine dipsticks, for example Diastix, to monitor and calculate your pets sugar levels and insulin dosages are easy, inexpensive and quite accurate for diabetic pets and owners.
Dr Carol is available to help teach pet owners how to regulate their diabetic pets at home and offer advice with home-made or commercial diets appropriate for diabetic pets. To contact Dr Carol, call her office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you,
DR Carol
A follow-up to my note about our 13 year old terrier (Ben) and his transition from Vetsulin. The insulin our vet changed him to is NPH insulin. He was taking 12 units of Vetsulin twice a day (About 25 pound dog)which seemed to work OK. We were told to start him on 10 units of NPH twice per day and watch his progress. He was initially very sick and not responding well at all. So … we increased the NPH gradually over a few days until we got to 15 units twice per day.
At that point, his sugar crashed and we thought we were going to lose him. On our vets advise we backed him back down to 10 units and then to 8 units twice per day … and amazingly, after a couple of days, he has stabilized nicely at 8 units. This all seems strange to me … but it now seems fine.
One curious and potentially unrelated item … exactly coincident with the change in insulin … he began to eat the stools of our other dogs. He had never done that in his 13 years … but there it is. We police our yard quite diligently, but from one day to the next he seems to be finding the one’s we miss. Anyway … is there any chance that’s part of the conversion to the new insulin? Sounds totally strange … but like I said … he’s never done that before even as a puppy.
Hi Doug,
I am glad you have Ben dog re-regulated on insulin! Congrats!
I am not aware of anything relative to switching Ben to new insulin that would cause him to eat his stool. Usually dogs eat stool to get minerals their diet and/or system is deficient in. You might consider having your vet run a complete set of blood tests (CBC and Chemistry Profile with a Urinalysis) to verify the status of his internal organs.
Paaws is an all-natural patented, vitamin supplement for dogs, that may be helpful to re-balance his system and is excellent with diabetic dogs. Paaws vitamins also helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels and consistent insulin levels for diabetics.
Options to stop the stool eating behavior include:
1.You can take Ben out on a leash and be sure to pick up stool to help prevent this.
2. You can try a product called Forbid made to eliminate this behavior and it does work.
3.You could also give your dog some fresh pineapple; just give a couple pieces because it is sweet and sugary and we do not want to alter his insulin requirements or sugar levels.
The pineapple is a holistic remedy to stop coprophagia, which is the technical term used for dogs eating stool.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Dr. Carol … not to belabor the point … but Ben isn’t eating his own stool … he’s eating the other dogs stool. Ben has two Basset Hounds living with him … and he’s apparently come to believe their stool is tasty. I know this happens … but I thought it was mostly a puppy thing … and the timing made it seem related to the insulin change. I’m fairly certain we used Forbid when we had this problem with our youngest a couple of years ago. The pineapple is not something I’ve heard of before. We’ll probably try that first.
Another point … our vet felt like Ben would need MORE NPH as compared to the units of Vetsulin he had been taking. Is that common? In Ben’s case, I think we almost killed him by giving him more NPH … and he is now stable on about 2/3 the number of units of Vetsulin he was taking. I mention this in case others are looking at higher doses of NPH … proceed cautiously … this is clearly not always the case based on our experience.
Doug
Hi Doug,
My suggestions for your dog to help stop eating your other dogs stool is appropriate whether or not your dog eats his own stool or other dogs stool as far as the underlying cause and the solution.
Please keep me posted.
Thank you,
Dr Carol
To Doug Gibble,
Just to let you know, one of our dogs started eating our other dogs’ and cats’ stool when we put him on a lower-calorie, lower-fat dog food. (The dog food was top of the line as far as ingredients.) Although, after quickly switching him back to regular dog food, he does still break into the cat litter room all the time, but I don’t think he eats the other dogs’ stool. He has always been consumed by food–24 hours a day!
Dear Jennifer,
The reason most dogs begin eating stool when well meaning pet owners try a low calorie pet diet is generally because most commercially available low calorie pet foods are made primarily of corn and the result is that pets like your dog become deficient in many vital nutrients and therefore scavenge whatever they can including stool, which is often readily available to try to get the nutrients they need.
Feeding pudgy pets small multiple meals every 4-6 hours with a good organic pet food and increasing daily exercise to at least 20 minutes twice a day generally works well to promote weight loss and does not lead to stool eating.
Dr Carol
Dr. Osborne,
Thank you for your reply. I haven’t wanted to test Whitney a lot because I have to prick her lip–sometimes two or three or more times, to get a drop of blood, and I know this is stressful for her (and me!) and is somewhat painful. I didn’t know that about her blood sugar going up higher because of the stress; it makes sense. Also, I kept reading that urine testing is such a wide range that it doesn’t do much good.
I also kept reading that a dog’s glucose readings should be like a bell curve, but then I read it should be a pretty steady level—not highs and lows—which makes a lot more sense to me. Could you explain what the blood sugars should look like if the dog is regulated? Thank you so much.
Dear Jennifer,
A properly regulated dog or cat should have steady glucose readings daily or twice daily. On the other hand, a blood glucose curve run over the course of a full day at the vets office should be a bell shaped curve.
Dr Carol
RESPONSE FOR JENNIFER SAUERWEIN … thanks for your comments. You mention that your dog has always been consumed by food 24 hours a day. Our Ben is like that too .. and has been since he got diabetes. Did you notice this behavior in your dog as part of Whitney’s diabetes onset? We’ve wondered about that for a long time and never really got an answer from our vet. The original thought was that it might have something to do with Cushings … but Ben doesn’t have Cushings.
Dear Doug & Jennifer,
With respect to your dogs appetite if Cushings Disease has been ruled out be sure your dogs diabetes is properly regulated as if not appetite surges are a sign of unregulated diabetes.
Consider giving fresh vegetables as snacks for hungry diabetic pets. Broccoli and Green beans, etc are great and have a minor affect on blood sugar levels.
Avoid carrots as they are high in sugar. Avoid frozen vegetables as they are loaded with sodium.
Dr Carol
Dear Dr. Carol,
Your information is so helpful! My Brittany Spaniel, Mollie, 14 years old, was diagnosed with diabetes 2 1/2 years ago. She has been on Vetsulin 11 units twice a day after staring with 4 units and increasing her dose.
This past year has been like a yo-yo for her.I noticed some vials of Vetsulin did not seem to work. She would get her diabetes symptoms back & loose weight also. I mentioned this to my vet last fall and they did not have any suggestions other than bring her in or increase her dose of Vetsulin.
I monitor her urine daily which went up and down. I heard about the recall and asked my vet and they said the Vetsulin was fine. Now my dog is blind and weighs 23 pounds. I took her in last week her glucose was 366. All other tests were normal. The Vet said to keep her on Vetsulin and just bring the vial in if I think it is not working to exchange for a new one.
I don’t think this is a good idea since she has been going up and down like a yo-yo for at least 8 months. What is your opinion? If I am giving her a shot twice a day I want to know it is doing some good, not gamble the Vetsulin will or will not work. She is a love and so sweet. It breaks my heart to see her suffer.
Your website is awesome!
Thank you much,
Patti Olson
Hi Patti,
I would ask your vet for a refund on the Vetsulin and get a prescription for DNA based insulin, TODAY to help prevent further deterioration of your dogs health.
If you need further help please call our office toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
If we are not suppose to use Vetsulin then what insulin should we use?
DNA Based insulin: Humulin or NPH Insulin
Dr Carol
Would my Vet know what DNA version to use?
Hi Greg
Yes your vet will know-DNA based insulin is either Humulin or NPH available at most pharmacies including Walmart for $24-$28.00 a bottle
Thank you
Dr Carol
Dr. Carol,
My dog Monty was diagnosed with diabetes in Sept 08. He had been on prednisone for 4 years for Immune mediated thrombocytopenia. This made regulating his diabetes impossible. He was on two different types of insulin (Humulin was one-forgot the other)–he crashed three times in October 08. By Feb 09 he was in the ICU. The ER vet put him on Vetsulin and weaned him off prednisone (and onto aziathroprene). It seemed to work.
It took us until Dec 09 to feel like Monty was regulated–although he still seemed to spike his glucose and have an accident once every 3 weeks or so. We kept asking our vet why this would happen. No advice. We were just happy he was alive at this point so we live with the accidents.
Now I find out today about the Vetsulin recall–2 months after the fact. At first I was freaking at the thought of starting all over with a new insulin–but after reading some of these posts I wonder what we should do.
Do you think the Humulin will work better now that Monty is off prednisone? I feel sick to my stomach. Other than the occasional accidents Monty seems to be thriving.
Thanks
Terri
Hi Dr. Carol and Doug,
Regarding the stool-eating, it’s one of my other dogs who does this–Lance, not my diabetic one, Whitney. (Whitney has always been very finicky!) Lance started the stool-eating when I put him on a low calorie and fat dog food, made by Flint River Ranch—top-of-the-line ingredients that doesn’t have any corn it. He eats four very small meals daily. He is a lab/beagle mix so I think the beagle in him makes him famished 24 hours a day! He’s always been like this since a puppy when we got him. We checked his blood sugar nine months ago and it was 87, although we do need to check it again. Our third dog’s BS was 65! All of our dogs have always gotten exercise, almost every day. I take them to the park for a good hour normally, and even a lot longer in the winter time, and they run and chase squirrels. And they don’t really eat that much food and little “people food.” So I was pretty shocked when Whitney developed diabetes (and still haven’t gotten over the shock nine months later!) because she always seemed so strong and tough and healthy and got regular exercise.
Also, to be clear: Whitney has not gone blind. (I have to say, “Knock on wood”!!) I certainly hope her eyesight hasn’t been affected in the last couple of months with the tainted Vetsulin. I don’t think it has. Over the summer and fall, when she would chase a squirrel in the park, I would count my steps to measure the distance that she saw the squirrel from, and the farthest one was 160 feet away so I was so happy! Lately, there haven’t been many squirrels in the park for me to measure. And she see her treat crumbs up very close.
My vet wrote a prescription for Humilin-N last week, and Whitney has been on it since 1/19/10. She seems to be doing well on it. We’re giving her 11 or 12 units BID compared to 16 units BID with the Vetsulin. She’s used only about 30% of the bottle so we’ll be spending a little less than half the cost compared to the Vetsulin. Plus a box of 100 syringes was only $10.00 at Krogers compared to $35.00 (for 100 syringes) at the vet’s office!
Our vet was good about writing up the script for Humilin, although he did kind of discourage it, saying it doesn’t last as long as the Vetsulin; Whitney receives two shots a day, and the whites of her eyes do start getting brown/red about an hour-and-a-half before her next meal and shot, which is supposed to be a sign of high blood sugar. I didn’t think to ask the Kroger pharmacist at the time—I’m not sure if I should give Whit her shot right after she eats or wait a little bit. With the Vetsulin, the directions say to wait 20 minutes after eating, but I can’t find anything in the Humilin insert regarding it (or on the Internet).
It will be nice spending half the cost annually after switching insulin, but I hate that Whitney’s health may have been affected with high and low blood sugars, and all the problems other people have experienced with their pets being on Vetsulin. With the Vetsulin and syringes and blood testing strips, we were going to be spending over $1100 per year, and now with the Humilin it will be less than half that. Plus I spend a small fortune on all the vitamins and supplements for Whitney!
Thank you for all your help, Dr. Carol, and to everyone else for their blogs. I’ll keep you posted as to how Whit’s doing on the Humilin. Thanx again!
~Jennifer Sauerwein
Hi Jennifer
I am glad you were able to get Whit re-regulated on the new insulin. If I can help you moving forward just let me know
Best Wishes
Dr Carol
Dear Jennifer,
You might consider getting a bottle of Diastix or if they do not have Diastix get a bottle of Keto-Diastix at Walgreen’s.
This would allow you to monitor your dogs urine sugar and regulate his insulin dosage daily at home quite economically.
You can cut the strips in half longitudinally which will reduce your cost 50%. If you get Keto-Diastix, you will only use the glucose side of the strips and ignore the ketone side.
Should you have questions about just how this works, feel free to call my office and I am glad to teach you exactly how to do this. This is accurate, economical and it works very well.
I have an excellent, all-natural, USA made, vitamin supplement, patented for dogs called PAAWS, available at chagrinfallspetclinic.com, that we have had wonderful results with in our diabetic canine patients. Paaws helps to further stabilize blood sugar and maintain steady insulin levels.
With Paaws and your new DNA based insulin, you would not need any further supplements as
PAAWS Vitamins contain:
Anti-Oxidants: Vitamin A. Vitamin C and Vitamin E, Co-Enzyme Q10 for heart health, Lutein for vision, Alpha Lipoic Acid; L- Taurine,
The complete B-Vitamin Complex: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, Biotin and Inositol.
Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc and Manganese;
Herbs: Ginseng-a natural energizing body tonic;
Hip & Joint Boosters: Glucosamine, Chondroitan Sulfate and MSM;
Digestive Enzymes-the full spectrum:amylase, lipase, lactase, protease and amylase;
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA);
Immune System Boosters: Colostrum,
Melatonin in the senior formula, an amino acid that naturally protects brain health.
L-Glutamine, which further supports intestinal health and digestion;
Lemon Carotenoids and Mixed Bioflavanoids which boost natural resistance against allergies and itching,
Chromium and Vanadium act to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels.
PAAWS is patented, USA made and contains no artificial fillers, or preservatives and no brewers yeast. All vitamins and minerals in PAAWS are water soluble, naturally chelated or mixed with nutrients to promote maximal absorption and PAAWS comes with a 60 day money back guarantee.
PAAWS backed by double blind clinical trials and our 13 year canine lifetime study was recently completed. Preliminary results indicate dogs were able to enjoy up to a 30% increase in healthy life spans. Small breed dogs under 35 pounds enjoyed daily quality of life and good health through age 24 and large breed dogs over 80 pounds were still going strong at age 18.
If I can be of any further help just give us a call toll free at 1-866-372-2765.
Best Wishes
Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM
Dear Dr. Carol,
I have been in tears and researching canine diabetes for the past 6 hours… when I first stumbled onto the vetsulin alert. I am so angry and scared.
My precious Sweetheart, a Lhasa Apso whom I adopted about 6 years ago now, was just diagnosed with diabetes three weeks ago this coming Friday. I brought her in due to frequent urination and lethargy. My regular vet retired, but the new vet seemed nice enough, albeit young. She started Sweetheart on 4 units of vetsulin twice daily (at 12 hour intervals with no food inbetween), then up to 6 units twice daily, and this past week she has been on 8 units. We are scheduled for another glucose curve “day” this Friday (that makes one a week at this point).
If only I weren’t so trusting, I would have done some research sooner! I called an emergency clinic this evening to see if I should even give Sweetheart the vetsulin this evening. He thought I should, as not giving anything could be even more damagine, but to call the vet first thing in the morning. I called the vet and left a message immediately, and if I don’t hear from them by 8AM, Sweetheart and I are heading to another vet by 9AM!
I am OUTRAGED that this vet prescribed my baby poison! And I’m mad at myself, too… for being so trusting. I had a “feeling” that I should get a second opinion, but didn’t follow up with it. I’m on disability myself, and have in 3 weeks spent over $400 of my $600 monthly income. Don’t get me wrong… I’d pay ANYTHING to keep my babies healthy (I have a 10 year old cat as well.)
I went ahead and gave Sweetheart her 8 units tonight, but PRAYED VERY HARD that the good Lord would turn it into water if it would hurt her in any manner. (Actually, I’ve prayed that every time I’ve injected her… with my medical background, I just don’t trust pharmaceutical companies, be they for humans or animals!)
Also, I have had Sweetheart on Blue Buffalo kibbles for about 2 years now, and make sure to feed her only the best meat-first products. About 6 months ago Sweetheart had two broken teeth pulled, so I started adding 1/2 a can of wet food daily as well. When this diagnoses came up, I went and double-triple-quadruple checked ingredients and made sure I had high protein, high fiber, low simple-carb, low fat foods for her (and stopped giving her treats and any ‘human’ food). Then this past Friday, the vet (whom I didn’t even see!) had me buy a bag of Science Diet Prescription w/d kibbles… which is made with corn first. HUH?!
That’s really what made me get into the web and start searching. Just wish I had done it three weeks ago before I ever stuck a needle — however small it may be — into my precious baby’s skin!
I need help, Dr. Carol. I don’t know who to turn to around here who might even have a decent clue about canine diabetes. But I do know that tomorrow, she will not receive her 9AM vetsulin injection as we’ll be working with either a brand new vet — or at the very least a brand new insulin!
ANYTHING you have to share with me would be so greatly appreciated. My children are the furry kind, and I can’t imagine losing another one.
Blessings on you,
Dawn
Hi Dawn,
I am more than glad to help you with this so please don’t worry.
Just ask the vet for a refund on the Vetsulin and get a prescription for DNA based insulin. Humulin or NPH is available at most pharmacies, including Walmart;the cost is $24-$28.00 a bottle. Pick up a bottle of urine test strips called Diastix at Walgreens. If they do not have the Diastix get a bottle of Keto-Diastix.
If you call me I will teach you exactly what to do. It is very easy and we have been getting dogs like yours regulated in less than 5 days, very economically and without any problems at all.
Our toll free office phone is 1-866-372-2765.
Thank you
DR Carol
One more thing… what is the difference between PAAWS and VitaLife? Which would be best for my 11-year-old Sweetheart with diabetes?
Thanks again,
Dawn
Hi Dawn,
The only difference between PAAWS and VitaLife is that VitaLife contains chondroitan sulfate and additional omega-3 fatty acids
which is more helpful for pets with advanced arthritis.
Either product if fine for your dog and both are wonderful for diabetics.
I am glad to talk to you
Thank you
Dr Carol
Hi Dr. Carol,
Thank you for all your help on this blog. I used to give Whitney Fish Oil and Glucosamine before she was diagnosed with diabetes, and with lots of research, I read on many different sites that diabetic dogs shouldn’t take Omega 3’s or 6’s or both (I forget now!) but basically they shouldn’t have Fish Oil because it can block the insulin. And I read that they (diabetic dogs) shouldn’t have Glucosamine but MSM is safe. Fortunately, Whitney has never shown signs of arthritis, which is pretty amazing to me, but I have always given our dogs MSM and Glucosamine to help with/prevent arthritis.
Dawn, I wish you wouldn’t beat yourself up. You’re very fortunate that your dog was on the Vetsulin only three weeks. Many peoples’ dogs have been on it much, much longer–mine was on it for 9 1/2 months.
Also, I think I’ll check out Wal-Mart if they’re charging $24-$28 a bottle. At Krogers, I paid $43, which is still less than half have the cost of Vetsulin.
Whitney seems to be doing well on the Humulin N but she is still somewhat too thirsty, and she had an accident in the house the other day. I’m going to raise the insulin one unit.
Thank you so much for everything, Dr. Carol.
Hi Jennifer,
I am very glad Whitney is doing better.
Just to update your information regarding safe supplements for dogs with Diabetes,
Glucosamine and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are just fine for diabetic dogs.
The Omega-6 Fatty Acids promote inflammation therefore should be avoided with diabetic pets.
Thank you,
Dr Carol
Hello All!
Well, good news! By 10AM that next morning I had Sweetheart into a new vet. The previous one didn’t call until just as we were walking out the door. The previous vet used the “the vial we gave you wasn’t from the bad stock”. I, of course, told her what the Vetsulin site itself said (not to use Vetsulin on any new diabetic patients) and that it was not a “stock” issue, but that Vetsulin itself wasn’t regulating correctly. She “uh-huh”ed me to death and I don’t think heard what I had to say (albeit brief). I hope she’ll research Vetsulin on her own and find out the truth of it.
Anyway, Sweetie and I went to a new vet her LISTENED and SPOKE with me. Good communicator. She examined Sweetheart with me present (the previous vet took her in the back). She prescribed Humulin.
That morning (Thursday) Sweetheart didn’t receive any insulin, but did get her first 4 units of Humulin that evening. SHE HAD BEEN AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT DOG SINCE THAT MORNING. She’s back to her “old self” to such a degree that even my other family members noticed at a get-together. Her tummy is no longer bloated or puffy, she’s no longer lethargic, and she’s back to her playful self!
Thank you so much for all the information you provide here on this site! You saved my precious Sweetheart from a horrible death.
Blessings to you!
Dawn
Hi Dawn,
I am glad you got Sweetie back on the right track. Keep up your great work and if you need any help just let me know.
Congrats,
Dr Carol
Hello Dr. Osborne this is Wayne and Vito, we just have to ask you a few things , for one we have a dog name Muggs and he was put on vetsulin a few months ago and before we started vetsulin he was losing his fur, his stomach was bloated, urinating all day all night, sat by the water dish 24/7, this was right before we started Vetsulin.
Now he has been on vetsulin for over a few months and just started to get the same symptoms all over again for the past 5 days , we know its the vetsulin , because its the same symptoms starting again like before we started him on Vetsulin. What does this mean, what should we do, please, please help us in anyway.
Thank you