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My diabetic Chihuahua fears needles. How can I give insulin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund (Miniature Smooth Haired) | Female | spayed | 3 years and 2 months old | 8 lbs

Are there holistic treatments for a 14 year old neurotic, slightly overweight Chihuahuas who was just diagnosed with diabetes? I'm due to discuss insulin schedule with her vet, but she is truly a drama queen, and I don't want her to be afraid of me coming at her with a needle, for however long she has left! Thank you so much!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2019

Diabetes is a disease that needs to be treated with insulin in dogs - there are no appropriate holistic or herbal treatments that could replace insulin injections. Most dogs tolerate injections well - the needle is very small and the injection is over quickly. I recommend distracting dogs with a tasty treat that takes awhile to eat - some canned dog food smeared into a thin layer on a plate works well - so that they don't notice the injection as much. A well regulated diabetic dog can have a normal life span with a good quality of life.

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