What to do if you forgot to give your dog insulin?

It’s a moment that makes even the most attentive dog owners freeze: you glance at the clock, and suddenly realize—you missed your dog’s insulin shot. Diabetes in dogs is tricky enough without these little slip-ups, but here’s the thing: it happens to the best of us. The first thought might be to panic, but taking a breath is the smartest first move. Your pup’s health depends on steady management, but one missed dose rarely spells disaster if you act calmly.

Doubling up on the next dose to “catch up” is the worst move you could make. Insulin is a powerful hormone, and too much at once can send your dog’s blood sugar plummeting dangerously low. That kind of drop can lead to seizures, confusion, or even coma—scarier than the missed dose itself. Instead, note down exactly when you realized the mistake. Jotting down the time helps your vet piece together the timeline, which matters more than you might think for adjusting the next steps.

Keep a close watch on your dog in the hours after. Signs something’s off might include excessive thirst, lethargy, or unusual behavior—clues their blood sugar is creeping out of balance. Some dogs get restless; others become unusually quiet. Every pup reacts a bit differently, so trust what you know about your dog’s normal habits. If they seem perfectly fine? That’s good news, but it still doesn’t mean you can skip checking in with your vet.

Most vets will want to hear about the missed dose, even if your dog looks okay. They’ll likely guide you on when to give the next shot—usually sticking to the regular schedule, maybe with a slight adjustment based on how much time has passed. Following their advice isn’t just about keeping your dog healthy; it’s part of responsible pet ownership, which lines up with the guidelines that keep our pets safe in communities everywhere. Your vet knows your dog’s history, from their weight to how they’ve responded to insulin in the past, so their input is irreplaceable here.

Preventing the mistake in the first place can save a lot of stress. Phone alarms, calendar reminders, even a sticky note on the fridge—whatever works for your routine. Many dog owners with diabetic pups swear by setting a reminder that syncs with their phone and smartwatch, so it’s hard to miss. Consistency helps your dog stay stable, and little hacks like these make it easier to stay on track.

At the end of the day, caring for a diabetic dog means staying vigilant, but it also means cutting yourself some slack when things go sideways. You’re doing your best, and that’s what counts. With a clear head, a quick call to your vet, and a plan to stay consistent, you and your pup can get back to your routine in no time. After all, their health—and your peace of mind—deserve that much.