How do I adjust my pet’s insulin injections at the beginning and end of daylight saving time?
For most diabetic dogs and cats, the safest approach for the beginning of daylight saving is that one insulin injection is missed. The clocks are turned forward 1 hour and (except for the missed injection) all injections are given at the usual time. This avoids the possibility that insulin overdose might result when there is overlap of insulin action from injections given less than 12 hours apart.
Your pet can be fed his/her usual meal when the insulin injection is missed.
There is no requirement to miss an insulin injection at the end of daylight saving time. Injections can be continued at the usual times.
It is recommended that you contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about this. Some diabetic animals might be better receiving half the usual dose of insulin instead of missing an injection altogether.
Note: If you routinely check your pet’s blood glucose concentration prior to each insulin injection, there is no need for you to miss an insulin injection. You can continue to give each insulin dose as usual.