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Dog Pancreatitis"Dog pancreatitis is associated with obesity and high fat diets in middle age dogs, although the exact cause of the condition is unclear. The pancreas becomes inflamed and releases enzymes that cause the body to attack its own pancreatic tissue. The result is inflammation and multiple symptoms. Treatment includes dietary change and fluids." Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ that does two things. First, it helps the body metabolize sugar by producing insulin. Second, it is necessary for the digestion of nutrients by its production of pancreatic enzymes. Canine Pancreatitis can be caused by many things, including certain medications, infections, metabolic disorders, trauma and shock. Middle-aged dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with the condition than younger dogs. Dogs who are fed diets high in fat or those who are fed greasy “people food” are at high risk for the condition. Acute pancreatitis is a sudden onset of the condition. Some dogs have only one episode of pancreatitis, while others have ongoing problems with the disease. Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers are more susceptible to pancreatitis than other breeds. Dog Pancreatitis SymptomsPancreatitis canine symptoms include a very painful abdomen with abdominal distension and a “hunched up” appearance. Other symptoms include lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea (yellow, greasy stool), depression, fever, and dehydration. In severe cases, symptoms may also include heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), sepsis (body-wide infection), and difficulty breathing.If your dog has symptoms of pancreatitis, he should see a vet right away. It will be obvious that he is ill and in need of treatment. Dog Pancreatitis DiagnosisYour vet will take a thorough history and do a physical examination of your dog. He or she will also do some blood work. If your dog has pancreatitis, blood levels of the pancreatic enzymes amylase and lipase will be elevated. If the liver is also inflamed, which is sometimes the case with pancreatitis, liver enzymes in the blood will also be elevated. Your vet will also do an ultrasound to look at your dog’s pancreas.Pancreatitis Canine TreatmentThe treatment for acute dog pancreatitis begins with fluid therapy. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are common, so fluids are given by IV or subcutaneously (under the skin). Medication may be given to stop vomiting and diarrhea.Antibiotics are usually given to prevent a bacterial infection from setting in. Pain medication is also given. Oral food and fluids are restricted for a few days so the digestive system and therefore the pancreas can rest. After a few days, small amounts of water and a bland diet are offered, a little at a time. Food and water intake can be increased as tolerated. Dogs who have repeated episodes of pancreatitis need to be fed low-fat diets made for dogs with pancreatitis such as Iams Veterinary Formula Intestinal Dry Dog Food. Chronic pancreatitis can lead to diabetes or to pancreatic insufficiency, which is a condition in which the nutrients in food are passed out of the body in the feces undigested. Pets with this disease need to have their diets supplemented with pancreatic enzymes. Dietary Supplements for Pancreatic HealthHerbal and homeopathic remedies have a history of successful use in promoting liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic health and functioning. They can be used alone or as part of the total treatment strategy, depending on the diagnosis and the recommendations of your holistic veterinarian. One supplement made for this purpose is PetAlive Liver-Aid Formula which naturally eliminate toxins.A few of the ingredients to look for in a supplement include: Carduus marianus (Milk thistle) - antioxidant Arctium lappa (Burdock) - blood purifier Natrium sulphate (D6) - promotes pancreatic health Check with your veterinarian regarding any treatment options for pancreatitis. SourcesPancreatitisNash, Holly DVM Pancreatitis in Dogs and Cats From Dog Pancreatitis to Dog Health Guide Home
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