PANCREATITIS IN DOGS

Pancreatitis in dogs occurs when a dog's pancreas becomes inflamed. It's a painful condition that usually causes abdominal pain and other symptoms. The pancreas is an organ in a dog's abdomen that produces digestive enzymes to help break down food. When the process doesn't work correctly Pancreatitis can occur, and it can be fatal if left untreated. 

Pancreatitis in Dogs

Dog Pancreatitis is common during the holidays when dogs may ingest human foods with a high fat content like turkey skin, meat drippings, gravies, butter, cheeses, rich sauces, and other fat laden food. It's important to keep a close eye on your dog during holiday feasting, and the leftovers they create! Be cautious about which foods you share from your holiday table with the dog. 

Make certain houseguests and kids know it can be dangerous to give dogs rich fatty table foods. Keep dogs out of the garbage as well. Ingesting fatty human foods is a common cause of pancreatitis in dogs.

The average Veterinarian sees about 4 cases of Pancreatitis in dogs per month. This number increases significantly during the holidays, from Thanksgiving through New Years.

What Causes Pancreatitis in Dogs

🐾 Many times the cause of Pancreatitis in the dog can't be determined with certainty. In addition, some dog breeds are prone to developing Pancreatitis such as Mini Schnauzers and Cocker Spaniels. In addition, some dog medications can cause inflammation of the pancreas, resulting in Pancreatitis. In these cases, dog owners have to work closely with their Veterinarian to try to keep the condition manageable.

🐾 Obesity, Diabetes, and Hyperthyroidism may also cause Pancreatitis. Again, working closely with your Veterinarian to treat and manage the condition is the key action.

🐾 But for many dogs, Pancreatitis can be triggered when a dog consistently eats food that has a high fat content, eats a very fatty meal, eats human food that is very high in fat, or if the dog gets into the garbage where he may find the remnants of human food that is very high in fat. These causes of dog Pancreatitis are well within our control. Keeping a close eye on everything my dogs ingest is something I've always done, and that I highly recommend other dog owners pay close attention to. It's especially important during the holidays or any other special occasions where high fat foods are served. Especially if kids or houseguests may be tempted to share tasty human foods with the dog!

Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs

The most common symptoms you'll see in dogs with Pancreatitis are;

✅ Abdominal pain

✅ You may see your dog assume a "praying position" in an attempt to relieve their abdominal pain. This position almost looks like a play bow, where their butt is up in the air and their head is bowed down.

✅ Vomiting

✅ Diarrhea

✅ Loss of appetite

✅ Fever

✅ Dehydration

Pancreatitis should be addressed by a Veterinarian, and quickly. Your Veterinarian will use blood tests, abdominal X-rays or abdominal Ultrasound to diagnose Pancreatitis. Don't wait to see the Vet if you suspect your dog may have Pancreatitis!

How To Treat Pancreatitis in Dogs

Treatments of dog Pancreatitis can vary depending on several factors, such as the suspected causes and the severity of the condition.  Treatment can include changing the dog's diet to a low fat diet, giving the dog various types of medications, or IV fluid therapy if needed. Dogs with Pancreatitis often need to be hospitalized for a few days for the condition to clear up.

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Pancreatitis in dogs is no joke. It is serious, and can be fatal. It's critical to get your dog to the Vet as soon as possible if you suspect they have Pancreatitis.

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