Pancreatitis in Dogs

To properly understand pancreatitis in dogs, here is a little information about the pancreas. The pancreas is a glandular organ found just under the stomach. It has two crucial roles. It creates enzymes required for the digestion of foods, especially fats and proteins, and it makes the hormones like insulin which are essential for the metabolism of sugar and amino acids.

Pancreatitis in dogs is either acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas. When the enzymes become activated within the pancreas, they begin digesting the actual glandular tissue, creating pancreatitis. In serious cases, pancreatitis can result in long-term ramifications such as recurrent chronic pancreatitis and diabetes.

The Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs

These vary greatly between faint signs of digestive disturbance to serious pain, when your pet can collapse.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs can include Vomiting, Looseness of the bowels, Lack of appetite, Abdominal pain, Dehydration, Feverishness, Depression, Weakness, Losing weight

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

In numerous instances the cause of the pancreatitis remains a mystery, nevertheless there are a number of recognized risk elements:

Obesity

Raised fat levels inside the blood or hyperlipidemia

High fat diet which can trigger hyperlipidemia

Contaminated food or water

A build up of toxins in the body. This can be caused by pesticides, house-hold chemicals, and antibiotics

Cushing's disease or kidney disease

Injury to the pancreas or abdomen

Blockage in the the pancreatic duct

Diagnosing Pancreatitis in Dogs

Your dog's vet can perform an exhaustive physical examination and gather a detailed history from you.

Talk about your dog's diet as fatty meals are a common spark for the condition. Blood tests will pick up any pancreatic enzymes and your vet may also recommend a radiograph to rule out other conditions or diseases of the stomach.

Help for Pancreatitis

Treatment of pancreatitis in dogs is generally supportive. This means that there is no medication that will heal it, but certain treatment can be given to let the pancreas heal on its own. As enzymes are produced whenever the stomach receives food or water, your vet will probably suggest that your dog gets no food, water or medicine for a period of between 2-5 days.

Meanwhile, nutrition and fluid will be given intravenously. Sometimes antibiotics may also be given. Surgery may be needed for dogs that do not show improvement. Your vet will also look into the potential cause of the pancreatitis with the intention of treating that.

Natural Remedies

While veterinary treatment is always required to treat pancreatitis in dogs, herbal and homeopathic remedies can be used as a preventative program or alongside conventional treatment. Certain herbs and homeopathic ingredients have been identified as having excellent tonic properties for the liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Milk thistle is one such herb which acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps to remove toxins at a cellular level.

Burdock is another herb that can be taken to prevent pancreatitis or assist in the treatment of chronic forms of the condition. This herb has antibiotic properties and works as a blood purifier. The bio-chemic tissue salt Nat. Phos. is also recommended as it helps break down and assimilate fats, while Nat. Sulph. helps to detox the liver and promote pancreatic health.

Tips for Preventing Pancreatitis in Dogs

A healthy diet is crucial. A low-fat, high-fiber diet is generally suggested for the prevention of pancreatitis. If your pet has chronic pancreatitis, a single fatty meal can be enough to set off a bout of pancreatitis.

Obesity should always be avoided. Aim at keeping your dog at his or her ideal weight. This should be easily achievable with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

Stress can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Some pets are more anxious than others so they could require reassurance and care, particularly during times of change.

Avoid toxins. Your dog's wellness may be affected by toxins like pesticides, medications and house-hold cleaners. Restrict environmental toxins as much as possible, and when conventional medications are necessary, then consider a detox for your dog.