The Life Span Cycle Of Vet Care For Dogs

Pancreas Problems in Pooches: Know the Signs

27 January 2021 by Leonard Wallace

Your pancreas is located behind your stomach, and operates as part of your digestive system, diligently regulating your blood sugar levels. Any issues with this part of your body may not be immediately attributed to your pancreas, since many of the symptoms (abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea) are easily confused with other, unrelated ailments. But when these issues are ultimately the result of pancreatitis, medical intervention can be necessary. The same is true with your dog, but how would you even know if your dog's pancreas has become a problem?

Signs of Pancreatitis

While untreated pancreatitis can be fatal, this is very much a worst-case scenario, and the signs of the disorder will be evident long before it becomes potentially lethal. General gastrointestinal distress is one of the key signs of the issue, and this often presents as abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhoea. Your dog may even lose their appetite since the consumption of food can trigger these previously-mentioned symptoms. If your dog begins to display these symptoms, then you need to schedule an appointment with your vet.

At the Vet 

Your vet can treat the unpleasant symptoms of pancreatitis, and the underlying cause of the issue can be managed, although not cured. Your dog's discomfort will be addressed with pain relief, and in extreme cases, a short stay at the vet's surgery may be necessary. This allows the vet and their staff to closely monitor your dog, and their food and water will often be given with a feeding tube during this time. This won't be required for an extended period of time, so how should canine pancreatitis be managed when you take your dog home?

Your Dog's Diet

Management of the condition is largely related to your dog's diet. You will be advised to sharply reduce your dog's fat intake, as a low-fat diet is best for combating inflammation of the pancreas. Your vet will be able to advise a specific type of pet food that is best for your particular dog, which takes your dog's age, breed, and medical history into account. Your vet may also suggest a pancreatic enzyme supplement to be added to your dog's low-fat pet food. You should follow your dog's dietary recommendations to the letter. 

Your dog's pancreatic problems will be with them for the rest of their days, but by following a healthy low-fat diet, your precious pooch's pancreas will be as pristine as possible. 

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