Dealing With Canine Pancreatitis

Dealing With
Canine Pancreatitis

Canine pancreatitis affects thousands
of dogs each year. This serious medical condition occurs when the pancreas
becomes inflamed and swollen. Some canine breeds, such as Yorkshire terriers
and Schnauzers are genetically predisposed to develop this condition. Dogs that
have hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, diabetes, are older in age, and have
other health issues, also have an increased chance of developing pancreatitis. This
disease can be either acute or chronic. Chronic is the kind that continues to
occur, while acute can happen suddenly at any time.

How the Pancreas
Works

The pancreas promotes healthy digestion so that a canine’s body is able
to absorb the nutrition it needs. This organ releases digestive enzymes into
the digestive tract to facilitate the breakdown of food into fats, proteins,
and carbohydrates. During a pancreatic attack, the pancreas releases digestive
enzymes into the abdominal area. Digestive enzymes are acidic and can cause
damage to other organs in the body. This can cause a great deal of pain and
swelling in the abdominal area. Repeated attacks can scar the pancreas, causing
it to decrease in function. Pancreatitis in dogs can be lethal if it remains
untreated.

Medical
Treatment for Acute Pancreatitis

Hospitalization is required for dogs that suffer from severe pancreatitis.
To prevent shock and dehydration, the affected organs need to rest. The
administration of a liquid diet for several days will restore a canine’s electrolyte
balance and help to flush the toxins from the pancreas. Prescribed antibiotics will
prevent bacterial infections and treat any inflammation. In some severe cases,
surgery is the best option for treatment.

Diet Can Affect
Pancreatic Health

Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining a healthy pancreas. Dogs
that eat frequently, while consuming large amounts of fats and poor quality grains,
are at an increased risk of having a pancreatic attack. Limit the amount
of table scraps and fatty foods that your pet eats. Fatty foods, excessive
grain consumption, and frequent feedings lead to increased lipase (digestive
enzymes) production. Elevated lipase levels can trigger a pancreatic attack.

Nutrients Can
Improve Health

Your pet needs vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to keep them
healthy. These nutrients help to support the function and health of their body.
Without the proper nutrients, their organs, including the pancreas can become
unhealthy. An unhealthy pancreas is more likely to become inflamed and swollen.
Milk thistle and Echinacea are both immune boosting supplements that can help
to strengthen a dog’s health after a pancreatic attack. Probiotics can restore
the balance of good bacteria in your pet’s digestive tract after treatment with
antibiotics. Vitamins C, E, and magnesium have antioxidant properties that can reduce
the chances of a future attack.

Exercise Can
Improve Digestive Health

It is important for canines to maintain a healthy weight. Dogs that are
overweight or obese are more likely to have a pancreatic attack. Regular
activity and exercise are necessary to maintain healthy levels of lipase
activity and to prevent unnecessary stress on the pancreas. Increased exercise
and physical activity can improve the overall health of the digestive system.

There is no cure for pancreatitis. However, regular veterinary visits, a
healthy diet, and an active lifestyle can significantly reduce the chances of
your dog developing pancreatitis in the future.