Pancreatitis is more than
just a pain in the gut,
it can be a life threatening
condition that all dog owners
should be aware of.
Hypothyroidism
(or other endocrine diseases)
A severe abdominal injury or blunt trauma
A blocked pancreatic duct
Bacterial infections
Some breeds are more predisposed
to pancreatitis mainly smaller toy breeds,
Terriers, Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers
Certain medications can increase the risk
To diagnose pancreatitis a veterinarian
will take a detailed history, do a physical
examination, look at the clinic symptoms,
run blood tests and possibly do an ultrasound
to look for inflammation of the pancreas.
Treatment usually involves hospitalisation
and supportive therapies to manage
and relieve the symptoms. This typically
involves intravenous fluids, pain relief, anti-
inflammatories and anti-nausea medications.
They will be kept on a low fat diet and fed
small amounts a number of times a day.
They may have a nasogastric tube placed if
they are not eating on their own.
For more information tune into the
myPET Podcast episode on Pancreatitis in
Dogs where Aria and vet-n-pet DIRECT's
resident veterinarian Dr Glenn talk about
everything you need to know. You can
listen to the myPET Podcast on the
vet-n-pet DIRECT YouTube Channel,
through iTunes or Stitcher, or listen
through www.vetnpetdirect.com.au
The management of a dog that has suffered
pancreatitis will depend on the underlying
cause, if known, of the onset. However, for
all pancreatitis dogs an important part of
post pancreatitis management is the diet.
Straight after a bout of pancreatitis a dog
should be on a very low fat diet to allow the
pancreas to heal and recover. Long term the
dog should be kept on a low to moderate fat,
well balanced diet. Ensuring that they are not
fed too many treats or unnecessary foods is
important. Probiotics and prebiotics are also
believed to be beneficial and improve gut
health to help with the digestion process.
