Many dogs will be one-time offenders for pancreatitis, while others will struggle with symptoms for the rest of their lives. Understanding the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, the diagnostic process, as well as a comprehensive diet and management, are important steps to help your dog manage pain.
What does the pancreas do?
The pancreas is an organ located on the right side of the stomach that plays an important role in your dog’s digestive health. It produces digestive enzymes and insulin to regulate blood sugar.
Pancreatitis is defined as inflammation of the pancreas and can manifest as acute or become a chronic disease over time. Many times, pancreatitis is triggered by dietary intolerance and the consumption of high-fat foods. This is why veterinary emergency facilities have an uptick in cases of pancreatitis around the holidays, when pets typically eat more human food. Other causes of pancreatitis include genetic predisposition, cancer, obesity, hormonal imbalances such as diabetes, and certain medications. The cause of pancreatitis is often unknown.
Top signs of pancreatitis in dogs
When considering whether your dog is suffering from pancreatitis, look for the most common signs and symptoms. Symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis will vary in length and severity.
Acute pancreatitis is the sudden onset of symptoms including:
- Continuous vomiting
- Stomachache
- Disturbance or decreased appetite
- Dehydration
- Extreme coma
Chronic pancreatitis persists for a long time with symptoms including:
- Reduced appetite
- Stomachache
- Continuous vomiting
- Diarrhea
Acute pancreatitis presents with severe symptoms and is more common in dogs than chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis can manifest more subtly and get worse over time. Some dogs with chronic pancreatitis will have periods when they experience more severe, acute symptoms.
How do you diagnose pancreatitis in dogs?
If your dog has symptoms of pancreatitis, take him to the vet to determine next steps. During the diagnosis, you can expect:
- Test. An examination that includes palpation of the abdomen will be the first step in diagnosing your dog with pancreatitis. Your veterinarian will collect information about your dog’s diet, including changes in appetite, history, and frequency of vomiting. Before your exam, make a note of these changes, so that you are ready to present them during the examination. This timeline can help expedite your dog’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Bloody work. Because the signs of pancreatitis are often non-specific, your veterinarian can conduct specific blood tests, which can rely on a diagnosis of possible pancreatitis and rule out medical conditions. other and contributing factors.
Pancreatic Lipase Immunity Enhancement (PLI) is the most sensitive laboratory test for dogs with pancreatitis because it assesses the level of lipase in the blood. During pancreatitis, normal lipase levels are significantly increased. Although PLI lab tests are highly specific, results will take longer to arrive than alternative home tests, which becomes important when treating dogs. ill.
- Stomach supersonic. One stomach supersonic is a noninvasive diagnostic test for the evaluation of organs and structures within the abdomen. This test has about 40-70% sensitivity for pancreatitis to reach a definitive diagnosis. An ultrasound excludes unrelated medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s symptoms as well as pancreatic tumors.
- Biopsy. If a tumor of the pancreas is found, it may need to be removed for testing. Biopsy is the most invasive diagnostic test and may be contraindicated (not suggested) for critically ill patients. Discuss the details with your veterinarian and consider a second opinion.
What should my dog eat if he has pancreatitis?
Dietary therapy is the most important component to preventing and managing both acute and chronic pancreatitis, and it begins with the adoption of a low-fat diet.
For acute pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be an important part of your dog’s temporary treatment plan. For chronic pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be a permanent change.
Such dietary changes may include the following:
- Low-fat prescription commercial diets. These diets will require a veterinarian’s prescription. Examples of low-fat diets for dogs include:
- Royal Canin Veterinary Medicine Digestive Diet
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diet Gastroenteric
- Hills . Prescription Veterinary Care ID
- Commercial low-fat diet. Most popular commercial dog diets include low-fat options. Discuss these options with your veterinarian prior to use. Some examples include:
- Wellness Core Fat Loss
- Protecting the life of Green Buffalo Healthy weight
- Canidae Pure Healthy Weight
- Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight
- Low-fat dishes. There are many low-fat commercial and prescription dishes available. Avoid leftovers or high-fat snacks like bone marrow and instead choose homemade treats, such as dehydrated fruits or vegetables. Examples include sweet potatoes, kale, green beans, carrots, and apples. Avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, and grapes.
- Homemade diet. Home cooking for dogs with pancreatitis is a great option because you have control over the ingredients and can make adjustments as needed. Use online resources like Balanceit.com You can create a home-cooked diet specifically for dogs with pancreatitis to provide the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Communicate with the people in your dog’s life. Provide guests, family members, pet sitters, veterinarians, trainers and grocers with safe, alternative treatments that can relieve pancreatitis symptoms . Environmental management, such as eliminating access to the trash and cleaning the kitchen to prevent counter-surfing, is also important.
Is there a holistic treatment for dogs with pancreatitis?
According to Dr. Angie Krause, holistic veterinarian and owner of Boulder Holistic VetThere are several holistic approaches that can assist your dog in overcoming the symptoms of pancreatitis.
Dr. Krause’s recommendations include:
- CBD Has natural anti-inflammatory properties and reduces nausea and pain. Start at the lowest end of the CBD dosing range (0.25mg/kg x 2 times/day). Find a reputable CBD product that doesn’t include additional ingredients. Dr. Krause uses Products of HempRx.
- While Dr. Krause recommends all dogs should probiotic quality, which is especially helpful for supporting the gut health of dogs with pancreatitis. Alternating probiotic strains may be beneficial. Dr. Krause uses Thorne Bacillus and RxBiotics during her training.
- Chinese Herbs. Certain Chinese herbs can relieve symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs. Find a Veterinarian practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine near you through Support website.
Dr. Krause recommends starting with one diet or supplement change at a time, to monitor results carefully.
What online resources are available for pancreatitis in dogs?
Pancreatitis can be an extremely stressful illness to manage and can leave you feeling depressed and isolated. Online resources, such as Dog with pancreatitis on Facebook, which has 5,000 members, connects you with other pet parents who are diagnosing pancreatitis in their dogs. These groups are a great way to expand you and your dog’s team while also supporting other pet parents.
Although pancreatitis is a very serious disease, many dogs who have experienced it will live long and happy lives! Because pancreatitis shares symptoms with many other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose. Advocacy for your dog and self-education will give your sick dog the voice he needs.
