How to Recognize and Treat Pancreatitis in Dogs

Pancreatitis is an inflammation that causes the pancreas to digest itself. The cause of this disease isn’t well understood; however, obesity may be a risk factor. Miniature schnauzers tend to be at high risk for pancreatitis. Early treatment is important to your dog’s recovery from this disease. Here’s how to recognize and treat pancreatitis in dogs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Observe your dog’s symptoms. Dogs that are suffering from pancreatitis may experience vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite and become lethargic. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, you should seek an evaluation. Take note of your dog’s symptoms to discuss them with the vet.

2. Take your canine to the vet for diagnosis. Tests will be run to determine your dog’s medical issue. You can expect your vet to draw blood and order X-rays.

3. Mild cases may require the withholding of food and water. If your dog has a mild case of pancreatitis, your vet may recommend that she go without food and water for 1 to 2 days. This allows your dog to recover without causing further inflammation.

4. You may need to provide your pet with a bland diet once he is ready to begin taking food and water. This is easier on your dog’s body.

5. If your dog is suffering from an abscess of the pancreas, surgery may be required.

Tips & Warnings

• Foster a calm environment for healing. Once your dog begins to recover, provide a quite place for him to rest. Wash his bedding and favorite toys and give him a little extra attention to aid in his recovery.
• At the most severe stage, pancreatitis may be life-threatening, so preventing future cases of it is important. Provide your dog with regular exercise and a low-fat diet to help her control weight issues. Also, make sure to never feed her food from the table. This can be very hard of her body and contribute to future cases of pancreatitis.

Resources

• Pet Place
• Pet Education

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