Pancreatitis in dogs is not uncommon and can be potentially life-threatening. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help you recognize the signs of canine pancreatitis.
*Please note: If you suspect your dog may have pancreatitis, it is vital you contact your veterinarian immediately.
What is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a small organ located on the right side of the abdomen adjacent to the stomach. It produces enzymes to assist in food digestion and hormones such as insulin, which regulates blood sugar and glucose metabolism. The digestive enzymes are secreted from the pancreas into the small intestine, and the hormones enter the bloodstream.
When the pancreas becomes inflamed, the condition is called pancreatitis. It can be either acute or chronic. Sometimes if a dog recovers from an acute episode of pancreatitis the dog may continue to have recurrent bouts of the disease, this is called chronic or relapsing pancreatitis.
What Causes Pancreatitis?
Experts aren’t sure what causes irritation of the pancreas, but some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and English Cocker Spaniels are more prone to it. Dogs who are older or overweight are also more like to get it.
Sometimes, the condition comes on as a side effect to a drug, or after surgery. More commonly, a fatty meal such as bacon grease or table scraps is the triggering factor.
Dogs can recover from a mild case of pancreatitis, but if it’s a severe case, it can be lethal.
Symptoms of Canine Pancreatitis
Typical symptoms of pancreatitis include:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
Other, less typical symptoms include:
- A fever or low body temperature
- Diarrhea
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Severe dehydration
- Collapse and shock
How is Pancreatitis in Dogs Diagnosed?
Pancreatitis can be difficult to identify because the symptoms can mimic other upset stomach issues. Also, routine blood tests are often not helpful.
However, there are specialized blood tests that can be ordered if a veterinarian suspects pancreatitis. Unfortunately, even these special tests are not 100 percent accurate.
Abdominal x-rays are also not helpful in diagnosing pancreatitis. However, it is important to take x-rays to rule out a potential foreign-body obstruction in the stomach or intestine.
The best method to diagnose the pancreas is an abdominal ultrasound. However, the pancreas has to be inflamed enough for the diseased tissue to show up on the ultrasound. For this reason, it is easier for a veterinarian to diagnose pancreatitis in dogs when it is acute and severe.
Treatment of Canine Pancreatitis
Treatment of canine pancreatitis is primarily supportive care whether the diagnosis is acute or chronic.
Acute Pancreatitis in Dogs
Dogs with severe, acute pancreatitis generally require more extensive medical intervention and treatment. This may include days, and maybe even weeks, of the following treatments:
- IV fluid and electrolytes
- Pain-control measures
- Anti-nausea medication(s)
- Medications
- Nutritional support (feeding tube)
- Antibiotics
Moderate to Mild Pancreatitis in Dogs
Most dogs with mild to moderate pancreatitis will require IV fluid therapy to correct dehydration. Sometimes, a veterinarian may also treat the dog with:
- Anti-nausea medication
- A stomach protectant
- Pain-reliever medication
- A bland, low-fat diet
A permanent diet change may be recommended, especially in pre-disposed breeds or dogs with a previous history of pancreatitis.
What is the Prognosis for Pancreatitis in Dogs?
The future prognosis for dogs with pancreatitis depends on the severity of the illness.
A dog with a severe, acute case of pancreatitis has a poor prognosis, possibly leading to a risk of death. In these types of acute cases, a severe whole-body inflammatory condition may occur, resulting in multiple organ failure.
Even a dog diagnosed with a mild case of pancreatitis may develop extensive scarring within the pancreas. This can lead to diabetes or a condition called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). EPI occurs with the pancreas can no longer produce a sufficient number of digestive enzymes.
Pancreatitis has many potential causes, and diagnosis can be challenging and complex. Furthermore, a dog’s response to treatment is often unpredictable. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for several weeks before the dog is stable enough to be discharged.
If you are concerned about your dog, or would like more information on this subject, please contact your veterinarian.
Carol norton says
My mini schnauzer shows signs of mild pancreatise…happy girl normal and next morning vomited up pieces of green beans and peas from her food. has been lethargic, won’t eat and no energy. Sleeps stretched out. She drinks water a lot when given her. Not able to get to the vet …no emergency clinic close by. What can I do to help her til I can get into see the vet? She’s not interested in food or even her favorite. She is 11 yrs . Has had digestive issues often over the years… but always a happy playful girl . This just happened 12 hrs ago.
Joelle Audette says
I’m so sorry your dog is not feeling well. Please call a local veterinary office for advice on what you should do. Canine Campus is a dog care facility; we do not have a veterinarian on staff and are unable to provide veterinary advice. I hope your dog is feeling better by now.