What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ which is located next to your dog’s stomach and small intestines. The pancreas produces insulin and other digestive enzymes.

Pancreatitis is usually very painful for your dog. If left untreated, pancreatitis may lead to further medical complications such as total body infection, organ failure and even death.

What will pancreatitis look like in my dog?
Symptoms of pancreatitis include a swollen and/or painful abdomen, vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever and weight loss. These symptoms often lead to dehydration. Sudden, severe cases or chronic, milder cases can trigger the development of diabetes mellitus.

How does my dog get pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis can be caused by various things, and it is also thought that sometimes genetics and poor nutrition play a role. First, fluids in the duodenum may “back up” into the pancreatic duct. Why this happens is often unknown, but the back-up can cause an inflammation of the pancreas. Second, certain medications can trigger pancreatitis. Medications that have been implicated in causing pancreatitis include trimethoprim-sulfa (an antibiotic) and chemotherapy medications such as L-asparginase and azathioprine. Third, toxicity, such as chocolate intoxication and macadamia nut ingestion, can cause pancreatitis. Fourth, metabolic abnormalities such as hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism and  diabetes mellitus can cause pancreatitis. Fifth, trauma to the pancreas, such as during a surgery or blunt trauma such as being hit by a car, can cause pancreatitis to develop.

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?
Your vet will conduct a physical examination along with blood work, stool analysis, and urinalysis.  In some cases, your vet will perform a biopsy or use diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-rays or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis.

How is pancreatitis treated?
Most cases of pancreatitis require your dog to be hospitalized. Food and water will be withheld from your dog in order to allow the pancreas to rest and reduce inflammation. Then your dog will be put on a low-fat diet which will have to be given in small quantities several times each day. If your dog is dehydrated, your vet will usually give your dog intravenous fluid therapy. Intravenous pain medications and sometimes antibiotics will also be administered to your dog to reduce discomfort and ward off any infections.

How is pancreatitis prevented?
A proper diet and prompt treatment of any existing conditions or diseases may help to prevent pancreatitis.

Can I get pancreatitis from my dog?
No, you cannot contract pancreatitis from your dog.