Veterinarian Holly Nash of the Pet Education website states that pancreatitis is an inflammation of your dog's pancreas. Pancreatitis can occur for several reasons, including metabolic disorders, medication side effects, obesity and infections. If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from pancreatitis, get him to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this condition is serious.
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Pain
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Pain in the abdominal area is among the more common symptoms of canine pancreatitis. Your dog may shy away from being petted around her abdominal area or whimper or whine for no apparent reason.
Loss of Appetite
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Your dog may suffer from a loss of appetite because he's in so much pain or because he's suffering from nausea.
Unusual Bowel Movements
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Pancreatitis can cause your dog to have diarrhea or to pass unusual yellow or greasy-looking stools.
Behavioral Changes
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According to veterinarian Holly Nash, some dogs may become depressed while they're suffering from pancreatitis. Veterinarian Mike Richards of the Vet Info website adds that restlessness may be another symptom.
Vomiting
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Vomiting can occur in dogs with pancreatitis. The consistency, color and frequency may vary from dog to dog. According to veterinarian Mike Richards, some dogs with chronic pancreatitis may have continual bouts of vomiting.
Unusual Posture
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You may notice a change in your dog's posture as she tries to alleviate her pain. She may look hunched up when she's standing, and she may try to elevate her hind end when she's lying down.
Fever
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Since pancreatitis can occur because of an infection, it's not unusual for your dog to have a fever. The normal temperature for a healthy dog is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so higher temperatures indicate a fever.
Weakness
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The pancreas is an important part of the digestive system and aids in metabolizing sugar. Therefore, your dog may show signs of weakness because his body is unable to properly digest food.
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