Dog pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas, can develop in canines for many reasons. It may be caused by high amounts of calcium in the blood, high amounts of lipids in the blood or by medications, obesity, high fat diets, previous stomach surgeries or infections. Middle-aged canines seem to develop pancreatitis more often than younger dogs and Yorkshire terriers and Schnauzers are more prone to develop the condition than other breeds.
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Pancreatic Rest
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Prohibiting water and food intake for a minimum of 24 hours is one of the treatments of pancreatitis, especially if a dog is vomiting. This lack of intake allows the pancreas to rest so it is not producing digestive enzymes. Over the course of a week to ten days, the amount of food that a dog can have at mealtimes is increased.
Fluid Therapy
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Electrolyte imbalance and dehydration is common with canines that have pancreatitis, especially when the pancreas is rested and water consumption is not allowed. Dogs with pancreatitis need to undergo fluid therapy that is administered at a veterinarian's office or animal hospital. The fluid therapy can be given intravenously or subcutaneously.
Special Diet
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Dogs that have pancreatitis often have to stay on a special diet prescribed by the veterinarian for life. In some cases, the former diet can presumed in small portions. However, no high fat foods or treats will be allowed.
Medications
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Antibiotics are often given to dogs with pancreatitis to help protect them against infection. Pain relievers such as butorphanol and meperidine are often prescribed if a dog is showing signs of pain.
Surgery
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If a dog develops pancreatic abscesses or has severe intestinal complications due to pancreatitis, surgery may be required. However, this is generally rare.
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