Avoiding Pancreatitis During the Holidays

‘Tis the season for family gatherings, gift giving, and food galore. Veterinarians know this is also the season for canine pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), a painful, potentially life-threatening condition most commonly caused by overindulgence in foods that are particularly rich or fatty. And what kitchen isn’t overflowing with such foods this time of year?

The pancreas is a delicate boomerang-shaped organ tucked up against the stomach. Its size is diminutive, but its actions are mighty! The pancreas provides the body with insulin and enzymes necessary for food digestion.

Following a meal, the pancreas releases digestive enzymes into the small intestine. When things go awry, these enzymes can activate within the pancreas itself — picture little Pac-Man creatures gobbling up cells. Ouch! Symptoms of pancreatitis vary from mild to life-threatening, and can include vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and low energy.

Causes of pancreatitis

Excess alcohol consumption is the most cause of pancreatitis in people. For dogs, it’s rich, fatty foods. Other potential causes of canine pancreatitis include steroid administration, hormonal imbalances, and inherited defects in fat metabolism.

Diagnosis

Short of performing a pancreatic biopsy (a risky procedure), diagnosing pancreatitis can be tricky. Veterinarians must rely on a combination of the following:

• A history of dietary indiscretion, vomiting, and lethargy.

• Presence of abdominal pain.

• Characteristic complete blood cell count (CBC) and blood chemistry abnormalities.

• A positive or elevated Spec cPL (specific canine pancreatic lipase) blood test.

• Abdominal ultrasound changes in and around the pancreas.

Treatment

There is no cure for pancreatitis. Much like a bruise, the inflammation must resolve on its own. This is best accomplished by allowing the pancreas to rest, which means fasting to prevent digestive enzyme secretion. Other treatments may include round-the-clock intravenous fluids, medications to control pain, vomiting, and stomach acid secretion, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infection or abscess formation.

If your dog is hospitalized, be sure to ask who will be supervising throughout the night. (Is it really a 24-hour care situation?)

Long-term treatment for pancreatitis involves feeding a low-fat or fat-free diet. This may be a lifelong recommendation, especially if your dog has been a repeat offender.

Prevention

How can you prevent pancreatitis during this food-oriented time of year? Avoid feeding holiday leftovers altogether (this would cause a canine mutiny in my household) or heed the following recommendations:

• If the food isn’t good for you, don’t feed it to your dog. For example, skinless turkey breast is fine, but without the mashed potatoes and gravy. Consider offering a bite of brisket, but no potato latkes and sour cream! Most dogs are so darned excited about getting a treat, they don’t care what it is, only that they’re getting it!

• Feed table food in limited quantities. Whether you give your dog a teaspoon or a tablespoon, guaranteed it will disappear in the same amount of time.

• Rely on your dog’s track record in terms of what foods are well tolerated.

Some people dream of sugar plum fairies and stress-free family gatherings. I dream of a holiday season that is free of pancreatitis!

Wishing you and your four-legged family members a joyous and healthy holiday season,

Dr. Nancy

drnancykay.com