Pancreatitis

I have been meaning to post about Pancreatitis and have neglected to do so. This is something I feel is especially important for all those whose epi-pups are on meds to know about. Unfortunately Pancreatitis is more common in dogs who are on both Phenobarbital and Potassium Bromide. Being aware of the symptoms so you know what to do and are prepared is a very good idea. Symptoms are not necessarily cookie cutter, and can vary from dog to dog, so please keep that in mind as I post the symptoms.


Common symptoms are~

lack of appetite

diarrhea

vomiting

fever

abdominal pain

abdomen may be distended

Pancreatitis is when the pancreas leaks digestive enzymes and starts to essentially digest itself, thus causing inflammation of the pancreas. It is a painful condition, and if left untreated, the pain alone can cause an animal to go in shock and die.

The #1 thing NOT to do if you suspect your dog may be suffering from Pancreatitis, is to try to get them to eat. They are not eating because they know eating makes their condition worse. It is essential they go on a fast. Some even make the mistake of feeding extra fattening food in hopes of getting their dog to eat, which is the LAST thing you want to do. Call your vet right away, and she can do a blood test to help determine if your dog is suffering from Pancreatitis.

Wether or not your dog will need to stay at the vet will depend on how severe the Pancreatitis is and how far along it is. Your vet will tell you how to go about the fast, and what to do about seizure meds during this time and etc., etc.

I've no first hand experience with this, but my friend does, so I am going to link you to her blog, so you can read about her epi-pup's experience~ http://topazseizures.blogspot.com/search/label/pancreatitis