Pancreatitis is a painful and potentially life threatening condition and requires veterinary attention as soon as possible.

The pancreas releases enzymes to help digestion. These enzymes usually don't start to work until they reach the small intestine but if a dog has pancreatitis, these enzymes become active as soon as they are released. This causes inflammation to the surrounding tissue and organs. In severe cases, the enzymes start to digest the pancreas itself causing extreme pain.

Knowing the signs can enable us to start treatment quickly and effectively and help reduce the severity of the condition.

Watch out for:

• Hunched back
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Appears uncomfortable or bloated in abdomen
• Diarrhoea
• Not wanting to eat

A high-fat diet is a major cause of pancreatitis, especially for a dog who gets a large helping of fatty food in one sitting (such as human left overs or a rich marrow bone).

Obesity, hypothyroidism, diabetes and certain medications or other toxins can also predispose a dog to pancreatitis. Some breeds such as miniature schnauzers are also more susceptible indicating there may be a genetic component. 

Treatment involves intensive fluid therapy, anti vomiting drugs, gastric rest and then reintroduction of a low fat food, often for life. A dog that has had a bout of pancreatitis is much more susceptible to repeat attacks in the future so diet management is essential.

We are always happy to answer any question you have about your pet's health. Ask us today.

Are you aware of some of the potential doggy dangers out there? We've compiled a quick list for you below.

This list is not complete and these are just a few of the hazards we find people forget about or are not aware of.

Grapes, sultanas and raisins: induce kidney failure in some dogs

Macadamia nuts: cause weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea

Avocados: lead to a stomach upset and the pip can also cause an obstruction if ingested

Onions, leeks, garlic and chives: ingestion leads to destruction of red blood cells

Chewing gum: contains Xylitol and this can cause weakness and seizures

Apricot, cherry and peach pips and apple seeds: contain cyanide and may cause poisoning

Corn on the cob: the corn might be digested, but the cob may lodge in the small intestine causing a blockage

Chocolate: you've probably heard this before, but remember chocolate is toxic to dogs and ingestion of just a small amount can be fatal - cooking chocolate and dark chocolate are the most dangerous

Rodent bait: can lead to blood clotting problems 3-14 days after ingestion

Snail bait: can cause seizures and even death 

Stockings, undies, socks: are all attractive to dogs and can cause a nasty intestinal obstruction

If you think your dog might have ingested something that's on this list you should seek veterinary advice immediately. 

Have you heard the term cone of shame?

Also known as the Elizabethan collar, buster collar or bucket, we commonly dress your pet up in one of these after surgery to prevent your pet getting to his wound or pulling out his sutures.

Unfortunately for shelter pets looking for a new home, those wearing cones are less likely to be adopted. That was until a clever lady came up with the idea to decorate the cones and call them cones of fame. This resulted in these dogs finding new forever homes!

Read more here.