How is Pancreatitis in Dogs Treated?
There are a couple of good treatment options for dogs that are diagnosed with
pancreatitis. The first course of action is to do what is necessary for them to
be free from the pain associated with it. The second course of action is to
control the fluids and the electrolytes that are out of balance. When both of
these things can be accomplished your dog will be healthier and able to live
longer in spite of the diagnosis of pancreatitis.
There are several different types of pain medications offered for helping when
your dog has pancreatitis. Meperidine, Fentanyl, and Morphine are the most
common ones that veterinarians offer. If your dog is severely ill due to the
pancreatitis they may require an IV that runs into their abdomen so that they
can get the relief they need from the pain. If your dog has to be given critical
care then this is likely the course of treatment that will be offered.
This type of fluid therapy can also help to regulate the amount of electrolytes
that are in the body. They need to be normal as does the potassium level. Making
sure a dog with pancreatitis stays well hydrated is extremely important and it
can help to speed up the recovery process. Some dogs that are very ill will need
to have plasma injected into their bodies. This will help with the disseminated
intravascular coagulation, known as DIC. This is a form of shock that can occur
when they have pancreatitis. It is very important to monitor fluids and to
replace those the body isn’t producing on their own.
There are very few dogs that will need to have antibiotic therapy for
pancreatitis. Some of them do require it though if their white blood cell count
is either very high or very low. If they have other types of infections in
addition to the pancreatitis then it may be helpful as well. Sometimes a dog
will need them just to stop vomiting so that they can benefit from the other
medications to treat this problem.
Some professionals will tell you to not give your dog anything to eat when
symptoms of pancreatitis are present. This isn’t a good practice to follow
though and one that can result in your dog being in pain, suffering, and of
course being hungry. With the right care by your veterinarian your dog can have
a good chance of fully recovering from pancreatitis. It is very important to
make sure plenty of fluids are given in order to offset the development of
dehydration.