What Is Pancreatitis?
Canine Pancreatitis is a condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes swollen or inflamed. This inflammation is usually caused by an excess production of digestive fluids in the pancreas. These fluids subsequently begin to “digest” the pancreas, causing irritation, damage, and a significant amount of pain for your dog. Because of the nature of pancreatitis, and the possible long-term damage, it is important to treat this condition as early as possible.
Two Types Of Pancreatitis
There are two separate types of Pancreatitis. The first type is "acute" pancreatitis, which is a form of pancreatitis that does not leave lasting damage on the pancreas or surrounding organs.
Acute pancreatitis is usually severe, but can be treated with medical care.
The second type of pancreatitis is called "chronic" pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis is typically mild, but will frequently reoccur after being treated. Chronic pancreatitis can leave lasting damage on the pancreas and surrounding organs.
Classifications Of Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis can be further classified into two distinct degrees of intensity. The intensity of acute pancreatitis can be classified as mild, and this will not initially cause significant damage. The second type is a severe, hemorrhagic form of pancreatitis that can fatally damage surrounding organs by “digesting” them. The pancreas, however, is the first organ to be negatively affected by the leaked digestive fluid, and your dog will begin to exhibit visible symptoms when being affected by pancreatitis.
What Is The Pancreas?
The pancreas is an organ that is shaped like a "V", and is located near the liver. It is behind the stomach, and helps in many glandular functions. Since the pancreas is located behind the stomach, it is usually the first organ to be affected by leaking digestive fluids, which results in the inflammatory condition known as pancreatitis.
Why Is The Pancreas Important?
The pancreas performs many important functions to help your dog's body run properly. The pancreas is responsible for producing digestive enzymes that aid in proper digestion of food in the intestines.Without the pancreas functioning normally, these digestive enzymes are not produced in a sufficient quantity, or are not produced at all. The pancreas is also responsible for an important endocrine function: the production of insulin. Insulin is very important for controlling blood sugar levels, and in maintaining a healthy weight.
Next Article: Causes Of Pancreatitis In Dogs
