THANKSGIVING FOR DOGS?  A CARMEL VETERINARY CLINIC STORY ABOUT VOMITING AND PANCREATITIS

Thanksgiving is a time to get together with family and friends and be grateful for all the things that bring meaning to our lives.  Many people want to celebrate with their pets by giving them a special Thanksgiving treat to say thank you for their unconditional love.  What could a little mashed potatoes, turkey, and gravy harm?  Unfortunately this simple indulgence can sometimes cause great harm.  Although some dogs can tolerate this, these very high fat diets can cause a severe disease in dogs called pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that causes an acute onset of vomiting and abdominal pain.  This is due to the digestive enzymes of the pancreas being released onto the surrounding tissues.  Dogs often assume a prayer position (or play bow position) in an attempt to relieve the pain.  Pancreatitis is treatable but aggressive therapy and hospitalization is usually required.  So call your local Carmel veterinary clinic right away.

The exact reason some dogs develop pancreatitis is not well understood.  But having too much fat in the blood (or hyperlipidemia) is a contributing factor.  Miniature Schnauzers are genetically prone to this condition.  Overweight and obese dogs are more likely to develop pancreatitis as well.   But any dog fed a very high fatty meal can potentially develop this painful disease.  So keep the fatty food away from your dog and save yourself a trip to your Carmel veterinary clinic this holiday season.  For more information on our Caring Hands, Compassionate Hearts click on this link Carmel Veterinary Clinic.