Natural Dog Pancreatitis Remedies

Natural dog pancreatitis remedies (such as herbs, vitamins, and other natural supplements), together with a low-fat diet and plenty of exercise, can be effective in preventing and speeding up the recovery of pancreatitis in dogs.

Our page on Pancreatitis in Dogs focuses on the causes, symptoms and conventional treatment of this dog health problem.

This page takes a closer look at the kind of diet that is appropriate for dogs with pancreatitis, as well as some natural dog pancreatitis remedies that can be used to support and strengthen the dog's pancreas, liver and immune system.

Diet for Dog Pancreatitis

If your dog has pancreatitis, or is prone to develop this health problem, you should put him on a low-fat diet. Fat and protein in foods stimulate the pancreas to release digestive enzymes. To avoid putting a heavy burden on your dog's pancreas, minimize the intake of vegetable oils, butter, and all other fatty foods.

The pancreas also produces insulin. Diabetic dogs tend to be prone to pancreatitis, whereas pancreatitis can also lead to diabetes. It is therefore advisable to pay attention to the amount of sugar intake as well. Avoid high glycemic vegetables (such as pumpkin, fresh corn, parsnips), fruits, honey and grains (except rice).

Simple and bland meals such as boiled chicken with rice or potato, no-fat cottage cheese, turkey baby food, etc. are good choices. Low glycemic vegetables such as grated cabbage and broccoli (uncooked) can be given in small portions.

Kibbles usually do not contain enough natural digestive enzymes and so your dog's body will have to work extra hard to produce the enzymes for food digestion. If you cannot cook for your dog every day, at least consider feeding him a high-quality, all-natural dog food.

As well, feed your dog small portions (of both food and water) throughout the day to put less strain on the pancreas. Food should be given at room temperature for best digestive action.

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Dog Pancreatitis Remedies - Supplements

Digestive Enzymes

Many veterinarians suggest giving a dog with pancreatitis supplements of digestive enzymes to give the pancreas a break, making the dog pancreatitis flare-up easier to control.

Probiotics

Probiotics are the good friendly bacteria that are necessary for a healthy and balanced intestinal tract. The bacteria also aid digestion.

Vitamins

Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that can reduce the frequency and severity of dog pancreatitits flare-ups. The vitamins can also speed up recovery from the condition.

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Herbal Dog Pancreatitis Remedies

Herbs are best used to support the systemic organs related to pancreatic function at the onset of dog pancreatitis. In general, this will require tonic support of the liver and the digestive system.

Milk Thistle

One herb that supports and benefits the liver is Milk thistle. It is effective in regenerating and restoring normal function to the liver that is damaged as a result of infection, drugs, etc.

Yarrow

Yarrow strengthens the pancreas and helps to reduce pancreatic inflammation. It also improves blood circulation to the organ.

Dandelion / Burdock

Dandelion or burdock root can increase bile and enzyme production in the liver; therefore they can aid digestion and reduce stress on the pancreas.

Echinacea / Astragalus

Immune-boosting herbs such as echinacea or astragalus can be given to a dog with pancreatitis to strengthen the body, especially if bacterial infection is the trigger of the pancreatitis attack.

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Dog Pancreatitis Remedies - Products

Here are some natural products that are effective in strengthening a dog's pancreas and liver, as well as his immune system:

Animal Essentials Plant Enzymes & Probiotics

This wonderful product is all natural, and contains both plant enzymes and probiotics and can help break down fats, protein, carbohydrates, and cellulose. As a result, the product greatly helps in food digestion and nutrient absorption, thus relieving the extra burden placed on the pancreas and the digestive system.

Animals' Apawthecary Dandelion / Milk Thistle for Dogs and Cats

This herbal remedy contains milk thistle and dandelion and can stimulate and protect a dog's liver function.

Only Natural Pet Immune Strengthener for Dogs and Cats

This formula contains immune-boosting herbs (mushrooms and astragalus), as well as antioxidants (vitamins A, C and E, selenium, green tea extract). It is not only effective in promoting and maintaining a dog's overall health, but can also deal with all kinds of health issues, such as liver impairment and immune system stress.