Carbohydrates Cause Pancreatitis In Dogs
I lost a dog to pancreatitis many years ago. Long before I got into pet wellness and canine nutrition. But he’s forever in my heart, and his story may help me help you.
He got into discarded Fettuccine Alfredo while I was out of the house.
I beat myself up. I still get upset to this day when I think about it for more than a moment.
Not only did he have a major pancreatic emergency, I believe the vets also failed in their efforts by drowning him in too much hydration. (Long story -- but broken hearted)
For many years, I believed the issue was fat that was the cause of concern when it comes to the pancreas.
We hear the term "fats" and we start to believe all fats are bad for our dogs. So much so that many people eliminate fats from the diet when they start to do a home-prepared food recipe. And many people question me when I start to suggest we actually need fats in the diet -- and choose 80/20 hamburger or even grass-fed butter to add diet like fish or venison that doesn't have much fat.
What I have since learned and what I want to share with you as food for thought is
Your dog needs fats in his diet for health
Uncooked animals fats do NOT present the same risk to pancreatic health
Rendered fats, Old fats, and rancid fats are far more difficult to process and the body floods the pancreas with enzymes and may create a significant flair up (Rendered fats are sprayed on your dog's kibble after cooking process to add flavor and will meet fat requirements for AAFCO -- it's not good fat)
Healthy fats like Coconut Oil will not overtax the pancreatic enzymes
Carbohydrates Increase Pancreatitis Risk
But did you also know that high carbohydrate diets can also create trouble for the pancreas? I've been seeing diets as high as 50% or more carbs when reviewing my client's kibble with them. The pancreas will flood enzymes into the pancreas to process sugar, similar to the way it processes rendered fats.
Doing this day after day, year after year is going to burden your dog's body and ability to keep pace. Consider this in addition to the treats you're giving, dental chews, the leftover items you share with your dog, etc -- and most of us should be looking to make a few changes.
So my little dog -- got a double whammy on top of what at the time was mediocre diet at best. Little did I know at the time. And I really still feel horrible about it. Which is why I try to educate all of you.
Take some time today to evaluate your food and look for ways to start making the change to include whole-food nutrition for your dogs. We can do it budget-friendly. I can help.
Feed fresh-- it's worth it!
See Blog Post For More Information on Dogs With Pancreatitis And my Guide on Supporting Dogs With Pancreatitis Naturally