If your dog has ever experienced sudden vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy, you may have heard your veterinarian mention pancreatitis. This condition, which involves inflammation of the pancreas, has been appearing more frequently in dogs in recent years. One of the surprising culprits? Human food. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we often see cases where a seemingly innocent snack led to a very sick pup. Let’s explore why pancreatitis is on the rise and how you can keep your dog safe.
What exactly is pancreatitis?
The pancreas is a small but powerful organ near your dog’s stomach and intestines. It produces enzymes that help digest food and hormones like insulin that regulate blood sugar. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, these digestive enzymes activate too early, essentially beginning to “digest” the pancreas itself. This leads to pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes life-threatening complications.
Why cases are increasing
Over the past decade, veterinarians have noticed more dogs coming in with pancreatitis. While genetics and underlying health issues (like obesity or endocrine disease) can play a role, lifestyle factors are increasingly to blame. One of the biggest influences? The way we feed our pets.
Many owners love to share food from the table—sometimes intentionally, other times through accidental access. High-fat, greasy foods like bacon, chicken skin, gravy, fried items, and even buttery holiday treats can overwhelm a dog’s pancreas, triggering inflammation. With more families treating pets as “members of the family,” it’s no surprise that the rise in human food sharing has paralleled the rise in pancreatitis cases.
The link to human foods
Not all human foods are dangerous, but those rich in fat are the top offenders. Even small amounts of fatty scraps can set off pancreatitis in some dogs, especially breeds that are more prone (like Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels). Holiday seasons, birthday parties, and family gatherings often bring a spike in emergency visits because pets get access to rich foods they aren’t used to.
It’s important to note that a dog doesn’t need to eat a large portion to get sick. Sometimes a single slice of pizza crust dripping with cheese or a spoonful of gravy can be enough to cause problems.
Signs you shouldn’t ignore
Pancreatitis can range from mild to severe, but the early signs are often similar. Owners should watch for:
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Sudden loss of appetite
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Repeated vomiting (sometimes with foam or bile)
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Hunched posture or signs of abdominal pain
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Diarrhea (sometimes greasy-looking)
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Weakness or unusual lethargy
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Fever in more severe cases
Because pancreatitis can escalate quickly, even mild symptoms should prompt a call to your veterinarian.
What can help prevent pancreatitis
The good news is that there are simple steps to reduce the risk. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we recommend:
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Sticking to a high-quality, balanced pet diet rather than table scraps.
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Keeping fatty and greasy human foods completely out of reach.
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Watching your dog’s weight, since obesity increases risk.
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Being mindful during holidays or gatherings when foods are often left unattended.
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Talking to your vet about safe treat options if you want to spoil your dog.
For dogs with a history of pancreatitis, prevention is even more critical. Your veterinarian may recommend a prescription low-fat diet and regular check-ups to catch flare-ups early.
When to see your veterinarian
If your dog shows signs of abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or stops eating, it’s better to be cautious and seek veterinary care right away. Pancreatitis is treatable, but early intervention makes a huge difference in recovery.
At Norgate Animal Hospital, we’re here to help diagnose, treat, and guide you through managing pancreatitis, whether it’s your dog’s first episode or a recurring issue. By being proactive about diet and lifestyle, you can reduce the risks and keep your dog healthy and happy.
