There may be a slightly higher prevalence of this problem in female dogs but it does occur commonly in both sexes. Often, the family has just had a party or a big holiday meal when this disease strikes. This is not a disease that restricts itself to any particular scenario, though. It often occurs in patients that do not fit the typical profile and it has highly variable clinical signs. Any time a dog appears to be exhibiting signs of unexplained pain, pancreatitis must be considered.
Vomiting is common with pancreatitis.
Depression can be severe. Affected pets may seem restless or be reluctant to move, they may seem weak, irritable, have diarrhea or simply refuse to eat. When your vet examines your dog and suspects pancreatitis, she will look for abdominal pain that seems to be centered in the portion of the abdomen that is partially covered by the ribs. Dehydration is common in patients with pancreatitis. Rapid heart rate and rapid breathing are sometimes seen with pancreatitis.