Functions of the Canine Pancreas
Why is it so important to know what the functions of the pancreas are? Well, the pancreas is a very important organ that does several things for the body to run smoothly. Due to diagnosis of diabetes, we know that the pancreas is not running at peak performance. Let’s take a look at what it does.
ENDOCRINE CELLS
Endocrine cells produce hormones that regulate blood sugar levels; insulin and glucagon.
When blood glucose levels increase, the pancreas releases insulin to bring down glucose. When BG is too low, the pancreas releases glucagon into the bloodstream, which tells the liver to dump stored sugars into the bloodstream. This is an amazing emergency response that the body has!
When the endocrine portion of the pancreas does not work properly, it does not produce insulin, this type of Diabetes Mellitus is called Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetics require insulin therapy to survive, which will necessitate home testing in between vet visits. Looking to get your dog the only painless diabetes monitoring system available? PetTest blog readers can save 30% off the PetTest Painless Glucose Monitoring System with promo code SPOOKYSAVINGS at checkout at ShopPetTest.com.
EXOCRINE CELLS
These cells produce digestive enzymes that break down foods in the small intestine for nutrient absorption.
- Amylase enzymes break down starches
- Protease enzymes break down proteins
- Lipase enzymes break down fats
When the pancreas is “faulty” dogs are more susceptible to other illnesses like pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas due to digestive enzymes activating in the pancreas. Pancreatitis is a very painful illness that requires vet intervention, medications, and a low-fat diet.
Processed fats (commercial dog foods) and high-fat human-grade foods tax the pancreas and can bring on bouts of pancreatitis, a low-fat diet is suggested for diabetic dogs. If your dog has pancreatitis, a diet of 10% maximum fat on a dry matter basis is recommended. If your dog has had pancreatitis, you should feed under 12% fat on a dry matter basis, and for dogs that have chronic pancreatitis diet under 10% fat on a dry matter basis should be fed.
How can we help take of the work off of the pancreas? Low-fat meals, healthy low-fat, low carb treats and digestive enzymes supplements help take the load off. Happy, healthy pups is our goal!
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