What More Can I Do?

If your dog does not respond well to the addition of the digestive enzymes, their diet may sometimes need to be altered. A highly digestible diet is an option. Such as adding a diet of triglycerides, is a fat source which does not require pancreatic enzymes to break them down.    

I highly recommend a product called Digestive Vitality. 

Digestive Vitality is a capsule formula designed to support gut, bowel and urinary tract function and health.

A combination of N-acetyl glucosamine, beneficial bacteria lactobacillus acidophilus, digestive enzymes, and alfafa, This product contains Proteolytic enzymes like pepsin, papain and bromelain that support digestion, nutrient absorption and utilization. N-acetyl glucosamine is naturally found in the glycoprotein layer of the mucous membrane. Through support of glycoprotein production, N-acetyl glucosamine supports the structural integrity and healthy function, meaning it supports the body’s natural protective barriers against invading microorganisms.

In addition to the prescribed pancreatic enzymes, Digestive Vitality is highly recommended for EPI patients because it will provide a healthier gut so that your dog will better be able to absorb the nutrients from the food it is consuming.

Multi vitamin supplements may be given. I recommend a multi vitamin containing Vitamin B12 and the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K to prevent vitamin deficiencies. A great multi vitamin is DVM Daily Soft Chews. DVM Daily Soft Chews® are formulated with an array of vitamins and nutrients to accompany a dog’s daily diet. Each soft chew is a palatable blend of 22 vitamins, minerals and dried fermentation extracts. Plus, antioxidants to help support a healthy lifestyle for dogs suffering from EPI.

In rare cases EPI is temporary:

I have seen pets suffer from pancreatic insufficiency that was only temporary and resolves in less than a year. Treatment was still necessary during these months, or death will occur. In these cases it is possible that the pancreatic insufficiency was caused by temporary inflammation of the pancreas and permanent damage was not caused.  Thus allowing the pancreas to produce the digestive enzymes once the inflammation is gone.