Overcoming Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Dogs: Doggett’s Remarkable Recovery

When my Shih Tzu, Doggett, went from a healthy 7.5kg to a worrying 4kg, I knew something was seriously wrong. Over several months, I took him to numerous vets, searching for answers. Despite their best efforts, none could pinpoint the issue. It was heartbreaking to watch Doggett struggle—his energy was low, his stool was abnormal, and no matter what he ate (and he ate a lot more than usual), he seemed to waste away.

Finally, one vet diagnosed him with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas fails to produce the enzymes needed to digest food. This diagnosis was a turning point, and I want to share Doggett’s journey to help others who may be experiencing something similar with their dogs.


What is Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)?

EPI is a digestive disorder where a dog’s pancreas stops producing enough enzymes to break down food into nutrients. Without these enzymes, dogs can’t properly digest proteins, fats, or carbohydrates, leading to malnutrition and significant weight loss, even if they’re eating normally. Symptoms can include:

  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Increased appetite without weight gain
  • Foul-smelling or greasy stools

If your dog is displaying these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice and consider testing for EPI.


Doggett’s Turning Point: The Introduction of Creon

Once Doggett was diagnosed, the vet suggested we try Creon, an enzyme supplement available at most pharmacies. Creon capsules, though designed for humans, work effectively for dogs with EPI, providing the digestive enzymes Doggett needed to process his food.

Administering Creon offered a couple of options:

  1. Sprinkling the Capsule’s Contents: Open the capsule and sprinkle the enzymes onto wet food, ensuring the food is thoroughly mixed. This allows the enzymes to activate. However, it’s essential to serve the food immediately and avoid letting it sit for too long, as this can reduce the enzymes’ effectiveness.
  2. Hiding the Whole Capsule in Wet Food: Another method is to place the entire capsule in a portion of wet food. This is the method we opted for which avoids the mess and potential for irritation from direct contact with the powdered enzymes.

Important Watch-Outs When Using Creon

  • Proper Mixing: When you sprinkle the Creon, ensure the enzymes are evenly distributed in the food for consistency.
  • Sensitive Mouths: If sprinkling, some dogs may find the enzyme powder irritating if it comes into direct contact with their mouth.
  • Be sure to consult with a veterinarian before starting any treatment, including the use of Creon, for your pet’s health.

Doggett’s Recovery and Results

The transformation after starting Creon was nothing short of miraculous. Within weeks, Doggett’s diarrhea subsided, and his energy levels began to improve. Over the next several months, he steadily regained the weight he had lost, eventually returning to his healthy 7.5kg.

Beyond the physical changes, Doggett was finally happy again—his tail wagged, his eyes sparkled, and he was back to his playful, loving self – although hard to see his eyes in this photo as he was due for a groom!


Key Takeaways for Other Pet Owners

  • Trust Your Instincts: If your dog isn’t thriving, keep pushing for answers. Persistence paid off for Doggett.
  • Explore Treatment Options: Enzyme therapy like Creon can dramatically improve the quality of life for dogs with EPI.
  • Be Patient: Recovery takes time. It took months for Doggett to fully regain his weight, but every step forward was worth it.

A Message to Fellow Pet Owners

Doggett’s journey was a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. I hope that by sharing his story, I can help other dog owners who might be struggling with similar issues. If your pet is showing symptoms of EPI, don’t give up—answers and solutions are out there.

Have you had experience with EPI in your dog? I’d love to hear your story or answer any questions

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