Digestive upset in dogs can be caused by many things, from eating trash to serious conditions such as inflammation of the pancreas, also known as pancreatitis.

The pancreas produces insulin and digestive enzymes, so damage to this important organ can lead to big problems. Digestive juices can spill out of an inflamed pancreas, causing abdominal pain, vomiting and injury to surrounding tissues.

The exact cause for an attack is often a mystery, but pancreatitis is most common in heavy, middle-aged dogs. Although there is no miracle cure, withholding food and administering IV fluids allows the pancreas a chance to rest and heal before more damage is done.

To keep the problem from returning, feed a low-fat diet and make sure your dog gets enough exercise.