Doggy Tummy Problems Or A Deadly Digestive Disease?

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(PET HEALTH) Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, can be a life-threatening disease in some dogs, but many dog guardians know little to nothing about it. With 8,000 dogs diagnosed in the U.S. each year, EPI is a generally uncommon disorder in which the pancreas fails to produce enough enzymes to properly digest dog food and absorb nutrients. Like humans with EPI, dogs suffering from the disease require an enzyme-rich dried pork pancreas in powder or capsule form to treat it. Given the hereditary component to the disease—being most common amongst German Shepherds—researchers are currently trying to determine the genetic cause for EPI while searching for better treatment options. Read on to further understand the symptoms of EPI and see how you can seek out help for your beloved pet. — Global Animal

Michele Daniels of Point Pleasant, N.J., with her dog, Jackie, now recovered from E.P.I., a digestive illness that researchers are seeking to better understand. Photo Credit: NY Times — Michele Daniels of Point Pleasant, N.J., with her dog, Jackie, now recovered from EPI, a digestive illness that researchers are seeking to better understand. Photo Credit: NY Times

Read the New York Times article here: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/20/as-dogs-waste-away-owners-seek-answers/

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