Rich foods from the holiday table can cause problems for pets, so resist the temptation to share

The holidays are all about food, family, and fun — and for many of us, that includes our pets, who tend to hover nearby hoping for a bite. While it may be hard to resist those pleading eyes, a few “harmless” leftovers can cause more than just an upset stomach.

Veterinarians say one of the most common holiday emergencies they see is pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes serious inflammation of the pancreas. (Although it can happen any time, the holidays are a prime season.)

The pancreas is a small organ tucked near the stomach that plays a big role in digestion and blood sugar control. When it’s working normally, it releases enzymes that help break down food. But sometimes those enzymes get activated too early, inside the pancreas itself, and begin digesting the organ from the inside out.