The PancreasLocation: The pancreas can be found across the back of the dog's abdomen, behind the stomach. It is the elongated, tapered organ.
Enzymatic and hormonal secretions: The pancreas has both digestive and hormonal functions and is made up of two types of glands. The exocrine gland which secretes digestive enzymes into a network of ducts that join onto the main pancreatic duct, and the endocrine gland which consists of the islets of Langerhans and secretes hormones into the bloodstream. Importance in the digestive system: The pancreas is very important in the digestive system. The enzymes which are secreted by the exocrine glands aid the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and acids in the duodenum. The exocrine tissue also secretes a bicarbonate that neutralizes stomach acid in the duodenum. The hormones that are the secreted by the endocrine gland in the pancreas are glucagon, insulin and somatostatin. Glucagon regulates the glucose level in the body and somatostatin prevents the release of the other two hormones. |
The LiverLocation: The liver can be found in the upper right-hand portion of the abdominal cavity and under the diaphragm of the dog. It is the cone shaped organ which is dark reddish-brown.
Bile secretions: The liver secretes bile which helps to carry away any waste products from the liver. After harmful products have been broken down they are excreted into the bile to then be transported into the intestine to leave the body. Importance in the digestive system: The liver helps to regulate most of the chemical levels within the blood and excretes bile. Any blood leaving the stomach and intestines passes through the liver. The liver then processes this blood and breaks down the nutrients and drugs into forms that are easier for the rest of our body to use. After the liver has broken down any harmful substances its by products are excreted into the bile or blood. By products in the bile enter the intestine and leave the body through faeces. From the blood they are filtered out by the kidneys and excreted from the body via urine. |