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2013年9月28日星期六

What is dog bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus gdv

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or dog bloat or gastric torsion is a critical everyday living-threatening disease in dogs. Gastric dilatation-volvulus is the problem where the abdomen rotates on itself creating a twisting of the esophagus the place it enters the abdomen and the pylorus the place the stomach commonly empties into the intestines, therefore cutting down the capacity for things to get in or out of the abdomen. When twisted, the abdomen begins to distend with fuel turning into a large balloon inside the abdomen, top to impairment of blood movement in the body and to the tummy wall dying since of overdistention. Left untreated, virtually all dogs with GDV will die.


Dog bloat influences generally huge breed dogs with deep chests. Common breeds include the Great Dane, Doberman Pinscher, Weimaraner, Saint Bernard, German Shepherd dog, and Irish Setters. Why canine bloat takes place is not known. There are some predisposing factors that have been recognized these as working out following eating a large meal, elevated feeding, possessing a fearful temperament, and acquiring a parent or shut relative that had a GDV.


The traditional signs of bloat include nonproductive retching, hypersalivation, restlessness, and a progressively distending and tight abdomen. Diagnosis of GDV is created with radiographs. Radiographs taken with the dog laying on the right side present a classic “reverse-C” or “double bubble” sign which is the malpositioned pyloric area of the tummy sitting over the fundic area of the tummy.


Preliminary treatment method for dogs with GDV consists of fluid resuscitation to improve blood flow to the heart, and some form of decompression of the stomach, either by an orogastric tube or by trocharization of the abdomen. An orogastric tube is passing a tube from the mouth into the abdomen. This can be hard in an awake canine and with the belly severely dilated. Trocharization includes passing a significant sterile needle or catheter as a result of the abdominal wall into the abdomen to minimize the fuel within just the abdomen. Both equally of these are short-term strategies of relieving the stress create-up within just the stomach to make the puppy a lot more steady.


Surgical treatment is usually advised for dogs with gastric torsion. Surgery is essential to reposition the tummy and to pexy or permanently attach the stomach to the abdominal wall so that it can not twist once again. If a pexy is not performed, the possibility that the canine will bloat all over again is as large as eighty%. Following pexying the belly to the stomach wall, the probabilities of bloating yet again are a lot less than 10%.


In some circumstances, the stomach wall demonstrates places of necrosis or death. If spots of the stomach wall are not viable, then these portions need to be eliminated. When a gastric resection needs to be performed, the mortality charge connected with surgical treatment raises to all around sixty%.


Post-op dogs need to have to be monitored closely for arrhythmias which can come about inside the initial 24 hrs immediately after surgery. With gastric resection, other conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) are typical and possibly daily life-threatening. A majority of canines recover with no complications and as soon as they are eating, can go household, typically in 48 hrs of surgical procedure. Proprietors are instructed to feed smaller sized, several feedings somewhat than one big meal. Physical exercise is limited for two weeks even though the stomach incision heals then the canine can return to normal activity.


Prophylactic gastropexies are generally proposed for substantial chance breeds for dog bloat. These are at times done through spaying or neutering as puppies and can be done making use of a laparoscope to support the method so the incisions in the abdomen are kept to a minimal. Or if surgery into the abdomen is needed for one more purpose these kinds of as to get rid of an intestinal foreign entire body, a prophylactic gastropexy can be performed in the course of the very same surgical procedure.

What is “Bloat” in Dogs?

Hello Pup Friends,


I have come across many dog owners who are not aware of what bloat is in dogs.  I thought I would take this opportunity to explain this deadly health risk.  Unfortunately, one of my dogs, years ago, experienced this horror and I am so glad that our family knew about bloat.  We were able to get him to the vet immediately for emergency surgery.  Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is when the there is an “abnormal accumulation of air, fluid, and/or foam in the stomach (“gastric dilatation”).”  The best way it was explained to me was to think of the stomach as a balloon filling up with air and the end is twisted.  As it fills up and up and up, it has no place to go.  Eventually what will happen…it will burst.  If bloat occurs, a dog has very limited time.  If they do not get to the veterinarian immediately they will die.  I am going to continue to explain bloat, but I am going to quote a site I learned about many years ago.  They explained bloat very well and I feel it is best to use their words.  The site is indicated at the end of this post.


“The technical name for bloat is “Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus” (GDV).  Bloating of the stomach is often related to swallowed air (although food and fluid can also be present).  It usually happens when there’s an abnormal accumulation of air, fluid, and/or foam in the stomach (gastric dilatation).  Stress can be a significant contributing factor also.  Bloat can occur with or without “volvulus” (twisting).  As the stomach swells, it may rotate 90 to 360 degrees, twisting between its fixed attachments at the esophagus (food tube) and at the duodenum (the upper intestine).  The twisting stomach traps air, food, and water in the stomach.  The bloated stomach obstructs veins in the abdomen, leading to low blood pressure, shock, and damage to internal organs.  The combined effect can quickly kill a dog.”


Bloat tends to occur in dogs that have deep-chest cavities such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, Dobermans, and other breeds as well.  As I mentioned earlier, I had a dog, an Irish Setter, who experienced bloat.  There are some symptoms and warning signs that tell you that something “just isn’t right”.  If your dog is trying to vomit but can’t for a period of time, or is showing a lot of anxiety and discomfort, or if he/she is panting/drooling, or if he/she is just not acting like them self.  Maybe they decide to go and lay in a closet (and they never normally do that) – that was one of the things that my dog did.  Also, feel the stomach – if it feels tight, gas may be filling up the stomach.  There are many symptoms, but the bottom line is, if something doesn’t seem right, get your dog to the vet immediately – you may have just minutes.  We were fortunate enough to get to the vet in the middle of the night and have emergency surgery performed on our Bailey…and yes, he lived.  They removed the “bad” part of the intestine that was all twisted up and then tacked down his stomach so that it would not twist again.  The only future side effect from the surgery was burping and gas, but that was a small price to pay.


The possible causes of bloat could be related to stress, eating habits, exercise, heredity, physical characteristics, and disposition.  The site below list some possible causes that has helped me to better understand bloat and to help me approach feeding and exercise differently with my dogs today.  The site also indicates additional possible ways to prevent bloat and a list of breeds that tend to be affected.


After talking with veterinarians in the past, I have learned that there are different “schools of thought” regarding the causes and prevention of bloat.  There doesn’t seem to be a clear cut answer in this area; however, I feel that many of the items listed in this website can’t hurt and are worth incorporating into your daily routines/feeding/lifestyle.  If you have any questions, please consult your veterinarian.  This information is not meant to replace the advice from your vet.  If you feel that your dog may be experiencing bloat – get your dog to the vet immediately.  For more information on bloat, visit the following website:


  http://www.globalspan.net/bloat.htm


Any thoughts? Please comment below.


-Miss Paws


pawprints single

Friday"s Facts: Dogs & Bloat

So, little Oscar decided to give me a heart attack a few days ago! When I say this dog eats fast, I mean it! He eats as if it is his first, and last, meal. When I walk towards him with his bowl, he wiggles and shifts his weight from right to left foot. The second the bowl is down, food is going flying as he INHALES as fast as possible. It is really quite ridiculous, and I figure it is probably caused from the fear of not getting food, since he was malnourished as a pup?! Anyway, the usual occurred, however this time, he got about half way through and then started behaving oddly. He started walking around in circles, with a strange look on his face, and then all of a sudden foam was pouring out of the sides of his mouth! It was like he needed to throw up, but couldn’t. Of course, I thought his stomach twisted & he was about to die in front of me! Then, ALL of the food came back up. Whew! To say the least, it scared the heck out of me! Can you guess what today’s facts are about?!



ready for food!

ready for food!



2 things can happen to dogs: Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).


-Bloat is when the dog’s stomach fills with air, fluid and/or food. The enlarged stomach puts pressure on other organs, can cause difficulty breathing, and eventually may decrease blood supply to a dog’s vital organs.


-GDV is a life-threatening condition, also known as “twisted stomach”. This condition can cause rapid clinical signs and death in several hours. Even with immediate treatment, approximately 25% to 40% of dogs die from this medical emergency.


*If you suspect your dog has either of these, you should consult a vet immediately. Your dog’s life depends on it!


The info below is for both conditions, as bloat can lead to GDV:


Symptoms: Distended abdomen, unsuccessful attempts to belch or vomit, weakness, excessive salivation, shortness of breath, cold body temperature, pale gums, rapid heartbeat


Causes: The exact cause is unknown, though there are theories that it could be hereditary.


-Risk factors: rapid eating, overeating, overdrinking, heavy exercise after eating, fearful temperament, stress. Deep-chested dogs are at high risk, as well as underweight dogs. Usually bigger dogs are affected, but that is not to say that it doesn’t happen to small dogs.


Specific breeds at risk: Saint Bernards, Akitas, Irish Setters, Boxers, Basset Hounds, Great Danes, Weimaraners and German Shepherds. Dachshunds, who are also deep-chested, are at high risk, as well.


Treatment: Depending on your dog’s condition, a veterinarian may take an X-ray to see the position of the stomach. The vet may try to decompress the stomach and relieve gas and fluid pressure by inserting a tube down the esophagus. If the stomach has rotated, emergency surgery is necessary to correct this.


Prevention:


-Feed your dog several small meals, rather than one or two larger ones, throughout the day to avoid eating too much or too fast.


-If appropriate (check with your vet), include canned food in your dog’s diet.


-Maintain your dog’s appropriate weight.


-Encourage normal water consumption.


-Limit rigorous exercise before and after meals.


*If your dog is an inhaler like Oscar, I found some neat little tricks you can try!


-Put the food on a cookie sheet. This will make the food spread out & hard to get to.


-Place a ball or kong toy in the bowl. The dog will have to maneuver around the toy, which will slow him down. (Hopefully he doesn’t learn to just take the ball out though!)


-Purchase a slow feed bowl, which has an insert in the middle.


Bloat BowlspPETS-11178955dt


I purchased the green one above for Oscar, and it made a HUGE difference! He had to work to get the food, which slowed him down a lot. I have to say, I was a bit skeptical, but it really did work! I am so relieved that I can feed him now without worrying that he’s going to cause himself to choke, vomit, or worse!


So, there ya go! Hope you learned as much as I did! :) Happy Friday, from us to you!


008

How to Prevent Bloat in Dogs

Bloat, also called stomach torsion or twisted stomach, is when a dog’s stomach fills up with air making it difficult to breath–and if untreated–can kill within several hours. Bloat is the number two killer of dogs after cancer–yet many dog owners are not familiar with it. Although there is no definite way to prevent bloat–the following tips are recommended.


Instructions


    1

    Feed your dog two to three smaller meals a day, instead of one large meal.


    2


    Feed a diet that is mostly meat (high protein) and high in fiber with minimal amounts of grain and carbohydrates. Some vets recommend completely eliminating grain and carbs if your dog has ever experienced bloat before.


    3


    Try to get your dog to eat slower if she is gulping down her food, which may entail picking up her bowl a few times while she’s eating. Dogs that eat fast tend to swallow a lot of air, which can lead to bloat.


    4


    Do not allow your dog to drink a large amount of water after a meal. Ingesting a lot of water can cause gas and will also cause dry food to expand in the stomach.


    5


    Keep your dog from vigorous activity, especially rolling over, for at least two hours after a meal. Heavy activity increases the risk of stomach twist. A leisurely walk is better and can also aid digestion.











  • How to prevent BLOAT in your Dog Veterinary Secrets Blog


    www.theinternetpetvet.com/how-to-prevent-bloat-in-your-dog


    4 Responses to How to prevent BLOAT in your Dog Dianne MacLean Says: March 18th, 2008 at 10:16 am. The reason I should get your free course is that dogs are my …








  • How to Prevent Dog Bloat eHow


    www.ehow.com Pets Dogs Dog Health


    Dog bloat or gastric dilation happens when gas builds up in the stomach and cannot be expelled by belching or flatulence. If bloat is suspected, this is an acute …








  • How to Prevent Bloat in Dogs – Yahoo! Voices – voices.yahoo.com


    voices.yahoo.com/how-prevent-bloat-dogs-4191687.html


    Sep 03, 2009 What is bloat? How do dogs develop bloat? and How can I prevent it? These are all questions that are answered in this article.








  • Preventing Bloat in Dogs – Petfinder – Pet adoption: Want a dog


    www.petfinder.com/dogs/dog-health/dog-bloat-prevention


    You can reduce your dog’s chances of bloat by eliminating some of his risk factors. Find out how to eliminate risk factors of bloat here.







  • Natural ways to prevent bloat and what to do if you can’t …


    www.examiner.com/article/natural-ways-to-prevent-bloat-and-what-to…


    Feb 01, 2010 This is the first of a two-part article on bloat in dogs, how to help prevent it, what to do if you can’t and things to look for if you suspect your dog is …







  • How to Prevent Bloat in Dogs eHow


    www.ehow.com Pets Dogs Dog Health


    Bloat, also called stomach torsion or twisted stomach, is when a dog’s stomach fills up with air making it difficult to breath–and if untreated–can kill within …








  • How to prevent Bloat and GDV in dogs. Risk factors for GDV …


    www.vetlive.com/2010/11/13/bloat-and-gdv-prevention


    The risk of GDV in dogs can be decreased through preventative measures. Know the risks and the signs of GDV and Bloat.







  • A Vet’s Guide To Life: Preventing Bloat


    avetsguidetolife.blogspot.com/2011/02/preventing-bloat.html


    Feb 20, 2011 Stefanie asked a good question… What is the recommendation for feeding and exercising a dog – especially for deep-chested breeds that are prone to bloat?





2013年9月27日星期五

What Is Dog Bloat? | Dog Bloat

 


WARNING:  BLOAT IS A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY!  IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR DOG IS EXPERIENCING BLOAT-SEEK IMMEDIATE VETERINARY HELP!  



Bloat in dogs is known technically as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Bloat occurs when gas or fluid within the dog’s stomach is blocked.  This blockage leads to the dilatation or stretching of the stomach, which may be followed by the stomach twisting (volvulus).  The stomach may rotate 90-360°.




Effects of bloat and causes of mortality can include:




  • heart failure due to hypovelmic shock


  • endotoxic (septic) shock


  • respiratory failure


  • metabolic acidosis


  • alkalosis (kidneys unable to remove the body’s acid


  • reperfusion injury (tissue damage that occurs when blood supply returns to the tissue after a period of a lack of oxygen)






PictorialRepresentationofStomachTwist 300x144 What is Dog Bloat?

Stages of Dog’s Stomach Twisting






 

 

 





  1. “Acute Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus in Dogs” http://www.addl.purdue.edu/newsletters/2005/Summer/canine-acd.htm






  2. “Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)” http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jspcfile=htm/bc/23305.htm&word=%c2%93Gastric%2cDilatation-Volvulus%c2%94






 


Bloat In Dogs

bloat - The Dog Blog



Bloat: What It Is and What The Signs Are


Recently, I had a scare with my dog and thought she might have a case of bloat. The first dog I had as girl growing up, a GSD, passed away due to bloat so I know how sudden and seemingly out of nowhere it can appear. It happened when we left for a weekend road trip. We took off early in the morning and because she is prone to car sickness I opted not to feed her breakfast until after we arrived…


read more

All God"s Creatures: Important - MUST Watch Video on BLOAT ...

This video shows a dog in the middle to late middle stages of bloat …  it is priceless for its teaching value.


Important video on BLOAT in dogs.  A MUST watch for all dog owners … 95% of dogs die from bloat (stomach filling with air), due to not being brought to the Vet in time.


If you wait too long, the air-filled stomach can flip (torse) and cut off the blood supply … resulting in damage to the stomach wall, liver, spleen and heart muscle. It will then require very expensive surgery, and even if your dog survives the surgery, they may not survive the aftermath when the toxins from the dying tissue are released, causing heart arrhythmia and sepsis


We can write articles about bloat, and talk about bloat all day long, but until you actually experience it , it is very difficult to recognize.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words … hopefully this video will help someone save their dog’s life.


~ What Are The Symptoms?



  • Restlessness – Your dog will act anxious, agitated, uncomfortable, and unable to rest.

  • Loss of appetite – Your dog may not be interested in food and water.

  • Vomiting – Your dog may vomit once or twice followed by nonproductive retching and gagging (dry heaves).

  • Whining, crying, heavy panting, and salivation.

  • Swelling – An enlarged stomach will cause the body wall to protrude prominently, especially on the dog’s left side. The swelling will be very firm and obvious enough to see across the room. Occasionally, this distention is not very apparent. This occurs in dogs which have a large portion of the stomach up under the rib cage. In most cases, however, the owner is able to detect the distention.

  • Depression – A dog which experiences significant pain will be very depressed. Your dog may lie in what is commonly called a “praying position” with the front legs drawn fully forward.


If you see your dog exhibit any or all of the symptoms listed above, even if there is no swelling apparent yet, (sometimes there is no obvious swelling in the early stages; your dog just looks “fatter”) … PLEASE CALL YOUR VET AT ONCE FOR INSTRUCTIONS AND BE PREPARED TO TRANSPORT YOUR DOG IMMEDIATELY.


They can take an x-ray to determine if your dog is in the early stages and treat him immediately. If the vet refuses to take an x-ray, INSIST upon it. This is YOUR dog. YOU know him very well and if the vet still refuses to take an x-ray, go elsewhere. The earlier it is caught, the better your dog’s chances of living.


Death loss due to GDV (aka Bloat/Torsion) is very high.


Also, find out if there’s an emergency animal clinic near you – one that’s open during the time your regular veterinarian isn’t available. If there isn’t an emergency clinic near you, discuss your options with your regular vet. PLEASE, don’t assume your regular vet can and will treat your dog if torsion has occurred!!! Ask him or her if they’re familiar with GDV and ask how many times they’ve performed the surgery that may be needed to save your dog’s life!! If you’re not comfortable with the response, find a veterinarian that IS qualified to treat your dog!!


~ What Can Be Done As Prevention?


To avoid surgery after an occurrence of bloat, the following steps should be taken to minimize the risk factors for bloat:



  • Feed a high quality wholesome diet with appropriate supplements.

  • Feed several smaller meals rather than one large one.

  • If you have more than one dog make sure that they are calm (to minimize swallowing air) during meals. You may have to feed them separately.

  • DO NOT use a raised food bowl. Many studies, including one by Purdue University (http://www.vet.purdue.edu/epi/update2.htm), have found that using a raised food bowl INCREASES the risk of bloat by 110%.

  • If your dog is a fast eater and quickly gulps down their kibble, we would also recommend using a “Brake-Fast or Eat-Slow” type bowl or place a large (too big to swallow … i.e. softball size) stone in their feed bowl. Having to eat around the large stone will help slow them down a bit.

  • DO NOT feed your dogs 1 hour before, or after, vigorous play/exercise/activity … and avoid lots of twisting or rolling play, particularly shortly after feeding. (Walking is okay because it helps stimulate normal gastrointestinal function.)

  • Ensure water is always available, but limit the amount immediately after feeding.

  • Avoid sudden diet changes. Make any major dietary changes gradually over 7-10 days.

  • Prevent obesity.

  • Watch for any actions or behavior that may signal abdominal discomfort (abdominal fullness, pacing, salivating, whining, getting up and lying down, stretching, looking at abdomen, anxiety and unsuccessful attempts to vomit, etc.)


Also, studies suggest that “dogs having a first degree relative with a history of GDV (Bloat) should not be bred”.


Call your veterinarian or emergency clinic if you have any questions.

FYI – “This dog, Roscoe, was saved. He had just arrived in a new home … Neither the person who brought the dog to this foster home, nor the foster home, had ever seen bloat and had no idea of what they were seeing. As soon as they realized something was wrong, he was rushed to the emergency vet … The person filming this very kindly allowed it’s use as an educational tool so other people can learn to recognize what is happening when a dog bloats. A voice-over was done to point out the various symptoms of bloat to those who may not recognize or understand what they are seeing. This dog bloated, but did not have gastric torsion. His stomach filled with air, but luckily for him, he made it to the vet in enough time that he had not torsed [flipped]. They were able to deflate him and he is now home and doing well.” 


.

2013年9月26日星期四

Bloat In Dogs - Symptoms, Causes, Prevention






Symptoms     Causes     Prevention     Breeds at Risk     Links     Dogsitter Information



Please visit our new sister site, EPI in Dogs.  Knowing the symptoms could save your dog’s life.  If your dog has loose stools that just won’t get better, it could be EPI.



Bloat is a very serious health risk for many dogs, yet many dog owners know very little about it.  According to the links below, it is the second leading killer of dogs, after cancer.  It is frequently reported that deep-chested dogs, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Dobermans are particularly at risk.  This page provides links to information on bloat and summarizes some of the key points we found in the sites we researched.  Although we have summarized information we found about possible symptoms, causes, methods of prevention, and breeds at risk, we cannot attest to the accuracy.  Please consult with your veterinarian for medical information.   



If you believe your dog is experiencing bloat, please get your dog to a veterinarian immediately!  Bloat can kill in less than an hour, so time is of the essence.   Call your vet to alert them you’re on your way with a suspected bloat case.  Better to be safe than sorry!



The technical name for bloat is “Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus” (“GDV”).  Bloating of the stomach is often related to swallowed air (although food and fluid can also be present).  It usually happens when there’s an abnormal accumulation of air, fluid, and/or foam in the stomach (“gastric dilatation”).    Stress can be a significant contributing factor also.  Bloat can occur with or without “volvulus” (twisting).  As the stomach swells, it may rotate 90° to 360°, twisting between its fixed attachments at the esophagus (food tube) and at the duodenum (the upper intestine).  The twisting stomach traps air, food, and water in the stomach.  The bloated stomach obstructs veins in the abdomen, leading to low blood pressure, shock, and damage to internal organs.  The combined effect can quickly kill a dog.



Be prepared!  Know in advance what you would do if your dog bloated.













bulletIf your regular vet doesn’t have 24-hour emergency service, know which nearby vet you would use.  Keep the phone number handy.
bullet
Always keep a product with simethicone on hand (e.g., Mylanta Gas (not regular Mylanta), Gas-X, etc.) in case your dog has gas.  If you can reduce or slow the gas, you’ve probably bought yourself a little more time to get to a vet if your dog is bloating.



This information is not intended to replace advice or guidance from veterinarians or other pet care professionals.  It is simply being shared as an aid to assist you with your own research on this very serious problem.







Symptoms


Typical symptoms often include some (but not necessarily all) of the following, according to the links below.  Unfortunately, from the onset of the first symptoms you have very little time (sometimes minutes, sometimes hours) to get immediate medical attention for your dog.   Know your dog and know when it’s not acting right.
























































































































bullet
Attempts to vomit (usually unsuccessful); may occur every 5-30 minutes














bulletThis seems to be one of the most common symptoms & has been referred to as the “hallmark symptom”
bullet“Unsuccessful vomiting” means either nothing comes up or possibly just foam and/or mucous comes up 
bulletSome reports say that it can sound like a repeated cough   New


bullet
Doesn’t act like usual self










bulletPerhaps the earliest warning sign and may be the only sign that almost always occurs
bulletWe’ve had several reports that dogs who bloated asked to go outside in the middle of the night.  If this is combined with frequent attempts to vomit, and if your dog doesn’t typically ask to go outside in the middle of the night, bloat is a very real possibility.  


bulletSignificant anxiety and restlessness
One of the earliest warning signs and seems fairly typical
bullet“Hunched up” or “roached up” appearance
This seems to occur fairly frequently
bullet
Lack of normal gurgling and digestive sounds in the tummy










bulletMany dog owners report this after putting their ear to their dog’s tummy.
bulletIf your dog shows any bloat symptoms, you may want to try this immediately. 


bulletBloated abdomen that may feel tight (like a drum)
Despite the term “bloat,” many times this symptom never occurs or is not apparent
bulletPale or off-color gums
Dark red in early stages, none or blue in later stages
bulletCoughing
bulletUnproductive gagging
bulletHeavy salivating or drooling
bulletFoamy mucous around the lips, or vomiting foamy mucous
bulletUnproductive attempts to defecate
bulletWhining
bulletPacing
bulletLicking the air
bulletSeeking a hiding place
bulletLooking at their side or other evidence of abdominal pain or discomfort
bulletMay refuse to lie down or even sit down
bulletMay stand spread-legged
bulletMay curl up in a ball or go into a praying or crouched position
bulletMay attempt to eat small stones and twigs
bulletDrinking excessively
bulletHeavy or rapid panting
bulletShallow breathing
bulletCold mouth membranes
bulletApparent weakness; unable to stand or has a spread-legged stance
Especially in advanced stage
bulletAccelerated heartbeat
Heart rate increases as bloating progresses
bulletWeak pulse
bulletCollapse

Back to Top








Causes




According to the links below, it is thought that the following may be the primary contributors to bloat.  To calculate a dog’s lifetime risk of bloat according to Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, click here.





























bullet
Stress










bulletDog shows, mating, whelping, boarding, change in routine, new dog in household, etc.
Although purely anecdotal, we’ve heard of too many cases where a dog bloated after another dog (particularly a 3rd dog) was brought into the household; perhaps due to stress regarding pack order.  
bulletActivities that result in gulping air


bullet
Eating habits, especially…


































bulletElevated food bowls
bulletRapid eating
bulletEating dry foods that contain citric acid as a preservative (the risk is even worse if the owner moistens the food)
bulletEating dry foods that contain fat among the first four ingredients
bulletInsufficient pancreatic enzymes, such as Trypsin (a pancreatic enzyme present in meat)
Dogs with untreated Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) and/or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) generally produce more gas and thus are at greater risk 
 New
bulletDilution of gastric juices necessary for complete digestion by drinking too much water before or after eating
bulletEating gas-producing foods (especially soybean products, brewer’s yeast, and alfalfa) 
bulletDrinking too much water too quickly (can cause gulping of air)


bulletExercise before and especially after eating
bullet
Heredity










bulletEspecially having a first-degree relative who has bloated
bulletDogs who have untreated Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) are considered more prone to bloat  New
Gas is associated with incomplete digestion  
 


bullet
Build & Physical Characteristics






















bulletHaving a deep and narrow chest compared to other dogs of the same breed
bulletOlder dogs
bulletBig dogs
bulletMales
bulletBeing underweight


bullet
Disposition














bulletFearful or anxious temperament
bulletProne to stress
bulletHistory of aggression toward other dogs or people







Prevention


Some of the advice in the links below for reducing the chances of bloat are:


































































































bulletAvoid highly stressful situations.  If you can’t avoid them, try to minimize the stress as much as possible.  Be extra watchful.
Can be brought on by visits to the vet, dog shows, mating, whelping, boarding, new dog in household, change in routine, etc.
   Revised
bulletDo not use an elevated food bowl
bulletDo not exercise for at least an hour (longer if possible) before and especially after eating
Particularly avoid vigorous exercise and don’t permit your dog to roll over, which could cause the stomach to twist
bulletDo not permit rapid eating
bulletFeed 2 or 3 meals daily, instead of just one
bulletDo not give water one hour before or after a meal
It dilutes the gastric juices necessary for proper digestion, which leads to gas production.
bulletAlways keep a product with simethicone (e.g., Mylanta Gas (not regular Mylanta), Phazyme, Gas-X, etc.) on hand to treat gas symptoms.
Some recommend giving your dog simethicone immediately if your dog burps more than once or shows other signs of gas.  
Some report relief of gas symptoms with 1/2 tsp of nutmeg or the homeopathic remedy Nux moschata 30
bulletAllow access to fresh water at all times, except before and after meals
bulletMake meals a peaceful, stress-free time
bulletWhen switching dog food, do so gradually (allow several weeks)
bulletDo not feed dry food exclusively
bulletFeed a high-protein (>30%) diet, particularly of raw meat
bulletIf feeding dry food, avoid foods that contain fat as one of the first four ingredients  
bulletIf feeding dry foods, avoid foods that contain citric acid   
If you must use a dry food containing citric acid, do not pre-moisten the food
bulletIf feeding dry food, select one that includes rendered meat meal with bone product among the first four ingredients  
bulletReduce carbohydrates as much as possible (e.g., typical in many commercial dog biscuits)
bulletFeed a high-quality diet
Whole, unprocessed foods are especially beneficial
bulletFeed adequate amount of fiber (for commercial dog food, at least 3.00% crude fiber)
bulletAdd an enzyme product to food (e.g., Prozyme)
bulletInclude herbs specially mixed for pets that reduce gas (e.g., N.R. Special Blend)
bulletAvoid brewer’s yeast, alfalfa, and soybean products
bulletPromote an acidic environment in the intestine
Some recommend 1-2 Tbs of Aloe Vera Gel or 1 Tbs of apple cider vinegar given right after each meal
bulletPromote “friendly” bacteria in the intestine, e.g. from “probiotics” such as supplemental acidophilus
Avoids fermentation of carbohydrates, which can cause gas quickly.
This is especially a concern when antibiotics are given since antibiotics tend to reduce levels of “friendly” bacteria.  [Note: Probiotics should be given at least 2-4 hours apart from antibiotics so they won"t be destroyed.]
 New
bulletDon’t permit excessive, rapid drinking
Especially a consideration on hot days



And perhaps most importantly, know your dog well so you’ll know when your dog just isn’t acting normally.




 






Breeds At Greatest Risk


Breeds most at risk according to the links below:






























































































































































bulletAfghan Hound
bulletAiredale Terrier
bulletAkita
bulletAlaskan Malamute
bulletBasset Hound
bulletBernese Mountain Dog
bulletBorzoi
bulletBouvier des Flandres
bulletBoxer
bulletBullmastiff
bulletChesapeake Bay Retriever
bulletCollie
bulletDachshund
bulletDoberman Pinscher
bulletEnglish Springer Spaniel
bulletFila Brasileiro
bulletGolden Retriever
bulletGordon Setter
bulletGreat Dane
bulletGerman Shepherd
bulletGerman Shorthaired Pointer
bulletGreat Pyrenees
bulletIrish Setter
bulletIrish Wolfhound
bulletKing Shepherd
bulletLabrador Retriever
bulletMiniature Poodle
bulletNewfoundland
bulletOld English Sheepdog
bulletPekinese
bulletRottweiler
bulletSamoyed
bulletShiloh Shepherd
bulletSt. Bernard
bulletStandard Poodle
bulletWeimaraner
bulletWolfhound
bulletSighthouds
bulletBloodhounds

Source :Â