Bloat – “Gastric Dilation Volvulus”

What is GDV?

Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, is when the stomach expands with air. This is a life threatening condition because the stomach can then twist (the Volvulus part of GDV) causing both the entrance and exit of the stomach to become blocked, obstructing blood flow and normal digestive traffic. The bloated stomach also puts pressure on other organs and compresses the blood supply causing systemic shock. Once the stomach has twisted, emergency surgery is the only option to correct it.

Radiograph (x-ray) showing a gas filled and twisted stomach.

What causes it?

Unfortunately, the exact cause of GDV is currently unknown; however, some factors may increase the risk. Statistically, large breed dogs with deep chests are the most likely to develop GDV. Common breeds that present with GDV include: Great Danes, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, Setters, Standard Poodles and German Shepherds. It must be noted that any breed has the potential to develop GDV. Other environmental factors that are said to contribute to the condition include: drinking large quantities of water and ingest their food rapidly, and exercising prior to or soon after eating. The dog ingests or gulps down more air than is normal, possibly causing bloat to occur.  Despite extensive research, no specific recommendations for lifestyle changes have been made to decrease the risk in dogs.

What can I do to prevent it?

Any breed can be affected, but Great Danes and other deep chested dogs are more prone to developing GDV.

A surgical procedure called a gastropexy is one way to help increase your pet’s chances of surviving bloat. The procedure involves tacking the stomach to the abdominal wall. This will not prevent the stomach from bloating, but it may prevent the stomach from twisting.  A pet that has had a gastropexy surgery still needs immediate veterinary care if it bloats.

The most important thing is recognizing the symptoms in the early stages of GDV. Time is of the essence and veterinary care is required immediately.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Lethargy


• Restlessness


• Unproductive retching/heaving


• Bloated abdominal appearance


• Heavy panting


• Pale gums or mucous membranes

If you suspect your dog is bloating, call SWVH immediately or the Animal Emergency Clinic after hours or on the weekends. For more information on GDV or a gastropexy procedure, please feel free to contact us!

Bloat -- Gastric Dilation Volvulus/Gastric Torsion

Earlier this week Isabel, who was recently adopted from us by a wonderful family, bloated with torsion. Thanks to the fast action of her adoptive family who recognized her symptoms and got her to an emergency clinic, Isabel survived. She underwent emergency surgery to untwist her stomach, and also had her stomach tacked to reduce the risk of torsion in the future. She spent a few days in hospital and is now home recovering with her family.

Due to their size and deep chests Newfs are at risk of developing bloat, a condition that can kill within a very short period. If you suspect your Newf is bloating rush to the closest vet immediately.

Here is a chart of bloat symptoms (click the image to see the large size file.) Learn to recognize the early signs of bloat, and if you suspect your Newf is bloating get emergency veterinary help immediately. All dogs display different symptoms, so if your Newf seems uncomfortable and is acting strangely it is better to be safe than sorry and get to a vet.

One useful tip to help your dog expel excess gas if you suspect bloat is to massage the acupressure point for bloat which helps to stimulate burping. This is not a replacement to seeking immediate veterinary care, but can be done while on your way to the vet.

Dietary risk factors for bloat include:

• Drinking large amounts of water immediately after eating


• Eating a single, large meal daily


• Eating from a raised feeding bowl
  
  


• Exercising vigorously on a full stomach


• Gulping down food very quickly
  
  

Bloat has been associated with increasing age and having a first-degree relative with a history of Bloat.

To learn more about Bloat – Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) and Gastric Torsion visit this article and this FAQ document

gastric dilation volvulus dogs | Disease Pictures

gastric dilatation-volvulus (gdv) is a range of conditions of varying clinical severity.

bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus (gdv), is a serious health risk for many dogs, but few know anything about it.

bloat is the common term for gastric dilation-torsion complex.

gastric dilation .volvulus (gdv) is a condition in dogs in which the stomach greatly enlarges .then twists on itself.

underst.ng bloat or gastric dilation volvulus in dogs.