X-large dogs are prone to getting "Bloat"

What is bloat?

Bloat is a medical condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched by excessive gas content. Bloat is also called “GASTRIC DILATION”.Bloat can cause stomach torsion, also called gastric torsion, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), which is when the stomach is twisted. When gastric torsion occurs, your dog needs immediate surgery.

First of all, become familiar with your dog’s habits and conditions now – while the dog is healthy!

Signs and symptoms of bloat in dogs:

- Heavy salivating and/or heavy drooling
– Discomfort, “Dog looks uncomfortable”
– Dog has a “far away look” in its eyes
– Lack of the normal abdominal gurgling and digestive sounds (place ear on abdomen to listen)
– Attempts to vomit, but nothing comes up
– Attempts to vomit, but only foam, slimy drool or mucous is excreted
– Change in behavior, “Dog isn’t acting like usual self”
– Dog wanders off by itself
– Anxiety or restlessness, may be the form of pacing or whining
– A “hunched up” or “arched” appearance
– Abdominal area, or the area around the ribs may look bloated or bulged (may or may not be present)
– Abdominal area, or the area around the ribs may feel tight or expanded (may or may not be present)
– Coughing
– Gums are dark red, or even white or blue
– Shallow breathing in the form of heavy or rapid panting
– Dry heaving
– A drum-like sound when stomach is thumped

If you have a large breed dog you should always keep Extra Strength Gas-X (or a similar brand) on hand in the kitchen, in the car, in your dog first-aid kit, etc. Gas-X can be given to your dog while you are on your way to the emergency veterinarian. Capsules should be broken open and applied orally, so the liquid medicine is quickly absorbed by the dog. Don’t skimp on the Gas-X, as  it contains simethicone, a drug that goes down easily. Even if you give more than the recommended dosage in a suspected bloat situation, it won’t hurt your dog. It can save it’s life. Call you Veterinarian immediately!

Lastly, stay calm. At a time like this, your dog needs a calm pack leader. Stressing out will only make your dog’s condition worse. Keep your head, as your dog’s life is depending on your calm, cool and assertive energy. You can use pre-meditation techniques right now to think about the steps you will take in the event you suspect your dog is experiencing bloat.