IRISH BOXER DOG CLUB

GASTRIC DILATION/BLOAT

Bloating and twisting of a dog's stomach is a serious condition veterinarians call gastric dilation volvulus, or GDV. Overeating, especially in predisposed breeds, may cause GDV, but often there is no underlying cause, making this disease one that is baffling to veterinarians and to owners alike.Food is sometimes the cause of a dilated stomach, but often a dog's stomach will mysteriously dilate, or bloat, for no known reason. Either way, bloat is a medical emergency and you must seek veterinarian help immediately.Causes of BloatWhile the exact cause of GDV is unknown, a dog's anatomy is thought to play a significant role. Since the stomach of a dog is securely fixed only at one spot near the top, when the stomach is full or dilated, it can easily rotate on that one fixed axis. If this happens, not only is the stomach distension painful, but the blood vessels that feed the stomach are kinked and stretched as the stomach twists. With reduced circulation to the stomach, the lining of the stomach can die or be damaged enough to allow bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream.In addition, the distended stomach can put pressure on major veins, blocking blood flow back to the heart. Without the normal blood flow to the heart, blood pressure will plunge and a dog can easily go into shock. A dog's breed and age also play a role in GDV. "Deep-chested, large and medium sized breeds, are most commonly affected. GDV can occur in any age of dog, but more commonly it occurs in middle-aged to older dogs."Signs of BloatUpper abdominal area, primarily on the left side becomes distended (swollen). Unsuccessful attempts to vomit (dog may desperately try to eat grass to induce vomiting). Dog looks at stomach. Retching, excessive drooling, and foaming at the mouth. Rapid swallow breathing.Restlessness, anxiety, whining, crying, pacing, inability to get comfortable in any position.Gums may turn bluish or mud-coloured (critical stage)With all the complications associated with bloat, it's not surprising that mortality rates are very high with this disease. With GDV owners need to get the dog to a veterinarian immediately. Successful emergency treatment involves relieving the pressure within the stomach and treatment for shock. In most cases, treatment will also involve emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and "tack" it in place to prevent future occurrence of the stomach twisting.Precautionary Measures to Prevent BloatingDuring exercise, training, or work: Give water in small amounts to prevent thirst. After training: Give a minimal amount of water in a water dish. After 1 hour fill the water dish up and allow the dog to drink as needed. Before and after meals: Do not exercise the dog within 1 hour before and 2 hours after meals. Limit the amount of water for dogs who drink too much after eating. Soak food in warm water for 15-30 min. before feeding this allows the food to expand outside of the dog's stomach.