Gastric Dilatation Volvulus

What Exactly is Gastric Dilation and Volvulus in dogs and Why Should I be Concerned?

Commonly known as bloat, gastric-dilation and volvulus is a critical health condition that requires immediate medical attention. In most cases, we attribute the cause of this disease to excessive eating which causes large emission of gas in the stomach causing dilution. The situation is worsened when the animal is not able to expel gas or food, thus creating stomach dilution and eventually expansion due to the escalating pressure.

Repercussions

Delayed medical interventions to the gastric dilation and volvulus might lead to dire consequences including; difficulties in breathing due to the increased pressure on the lungs, little or no blood flow to stomach-linings, strained blood circulation between the heart and the abdomen and the fracture of the stomach wall in extreme cases. Some of the initial signs of possible bloating of your pet include; abdominal pain which tends to increase with time, dribbling, stressful look, regurgitating and unrest.

Treatment

We advise pet owners to take their animals to the nearest veterinarian for immediate examination and treatment, the moment they exhibit the signs as mentioned above. This is because it is easier to stabilize and perform appropriate treatments to the pet in the initial stages. In the veterinary stations, your pet will undergo the gastric decompression which is accomplished by rapid replacement. After the pet is stabilized, then surgical procedures follow to rectify the situation. Some of the initial signs of possible bloating of your pet include; abdominal pain which tends to increase with time, dribbling, stressful look, regurgitating and unrest.

Breeds prone to Gastric Dilation and Volvulus

Here is a list of given breeds of dogs that are vulnerable to this condition; Old English Sheepdog, German Shorthaired Pointer, Doberman Pinscher, Weimaraner, Great Dane, Irish Setter, Standard Poodle, German Shepherd, Newfoundland and Basset Hound

Prevention

The situation can be prevented more so in high-risk breeds, by giving your pet smaller meals and avoiding high grain meals. Additionally, ensure your pet gets enough time to rest right after meals to ease digestion.

Mercola, ACVS, Emergency Animal Care of Braselton