Canine Bloat or GVD, Gastric Volvulus and Dilation, is a condition which affects large breed dogs such as Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Standard Poodles, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and other large breeds with deep, narrow chests. Dogs that are nervous, anxious, or fearful appear to be at greater risk of developing GVD. Males are twice as likely than females to develop the disease, and older dogs over the age of 7 are more susceptible than younger dogs. GDV is an extremely serious emergency when it occurs, and dogs can die withing hours if not treated. Even with treatment 25%-30% of dogs with GDV die.

This disease starts out with the dilation of the stomach with food, water or air due to excessive swallowing. This is followed by the volvulus or twisting of the stomach in a clockwise direction as it becomes distended. Once this rotation occurs the blood supply is cut off, the stomach begins to die and the blood supply is disrupted. The animal’s condition will deteriorate very rapidly. GDV is a very serious and life threatening condition. Recognizing the signs, prevention, and need for prompt treatment will help save your dog if it develps this problem.

A swollen belly and nonproductive vomiting are the most obvious signs. Restlessness, rapid breathing, and/or salivation are additional signs. If the dog’s condition continues to deteriorate, it may go into shock and become pale, have a weak pulse and rapid heart rate and will eventually collapse.

Treatment begins with IV fluids to help reverse shock. A sedative is given and a tube is inserted into the stomach if possible, or a large needle is passed through the side into the stomach to release the gas. Once the dog is stabilized, and x-rays confirm rotation of the stomach, then surgery is performed to inspect internal damage.

Gastropexy is performed during this surgery to prevent the stomach from twisting again. In studies of dogs treated for bloat, of those with gastropexy only 4.3% had a re-ocurrence of bloat compared to 54.5% of dogs without the gastropexy. Dogs with a high probability of developing bloat should be considered candidates for the minimally invasive Laproscopically assisted gastropexy. This surgery can be done as early as 6 months and is less expensive than treating bloat.

Recommendations for preventing bloat are:

• Large dogs should be fed 2-3 times a day rather than once a day
• Be aware of the early signs
• Water should be available at all times, but limited after feeding
• Vigorous excercise should be avoided one hour before and two hours after feeding
• Diet changes should be made gradually
• Feed dogs individually

For additional information on GDV see:

What is Bloat

Minimally Invasive Gastropexy – a preventative procedure