What is canine bloat?

Bloating refers to swelling of the stomach. Essentially it is a buildup of gas in the stomach that cannot be released. Bloat with gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) occurs when the stomach fills with gas and rotates 180 to 360 degrees on its axis between the esophagus and the duodenum or the entrance and exit parts of the stomach. Bloat is a very serious problem in large breed dogs. When combined with the complications of GDV, bloat is a leading cause of death for dogs, second only to cancer.

The exact cause of the swelling is still unknown. It is generally believed that eating and drinking too much water followed by exercise can cause bloating. Exercise is thought to cause food or liquids in the stomach to cause a buildup of gas. The severity of the conditions is most severe when the stomach twists on itself within the abdomen in a clockwise rotation, causing the inlet and outlet of the stomach, as well as the blood vessels supplying it the stomach, contract at both ends. As a result, the constriction will cause the stomach tissue to die. In a very short time, the stomach becomes deprived of nutrients and oxygen. If left untreated, the dog can die.

What are the symptoms of canine bloat?

– Anxious, restless

– distended abdomen

– Attempt to vomit

– excessive drooling

-Whine

– pale gums

– Incrise of cardiac frecuency.

– Difficulty breathing

What causes swelling?

The stomach fills with gas and due to various possible factors; the dog cannot relieve the pressure. Bloating, with GDV, is when the stomach goes into an Atwist. This closes off both the esophagus and pylorus, preventing the dog from relieving gas pressure that can quickly build up after a large meal. This condition is extremely fatal, causing shock, coma and eventually death. Like many other conditions that affect our dogs, the actual cause of bloat is still unknown. Several factors seem to contribute to a dog’s chances of bloating.

– Stress

– Eating or drinking too quickly.

– Exercise before and immediately after eating

– Have a large and deep chest.

– Elevated food bowls

-Hereditary

– fix

Are all dogs at risk for canine bloat?

Canine bloat and GDV usually only affect large breed dogs, but smaller dogs are still susceptible. Some breed lines are thought to have a higher genetic risk. Although bloat can occur in puppies, it is a condition that generally occurs in adult dogs. Also, male dogs are more likely to suffer from bloat than females. Here is a list of some breeds that have a higher chance of being affected by bloat and GDV.

-German shepherd

– Great Dane

-Standard Poodle

– rottweiler

-Akita

– bloodhound

– Great Pyrenees

– Irish Setter

-Old english shepherd

– boxers

– golden retriever

– Irish Wolfhound

– Saint Bernard

– Labrador Retrievers

-Newfoundland

-Gentleman

What is the treatment for dog bloat?

Canine bloat is a very serious problem. If you suspect your dog has bloat, contact your vet right away. Every second counts! If caught and diagnosed quickly enough, initial treatment will consist of inserting a tube or tapping into the stomach wall to remove the gas. If necessary, the vet will operate, trying to untwist the stomach. Secondary treatment will involve treating shock, dehydration, fatigue, and other complications that result from the distended stomach.

Is there any way to prevent dog bloat?

Preventing swelling can be difficult. Because there are so many possible causes for this condition, prevention must be examined on an individual basis. If you have a dog that is at risk, there are a couple of things you can do to lower your chances of this fatal condition. Since swelling is believed to be related to genetics and heredity, these preventive measures can only lessen the chances of swelling.

– Do not overfeed. Feed 2-3 small meals a day.

– Do not use elevated food bowls

– Do not allow your dog to drink large amounts of water after eating.

– Add an enzyme product to your dog’s food

– Keep emergency veterinary contact on hand

– Gastropexy surgery

This only provides BASIC information on canine bloat. Your veterinarian is always your best source of health information. Consult your veterinarian for more information on Canine Bloat and GDV and their prevention.