Understanding dog bloat

Dogs are valued members of many families, so when a dog falls ill, its owners want to do all they can to ensure their four-legged friend gets back on his feet as quickly as possible.

Bloat is one of the more dangerous health problems a dog can encounter. Affecting dogs in the prime of their lives, bloat can be life-threatening, especially if it isn't detected early on. Many dog owners have never heard of bloat and therefore won't be as likely to recognize its symptoms should their dog get sick. As a result, it's important for dog owners to understand bloat so their dogs, if afflicted, will have a stronger chance of survival.

What is bloat?

Two conditions fall under the umbrella of bloat, which occurs when a dog's stomach fills with air, fluid and/or food. Gastric dilatation is a type of bloat that occurs when the stomach distends with gas and fluid. Volvulus is another type of bloat in which the distended stomach rotates on its long axis. The spleen, which is attached to the wall of the stomach, rotates with the stomach.

What is gastric dilatation-volvulus?

Gastric dilatation-volvulus, or GDV, occurs when gastric dilatation is accompanied by volvulus. GDV is a potentially deadly condition that requires immediate medical care, as it can result in death in a matter of hours.

When GDV occurs, the plyorus is pulled out of position and is displaced to the left of a dog's gastroesophageal junction. As a result, fluid and air cannot escape the stomach via the plyoric canal, and the gastroesophageal junction becomes twisted and obstructed. This prevents the dog from belching or vomiting, and the stomach distends because it cannot emit gas or fluid. According to the ASPCA, even with immediate treatment, 25 to 40 percent of dogs will die after suffering from GDV.

What are the symptoms of bloat and GDV?

Restlessness and pacing are two of the more telltale signs of bloat, and dogs who whine or groan when their bellies are pressed might be suffering from bloat. In addition, because bloat and GDV can be so deadly so fast, dog owners should bring their dog to the veterinarian should any of the following symptoms appear.

* Distended abdomen

* Inability to belch or vomit

* Retching without producing anything

* Weakness

* Excessive salivation

* Shortness of breath

* Cold body temperature

* Pale gums

* Rapid heartbeat

* Collapse

A dog's abdomen will not necessarily be distended at the outset of bloat. When suffering through the early stages of bloat, a dog may be noticeably uncomfortable, lethargic and walk in a stiff-legged fashion while hanging its head. In such instances, the dog's abdomen might feel tight to the touch.

Are certain breeds more susceptible to bloat and GDV?

Bloat and GDV can occur to any dog regardless of the animal's age, but they are typically found in dogs that are middle-aged or older. Large, deep-chested breeds are most susceptible to GDV. These dogs have long chests (from backbone to sternum) instead of wide chests. Such breeds include the St. Bernard, Great Dane, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Old English Sheepdog, Akita, and Weimaraner, among others. Concerned dog owners should consult their dog's veterinarian to discuss the animal's risk of bloat and GDV.

What causes bloat?

While the causes of bloat are unknown, risk factors include rapid eating, eating one large meal daily, eating a diet of just dry food, overeating, overdrinking, stress, fearful temperament, and trauma. Bloat can suddenly develop in dogs who exercise vigorously before or after eating or in dogs who drink a large amount of water immediately after eating.

What causes GDV?

The ASPCA notes that the cause of GDV is unknown.

How is bloat treated?

Treatment of bloat depends on the dog's condition. A doctor may take an X-ray of the abdomen to assess the position of the dog's stomach. The doctor may try to decompress the stomach to relieve pressure from gas and fluid by inserting a tube down the esophagus.

How is GDV treated?

If a dog's stomach has rotated, the veterinarian will perform emergency surgery. Complications, including infection, shock and possible heart damage, can result from surgery, so the dog will be monitored for several days after surgery.

Can bloat and GDV be prevented?

Dog owners hoping to prevent bloat and GDV can take several preventive measures to reduce their dog's risk.

* Feed the dog several small meals instead of one large one.

* Discuss the dog's diet with a veterinarian and, if recommended, feed the dog wet food (such as canned dog food) in addition to dry food.

* When feeding the dog, avoid using raised bowls unless otherwise suggested by the veterinarian.

* Limit rigorous exercise before and after meals.

More information about bloat can be found at www.aspca.org.