canine bloat

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. Gastric bloating-volvulus (GDV) occurs when the stomach fills with gas and rotates 180 to 360 degrees on its axis between the esophagus and duodenum or the inlet and outlet parts of the stomach. Bloat is a very serious problem in large breed dogs. When combined with the complications of GDV, swelling is one of the leading causes of death for dogs, second only to cancer.

The exact cause of the swelling is still unknown. It is generally believed that excessive eating and drinking of water followed by exercise can cause bloating. It is believed that exercise causes food or liquids in the stomach to cause a buildup of gas. The severity of the conditions is most severe when the stomach rotates on itself within the abdomen in a clockwise rotation, causing the entry and exit of the stomach, as well as the blood vessels that supply 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

– try to vomit

– Excessive drooling

-Whine

– Pale gums

– Incrise of cardiac frecuency.

– Difficulty breathing

What causes the swelling?

The stomach fills up with gas and due to several possible factors; the dog cannot relieve the pressure. Bloating, with GDV, is when the stomach goes into a twist. This closes off both the esophagus and the pylorus, preventing the dog from relieving gas pressure that can build up quickly 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 the swelling is still unknown. Several factors appear to contribute to a dog’s chances of bloating.

– Stress

– Eating or drinking too fast.

– Exercising before and immediately after eating

– Have a large and deep chest.

– Elevated food bowls

-Hereditary

– Agreement

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 believed to have a higher genetic risk. Although bloat can occur in puppies, it is a condition that usually occurs in adult dogs. Also, male dogs are more likely to suffer from bloat than female dogs. Here is a list of some breeds that are more likely to be 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 immediately. Every second counts! If detected and diagnosed quickly enough, initial treatment will consist of inserting a tube or tapping into the stomach wall to remove 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 distension of the stomach.

Is there a way to prevent dog bloat?

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

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

– Do not use raised food bowls

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

– Add an enzymatic product to your dog’s food

– Keep emergency vet contact handy

– Gastropexy surgery

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