Speed Counts With Canine Bloat

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. It occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas and twists, causing severe abdominal pain and potentially cutting off blood flow.

Oz Animal Hospital knows that time is of the essence when responding to a case of bloat, yet we see a significant lack of awareness concerning the condition itself, including the signs and symptoms that announce its presence. With that in mind, we’ve put together the following blog to help pet parents respond swiftly when this deadly problem strikes.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Without treatment, bloat can kill a dog within hours. Knowing the symptoms is crucial for early detection and prompt action. Watch out for:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Restlessness or pacing
  • Distended abdomen
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Vomiting (may be unproductive)
  • Pale gums

If you notice these symptoms in your dog, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary attention immediately! The faster your dog receives veterinary care, the better their chances of survival.

Equipped for Bloat Emergencies

At Oz Animal Hospital, we have the necessary tools and expertise to handle bloat emergencies effectively.

  • Our on-site diagnostic capabilities, including X-ray machines, allow us to quickly confirm the diagnosis.
  • We can then start by releasing the pent-up gas and air within the stomach, which prevents the tissue from dying and reduces pressure on nearby organs.
  •  Sometimes, this can be achieved via a tube and stomach pump, but other times, surgery will be required.

Fortunately, our team of skilled veterinarians has the surgical experience needed:

  • They’ll make use of intravenous fluids to reverse shock and slow down the heart rate, which often means using powerful painkillers, medicine, and antibiotics to address loss of blood flow to the heart.
  • From there, stabilization is crucial, and ongoing treatment will be required to repair damage to the stomach.

Dogs who’ve already contracted bloat might be at greater risk for contracting it again, so we’ll sometimes perform and offer prophylactic gastropexy surgery, which is a procedure that attaches a dog’s stomach to its abdominal wall. Performed correctly, it can stop bloat/GDV from recurring.

Preventing Bloat

It’s not currently clear what the root causes of bloat truly are. That said, it’s generally agreed that:

  • Feeding small amounts frequently might reduce the odds of bloat.
  • Lower fat food can be a prudent choice.
  • Strenuous exercise after feeding should be avoided.
  • Rapid eating is a known risk factor for bloat; slow feeding bowls help with this.
  • Dogs that are overweight or seriously underweight are more vulnerable to bloat.
  • While any dog breed can be affected, large, deep-chested breeds like German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Dobermans are at a higher risk.

Let Us Help!

When it comes to canine bloat, Oz Animal Hospital offers the expertise, equipment, and compassionate care your dog needs.

  • Our commitment to providing immediate attention, affordable pricing, and seamless post-operative care makes us the ideal choice for this life-threatening condition.
  • Don’t let costs or wait times become a barrier to getting your dog the critical care they need!

Our full-service veterinary facility sees emergency cases during normal business hours, and we’d be pleased to help during those times. If your dog is experiencing a bloat crisis after hours, however, please click here for links to the 24/7 facilities you should contact for care.

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes both your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind! To schedule your appointment, contact us today.