What is GDV or Bloat in Dogs - Vets Now Pet Safety Advice
Like 2 Dislike 0 Published on 19 Feb 2015
GDV – also commonly referred to as ‘Bloat’ - is one of the most serious emergencies we treat at Vets Now.
GDV stands for Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus.
It’s is a life-threatening condition of dogs that happens when stomach gas causes their stomach distend and twist. The term ‘Bloat’ is used when the stomach distends, but does not twist.
The exact cause of GDVs is unknown, but they often happen around 2-3 hours after a meal has been eaten. Especially so if that meal was consumed very soon after (or before) strenuous exercise like a running or jumping around.
All breeds can suffer from GDV, but it occurs more commonly in large breeds such as German Shepherds, Dobermans, Great Danes and Setters.
What are the symptoms?
Behavioural symptoms include:
• Restlessness
• Faster or more laboured breathing
• Drooling
• Unsuccessfully trying to vomit
When the GDV has progress you may notice:
• Your dog’s abdomen is bulging or enlarged
• Gums become pale
• Their heart rate is high
If you ever suspect your dog has a GDV it is imperative you seek immediate veterinary treatment. Success rates are higher the sooner treatment is started.
What can you do to prevent my dog from getting a GDV?
Our tips for helping to prevent GDV are:
• Pay careful attention to your dog’s feeding and exercise times. Keep them as far apart as possible. Allow at the very least 1 hour between exercising and eating.
• Use feeding accessories that help to slow down the time your dog takes to eat their meal, such as food maze bowls.
• Feed numerous smaller amounts across the day rather than one large meal if that’s an option.
Find more advice at http://www.vets-now.com/gdv
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Please note:
Vets Now assumes no liability for the content of this video. This advice is not a substitute for a proper consultation with a vet and is only intended as a guide. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment immediately if you are worried about your pet’s health - even if they are closed, they will always have an out of hours service available.