One of the worst scenarios I ever had to endure was watching my boy Walther suffer from a twisted stomach. It was his 10th birthday, and it was supposed to be a joyous day... and it was - until I heard this horrific sound coming from him as he was breathing. Shortly after, he was throwing up this white, marshmallow, consistency vomit. Oh my heart aches talking about it now, even two years after the case.
A twisted stomach, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition in dogs that occurs when the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and then twists. This can cut off blood flow to the stomach and other organs, and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Bloat is another term that is sometimes synonymously used to reference GDV; in reality, bloat is when the stomach fills with air, and is more of a pre-condition before the stomach twists - the extra air is what heavies the stomach.
It is most common in large, deep-chested dogs, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards. However, any dog can be affected. The exact cause of GDV is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of factors, including:
- Eating too much food too quickly
- Drinking too much water after eating
- Exercising too soon after eating
- Anatomical factors, such as a deep chest or a narrow abdomen
The symptoms of GDV can vary, but they may include:
- A swollen abdomen
- Retching or vomiting
- Panting or difficulty breathing
- Restlessness or anxiety
- Drooling
- Rapid heart rate
- Pale gums
- Collapse
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. GDV is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Treatment for bloat typically involves surgery to untwist the stomach and remove any gas or fluid that is present. In some cases, other supportive measures, such as intravenous fluids and medications, may also be necessary. This surgery is not cheap and I would highly recommend having the preventative surgery done - a Gastroplexy - during their spay/neuter, while they're young, that contacts a portion of the stomach to prevent it from flipping.
With prompt treatment, most dogs with GDV make a full recovery. However, even with treatment, GDV can be fatal. If you have a large, deep-chested dog, there are a few things you can do to help reduce the risk of GDV, such as:
- Feed your dog several small meals throughout the day instead of one large meal
- Avoid giving your dog water immediately before or after eating
- Do not exercise your dog for at least one hour after eating
- If you notice any of the symptoms of GDV, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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