Dog bloat, dog bloat symptoms, causes and dog bloat treatment

Dog bloat is the term used to describe gastric dilatation-volvulus, which in turn is shortened to GDV.



It is also known by other names such as "stomach torsion." What happens is that the stomach typically gets larger or bloats and subsequently twists on itself. This is how it has come to be known by such terms as "twisted stomach." Dog stomach bloating is such a manner should not be ignored. This is a critical condition. In fact, it can prove to be fatal.



Bloat in German Shepards and bloat in Great Danes is quite common as GVD usually afflicts bigger breeds of dogs having deep chests. Thus other dogs like Irish Setters and the gentle Saint Bernards too are susceptible. The stomach tends to enlarge abnormally due to factors such as dog gas and/or food. When the dog's stomach twists, it cuts of the stomach's entry and exit points.

Symptoms
In a dog, bloated abdomen is one symptom.



Dog bloat symptoms are fairly discernible. A swollen belly is a sign to look out for. Nonproductive vomiting as well as retching is also common. Try to see if your dog is restless or appears to have any sort of pain in his or her abdomen. Another sign is quick shallow breaths. With no home treatment options, you must contact your veterinarian at the earliest.

Causes
There is still a lot of debate as to the true causes of dog bloat. One has to concentrate on catching the symptoms before GVD becomes life threatening. This is crucial since as much as a third of dogs afflicted by GDV die despite dog bloat treatment. The pet's stomach begins to accumulate air which in turn exerts extra pressure on your dog's organs and his or her diaphragm. Consequently, breathing is labored. In addition, the large veins present in your dog's abdomen are compressed. As a result the blood can't return to the heart. Since it's actually full of air, the dog's stomach simply rotates and the blood supply is affected. Once this happens, it is imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible.  

Treatment
The dog has to be treated at a veterinary clinic. Treatment would depend on the stage of GVD and other factors. It could involve the administering of intravenous fluids, tubes and possibly surgery. It can take a matter of hours after dog bloat for a dog to succumb to this affliction. It cannot be stressed enough that dog stomach bloating requires immediate veterinary attention.