Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition that affects dogs. It’s caused when their stomach becomes distended with gas, twisting over on itself, and cutting off its own blood supply.
Symptoms of Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
The most common symptoms of Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus include:
- Restlessness
- Excessive drooling
- Abdominal pain
- Pale gums
- Rapid heart rate
- Shock
Other signs can include vomiting, appetite loss, and an enlarged abdomen. If left untreated, GDV can be fatal. If you think that your dog has GDV it’s important to get veterinary care immediately.
Stages of the Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
The stages of Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus can be split into three phases: pre-bloat, bloat, and post-bloat.
Stage 1
Pre-bloat is the initial stage of GDV and is associated with abdominal distension due to excessive gas accumulating in their stomach. During this stage, dogs can have signs of restlessness, excessive drooling, and abdominal pain.
Stage 2
Bloat is the second stage of GDV and is associated with their stomach becoming twisted on itself, cutting off its own blood supply. During this stage, your dog could have signs of shock, pale gums, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing.
Stage 3
Post-bloat is the final stage of GDV and is associated with the restoration of blood flow to their stomach and their stomach untwisting. During this stage, your dog could need additional treatments such as antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and pain medications. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most dogs can make a full recovery from GDV.
Treating Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Treating Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus typically involves decompressing their stomach, restoring blood flow to their stomach, and surgically correcting their twisted stomach.
Decompression is done by inserting a tube through their mouth into their stomach to release gas and fluid. To restore blood flow, a veterinarian might need to perform an emergency procedure called a gastropexy, which involves stitching their stomach wall to the abdominal wall. Surgery might also be necessary to untwist their stomach and remove any dead tissue.
After treatment, dogs typically need to be monitored for several days in the hospital. They could also need additional treatments such as antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and pain medications.
Preventing Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Preventing Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is essential to ensure the health and safety of your pet. There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of your dog having GDV.
First, it’s important to feed your dog multiple small meals throughout the day instead of one large meal. The smaller meals will help prevent their stomach from accumulating excessive gas.
Second, it’s important to avoid feeding your dog table scraps or other high-fat foods because these can increase the risk of GDV.
Third, it’s important to avoid exercising your dog immediately after eating because this can also increase the risk of GDV.
Finally, it’s important to monitor your dog for any signs of GDV and get veterinary care immediately if you think that your dog has GDV.
Additional Information
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a life-threatening condition that can affect dogs of any age, breed, or size. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of GDV and get veterinary care immediately if you think your dog has this condition. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most dogs can make a full recovery from GDV.