If you’re a dog owner, especially of a large or deep-chested breed such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles you may have heard of GDV. GDV is short for Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus— more commonly known as “bloat.”
What Is GDV?
GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, fluid, or food (gastric dilatation), and then twists on itself (volvulus). This twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach and other vital organs and can also block the return of blood to the heart. Without urgent treatment, GDV can lead to shock, organ failure, and death within hours.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause of GDV isn’t fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:
- Most commonly occurring in large and giant breeds (such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles)
- Dogs with deep, narrow chests
- Eating large meals quickly
- Exercising immediately before or after eating
- Stress or anxiety
- A family history of GDV
While smaller dogs can develop bloat, it is significantly more common in larger breeds.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
GDV often develops suddenly and worsens quickly. Key warning signs include:
- A distended or swollen abdomen
- Unproductive retching (trying to vomit but nothing comes out)
- Excessive drooling
- Restlessness or pacing
- Signs of pain (whining, panting, or reluctance to lie down)
- Rapid heart rate
- Collapse or weakness in later stages
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, you need to seek urgent medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Veterinarians typically diagnose GDV through a physical exam and abdominal X-rays. Treatment involves stabilising the dog with fluids and medications, followed by emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and restore blood flow.
In many cases, a procedure called a gastropexy is performed during surgery. This involves attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall to reduce the risk of future twisting.
Can GDV Be Prevented?
While GDV cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk, including:
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals instead of one large meal.
- Use slow-feeder bowls to prevent rapid eating.
- Avoid vigorous exercise one hour before and after meals.
- Keep your dog calm during feeding times.
- Discuss preventative gastropexy with your veterinarian if your dog is high-risk. This can be done during their desexing procedure.
If you have any further questions or are considering getting a gastropexy for your pet, please give the friendly team at Yarrabilba Veterinary Hospital a call on (07) 3180 3096 to book in a consultation with our vet team or feel free to book an appointment online at a time that suits you.
