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taken from website
www.kifka.com/elektrik/bloat.htm#conditionThis is one of the true emergencies in veterinary medicineGastric Dilation (bloat) with Volvulus (torsion), or GDV.
Simply put, bloat describes a stomach which has become abnormally enlarged or distended. The stomach is filled with gas, food, liquid, or a combination thereof. Torsion is the abnormal positioning of the stomach which is caused by the stomach's rotation about its axis, i.e. twisting of the stomach. Bloat usually leads to torsion, although torsion can occur without bloat. Depending on how quickly the problem is dealt with, GDV may result in a stomach that is rotated by anywhere from 90° to 360°. Severe torsion usually means the displacement of both the stomach and the spleen (they exchange positions). The speed at which the stomach empties itself, as well as the stomach's digestive contraction pace, are thought to play a role in the development of GDV.
GDV most commonly occurs in large, deep-chested breeds, but has also been reported in Bassets, Dachshunds and cats.
It is imperative that you make sure that your veterinarian is familiarized with the proper procedures before his/her skills are needed. If your veterinarian is not receptive to or is offended by your queries, then it may perhaps be time for you to find a more responsive veterinarian.
Symptoms Early signs of bloat may includerestlessness
excessive drooling
abdominal pain
retching
and/or non-productive attempts to vomit.
The dog may vomit foamy mucous, or a mucousy foam may be evident around the lips.
A more advanced sign of bloat is characterized by enlarged abdomen
pale gum color
Some people have reported early detection by observing abnormal behavior, such as not wanting to move around; or laying down in a curled up position, etc. when the dog would normally run around and play. During this early phase, stomach enlargement may not be visually evident yet. Bloat can usually be detected when you make the dog stand up and gently feel his/her abdomen. The abdomen should feel soft and tapered inward when the dog is relaxed. If the abdomen feels hard, or sounds hollow (like a drum) when you tap it gently with your hand, then your dog is probably bloating or even torsioning.
If you're not sure, get the dog in to the veterinarian (or at least call) right away just in case--it's better to be safe than sorry. PreventionThere are no sure-fire ways to prevent or predict GDV. Here is a list of suggestions :
Feed 2 or 3 smaller meals daily (as opposed to 1 large meal).
Any changes in the diet should be made gradually, over a period of a week.
Vigorous exercise, excitement and stress should be avoided from 1 hour before to 2 hours after meals.
Excessive drinking should also be avoided.
Avoid feeding food that are known to cause flatulence (gas), e.g. soy, beans, peas, onions, beet pulp, etc.
Some veterinarians advocate the feeding of large pieces of fresh/raw fruits and vegetables (e.g. apples, oranges, carrots) 3 to 4 times a week. The reason is that commercial dog food lacks the appropriate amount of roughage that a dog needs in order for the stomach to function properly.
Some people give their dogs over-the-counter anti-flatulent just before or after they put their dogs through stressful situations.
It may also be handy when the dog appears to have a lot of gas.
On dogs known to be highly susceptible to GDV (e.g. ones that have already bloated before) discuss the use of medicinal prevention with your veterinarian.
above website also covers:
Emergency Treatment of Suspected GDV
Physiological Changes Caused by GDV
Surgery for GDV
Post-Surgery Care and Common Complications
