Bloat ......

BLOAT & TORSION

(Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus)

Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus (GDV) is also known as "Bloat," "Stomach Torsion," or twisted stomach. GDV is an extremely serious condition, and should be considered a life threatening emergency when it occurs. Dogs can die of bloat within several hours. Even with treatment, as many as 25%-33% of dogs with GDV die.

The Gastric Dilatation is one part of the condition and the Volvulus or Torsion is the second part. In Bloat, due to a number of different and sometimes unknown reasons, the stomach fills up with air and puts pressure on the other organs and diaphragm. This makes it difficult for the dog to breathe, and compresses large veins in the abdomen, thus preventing blood from returning to the heart. filled with air, the stomach can easily rotate on itself, thus pinching off the blood supply. Once this rotation (Volvulus) occurs and the blood supply is cut off, the stomach begins to die and the entire blood supply is disrupted and the animal's condition begins to deteriorate very radidly. Not all dogs that have a gas buildup and resultant dilatation develop the more serious and life threatening Volvulus. However, almost all dogs that have a Volvulus develop it as a result of a Dilatation. GDV is a very serious and life threatening condition. understanding the signs, prevention, and need for prompt treatment will help reduce the risk of mortality if your dog develops this problem.

Great Danes have been scientifically proven to be the most susceptable to GDV. Having a risk ratio of 41.4% chance of developing GDV.

GDV can occur in any breed of dog, however the percentages are not in the Danes favour. The closest other breed susceptable to the Dane is the Saint Bernard at 21.8%. other examples run in at the German Shepherd 4.2%, Labrador 2%, Rottweiler 1.1% and Miniature Poodle at 0.3%. GDV is much more likely to occur in large breeds with deep, narrow chests.

GENETICS

In addtion to breed predilection, there appears to be a genetic link to this disease. The incidence is closely correlated to the depth and width of the dogs chest. Several different genes from the parents determine these traits. If both parents have particulary deep and narrow chests, then it is highly likely that their offspring will have deep and narrow chests and the resulting problems that may go with it. This is why in particular breeds we see a higher incidence in certain lines, most likely because of that line's particular chest conformation.

AGE

Dogs over seven years of age are more than twice as likely to develop Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus as those who are 2-4 years of age.

GENDER

Male dogs are twice as likely to develop Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus as females. Neutering does not appear to have an effect on the risk of GDV.

EATING HABITS

Dogs fed once a day are twice as likely to develop GDV as those fed twice a day. It appears that dogs that eat rapidly or exercise soon after a meal may also be at increased risk.

TEMPERMENT

Dogs that tend to be more nervous, anxious or fearful appear to be at an increased risk of developing GDV.

 

WHAT CAUSES GDV?

Unfortunately, there is not one particular activity that leads to the development od GDV. It appears that it occurs as a combination of events. Studies of the stomach gas that occurs in Dilatation have shown that it is similar to the composition of normal room air suggesting that the Dilatation occurs as a result of swallowing air. All dogs, and people for that matter, swallow air, but normally we eructate (burp) and release this air and it is not a problem. For some reason scientists have not yet determined, these dogs that develop Bloat do not release this swallowed gas. There is currently several studies looking into what happens physiologically in these dogs that develop GDV.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

The most obvious signs are abdominal distention (swollen belly) and non productive vomiting (animal appears to be vomiting, but nothing comes up) and retching. Other signs include restlessness, abdominal pain, and rapid shallow breathing. Profuse salivation may indicate severe pain. If the dog's condition continues to deteriorate, especially if Volvulus has occured, the dog may go into shock and become pale, have a weak pulse, a rapid heart rate, and eventually collaspe. A dog with Gastric Dilatation without Volvulus can show all of these signs, but the more severe signs are likely to occur in dogs with both Dilatation and Volvulus.

HOW IS GASTRIC DILATATION & VOLVULUS TREATED?

When the dog is presented to the hospital his condition is assessed. Blood samples are generally taken and tested to help determine the dogs status. Usually the animal is in shock, or predisposed to it, so intravenous catheters are placed and fluids are administered. Antibiotics and pain relievers may be given. The stomach is decompressed either by passing a stomach tube or inserting a large needle into the stomach and releasing the gas. After the animal is stabilised, x-rays are taken to help determine whether or not a Volvulus is present. Some dogs with GDV develop a bleeding disorder called Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), in which small clots start to develop within the dog's blood vessels. To prevent or treat this condition, Heparin is given, if indicated. The heart rate and rhythm are closely monitored. Some dogs with GDV develop heart arrhythmias, and this is a common cause of death in dogs with GDV. Dogs that already have a heart disease or a prone to heart arrythmias are generally treated with medication.

Once the dog is stabilised, surgery is performed to accomplish three things.

1. Assess the health of the stomach and surrounding organs, if areas of the stomach or spleen have been irreversibly damaged, they are removed. In such a case, the chances of recovery are very poor, and euthanasia may be a very sad but necessary alternative.

2. Properly reposition the stomach.

3. Suture the stomach in a way to prevent it from twisting again, (a procedure called Gastropexy). If Gastropexy is not performed, 75-80% of dogs will develop GDV again.

After surgery, the dog is closely monitored for several days for signs of infection, Heart abnormalities, DIC, Stomach Ulceration or perforation and damage to the Pancreas or Liver. Antibiotics and additional medications may need to be given.

HOW IS GASTRIC DILATATION & VOLVULUS PREVENTED?

Despite adopting all of the recommendations listed below, a dog may still develop GDV. Because of the genetic link involved with this disease, prospective pet owners should question if there is a history of GDV in the lines of any puppy that is from a breed listed as high risk, such as the Great Dane.

"If you forgot to ask me put your mind at ease, to date there is no link to GDV in either your pups parents lines. However I can not stress strongly enough to follow these recommendations PLEASE."

*** Feed your pup two or three times daily, rather than once a day.

*** Know the early warning signs of Bloat.

*** Develop a good working relationship with your local Veterinarian in case emergency care is needed.

*** Water should be available at all times, but should be limited immediately after feeding.

*** Vigorous exercise, excitement and stress should be avoided 1 hour before and 2 hours after meals.

*** Diet changes should be made gradually over a period of 3 to 5 days.

SUMMARY

Bloat is a life threatening condition for Great Danes over two years of age. Owners of Danes can not know enough information on Bloat.