Just the words torsion or bloat will bring great fear to any dog owner, particularly those with large chested dogs who seem to be especially vulnerable.
Though bloat is most common in dogs over a year old younger dogs can be affected also. There isn't any one known cause for bloat but some of the things that may contribute to the problem include, eating to quickly, gulping down the food or water, too much rigorous exercise right before or after eating, feeding only once a day, nervousness and stress.
Some of the symptoms may be non-productive vomiting producing just foam, panting, restlessness, gums may be pale. The stomach will enlarge and feel tight, sounding like a drum. This is caused by gasses building up. The dog may seem unable to find a comfortable position even on his favorite dog bed, may pace, dig or show anxiety.
When the stomach begins to turn, torsion, the blood supplies and nerve function are cut off. The dog will go into shock and must be taken to a vet immediately! If the pressure can't be relieved by inserting a tube into the stomach to allow the gasses to be released then surgery is the only option. Timing is everything.
X-rays will confirm if the dog is in torsion. Vital signs need to be stabilized and surgery preformed and even then many dogs can die from cardiac problems afterward.
It is believed that torsion could possibly be an inherited tendency so it is important to know your dog's history. Some people may choose to have a preventive surgery dome such as intercostal gastropexy where the stomach is attached to the abdominal wall so it can't twist.
Some of the things we did to prepare for this possibly deadly problem are, starting with our puppy early to get him to eat slowly. We would let him eat a few bites, make him stop, then a few more. Even to this day he is a very slow eater and is also not protective of his food...an added benefit. We watch his rowdy play particularly around feeding time and limit it. His food and water are in elevated dishes. And probably most important, we are aware that it could happen and have a reliable and competent vet!
Remember, time is vital, there is none to waste if you suspect this deadly problem. Awareness and quick action may save the life of your beloved pet.
| M. Swan owner http://www.spoilyourpetsshop.com |
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