Dog care, symptoms, health issues, and dog health advocacy from an owner's perspective. In loving memory of Jasmine.
Should you rush your dog to the vet at the slightest sign of not feeling well? What if their stomach is swollen and hard? There are times when things are best left to resolve on their own, and there are times when not treating is the better strategy. Particularly when treatment equals drugs, such as antibiotics, steroids, and the like.…
A healthy appetite is a reflection of good health. A dog that doesn’t want to eat is a sick dog. Can wolfing down their food ever be a problem? A ravenous appetite can be a reflection of a health problem, particularly when your dog is also losing weight or having diarrhea. However natural to dogs, eating too fast can create…
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening emergency condition that affects predominantly deep-chested large breed dogs. Gastric dila-what? You’re probably more familiar with the term bloat. And if you don’t know that one either, and own a large, deep-chested breed, you better do your homework quick. Introduction Gastric dilatation and volvulus is as deadly as cancer, except it kills…
Gastric torsion, also known as gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition in dogs. Large, deep-chested breeds are especially susceptible. Some of the breeds at risk are Great Danes, Dobermans, Weimaraners, Gordon Setters, Irish Setters, and Saint Bernards. Any dog parent, however, should be aware of the symptoms. Symptoms of gastric torsion come on fast and include: distended/swollen…
A dog who is trying to vomit but nothing is coming out is a major emergency. This is a telltale sign of GDV/bloat! Most problems come with a combination of symptoms. Rarely will your dog exhibit a sole symptom or a sign. With some issues, it is important to consider them in context. Some, however, are reason enough to seek…