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 emergency care even if that’s the only thing you notice.
Other symptoms of GDV
Other symptoms of bloat can include:
- distended/bloated abdomen
- pained/uncomfortable posture
- pacing/restlessness
- panting/difficult breathing
- excessive salivation
- rapid heartbeat
- pale mucous membranes
- collapse
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) is the mother of all emergencies. Every minute counts.
Immediate, aggressive treatment is the only thing that can save your dog’s life.
Why is GDV/bloat so dangerous?
In dogs, bloat goes beyond what we consider bloat in people. Yes, it involves an accumulation of gas, food or fluid in the stomach, causing it to expand. The stomach then puts pressure on other organs, restricting blood flow to the stomach lining, and the heart, and therefore to the rest of the body. This can cause hypovolemic shock.
If that wasn’t bad enough, sections of this trapped stomach wall can necrotize (the tissue dies). It can also cause blood clotting to go crazy with small blood clots developing throughout the entire bloodstream … When things get this far, the prognosis is extremely poor.
And just imagine the pain from all that.
Grueling picture?
If I painted a truly grueling picture, it was my intention. This is indeed the worst of emergencies. Know the signs of GDV/bloat and know that if you see them, time is wasting. Particularly if your dog is large, deep-chested breed.
Related articles:
Gastric Dilatation And Volvulus (GDV): What Did The Latest Study Reveal?