Bloat (Gastric Dilation and Volvulus or GDV)

“Your dog is bloating.” No dog-owner wants to hear these dreaded words. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog owners need to understand “bloat” as it is a serious, life-threatening medical condition that must be addressed quickly to save the dog’s life. In the health survey conducted by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Health for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs living between 2008 -2012, out of 1,161 respondents, 4.4 % (54 dogs) reported an incidence of bloat/torsion in their dogs. Of those, 11 reported that this was a fatal event.

What is Bloat?

Bloat is medically referred to as gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV) and is a life-threatening disorder which requires emergency medical and surgical care. Gastric dilatation refers to distention of the stomach with gas, usually swallowed air. Volvulus, which may or may not be present, is where the stomach rotates on its long axis. This results in complete obstruction of outflow of stomach contents, including gas. Severe distention of the stomach will impinge on the blood flow of major blood vessels in this area. Loss of blood flow to the stomach and spleen quickly leads to necrosis (tissue death) of these organs. Hypovolemic and endotoxic shock, which follows rapidly, will lead to death if not treated.

What causes Bloat?

No one knows the cause of GDV, but one known anatomic factor is that large and giant-breed dogs are affected. This includes Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs. No sex predisposition exists, and dogs appear to be at increased risk with advancing age.

Other reported predisposing factors are:

A first degree relative with history of GDV
Aggressive of fearful behavior
Once daily feeding
Rapid consumption of food
Previous splenic disease

However, your GSMD may not fit into any of those risk categories and may still experience GDV. It is important to know the signs of GDV as early recognition and veterinary treatment are critical to save the dog’s life.

Early Warning Signs of Bloat/GDV

Sudden onset of abdominal distention, i.e., looks “bloated”
Non-productive retching (trying to vomit but doesn’t)
Increased salivation, restlessness, respiratory distress
Depression, weakness, staggering
Discolored (pale or brick red) mucus membranes (gums)

What Do You Do?

Don’t panic – your dog needs you to function! Think of where the closest accessible veterinary facility is. If after hours, is there an emergency clinic in your area (information to know ahead of time)? Go!!! Decompressing (letting the air out of) the stomach may buy some time IF you have the equipment and expertise, or at least good instructions and understanding. Bloat kits can be purchased at the following online stores:

https://naturesfarmacy.com/canine/bloat-kits-and-supplies/
https://breedingbetterdogs.com/store/bloat-kit

Again, a bloat kit is only useful if you know how to use it. If used improperly, you could cause permanent injury to your dog. It is far better to load your dog in the car and head to your veterinarian or to the nearest emergency veterinarian.

What To Expect at the Veterinarian?

The veterinarian initially will treat for shock (IV fluids and emergency medications) and stabilize the dog’s general condition.

It is imperative that the pressure on the stomach and internal organs is reduced as soon as possible. The veterinarian will first attempt to pass a stomach tube. If this is not possible due to twisting of the stomach, a large gauge needle may be inserted through the skin into the stomach to relieve the pressure in the stomach. Preventive antibiotics may be administered. If available, an ECG will be used to monitor for secondary cardiac arrhythmias. X-rays will be taken to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the position of the stomach. If the stomach is twisted, surgery is required to reposition and preferably suture it into place. Surgery can take place once the dog is stable and is able to undergo anesthesia.

The primary goals of surgery are to return the stomach to its normal position, to remove any dead or dying stomach tissues and to help prevent future GDV. This is accomplished by performing a gastropexy, suturing the lining of the stomach to the dog’s abdominal wall. A gastropexy will not prevent your dog from bloating again, but in most cases, a gastropexy will prevent the stomach torsion (volvulus). The dog’s prognosis is dependent upon many factors, including, but not limited to how long the GDV lasted, the degree of shock, the amount of tissue damage, the presence of heart arrhythmias, and the length of the surgery.

What Can you Do to Prevent GDV?

Speak to your breeder and your veterinarian about your concerns. Prophylactic (preventive) gastropexy is currently being recommended by many veterinarians for breeds at risk or for dogs with relatives that have been affected by GDV. Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy are gaining favor. Laparoscopic gastropexy is less invasive and greatly reduces the recovery time for dogs.

In addition to the above, pay careful attention to your dog’s feeding and exercise routine. Be aware of any changes in your dog’s behavior or physical appearance and develop a plan in hopes that you will never have to use it.

References:
The American Bullmastiff Association, “Bloat” by Sandra Wickwire, DVM. https://bullmastiff.us/health-rescue/bloat/
The Merck Veterinary Manual, “Gastric Dilation and Volvulus in Small Animals” by Thomas W.G. Gibson, BSc, BEd, DVM, DVSc, DACVS, Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/diseases-of-thestomach-
and-intestines-in-small-animals/gastric-dilation-and-volvulus-in-small-animals
“Gastric Dilation and Volvulus in Dogs” by Earnest Ward, DVM. https://vcahospitals.com/knowyour-pet/bloat-gastric-dilatation-and-volvulus-in-dogs