Introduction
Bloat, (Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus), is a potentially deadly condition which requires emergency medical treatment. When a dog is suffering from bloat, the stomach becomes distended by trapped air; pressure is placed on the diaphragm and surrounding organs, and the blood supply to the heart is reduced. If the stomach twists in its bloated state, then the tissues in the stomach quickly begin to die.
Treating Bloat
Bloat can progress to a deadly situation within a matter of hours. If an animal is brought into a veterinarian clinic with symptoms of bloat, the dog’s overall status is immediately assessed. Blood tests will help the veterinarian to know how critical the situation is, an intravenous catheter is begun to administer medications that address shock and other side effects of bloat, and x-rays are taken to ascertain whether or not the stomach has rotated. A stomach tube is inserted, or a long needle is placed in the stomach, to let out the air that was trapped in the stomach.
Once the dog has been stabilized, and an x-ray has been analyzed, surgery is performed to try to repair the stomach’s condition. During the surgery the stomach is returned to its normal position. A procedure called gastropexy, where the stomach is sutured in specific places, will help to prevent bloat from occurring in the dog again. In cases where the tissues around the stomach have died the dead tissues are removed.
In some cases, the damage to the stomach and surrounding organs that occurred as a result of bloat cannot be repaired. Sadly in these cases the dog must be euthanized.
Recovery Period
Dogs recovering from surgery to treat bloat will normally need to stay in the hospital for a few days so they can be closely monitored. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed for post-op care, and a special diet and food regimen will need to be followed for a few weeks after the dog returns home.