Gastric dilation volvulus or ‘GDV’

A GDV describes a situation where the stomach becomes bloated with gas or food and then twists around on itself within the abdomen.  This causes extreme pain and can be fatal within hours due to the impacts of shock and compromise of blood supply to organs within the body.

WHO COULD BE AT RISK

Most classically affected breeds are large, deep chested dogs (e.g. Great Danes, Setters, Weimaraner, Standard Poodles), but any size and age of dog can be affected.

SIGNS OF GDV

Signs you may see at home include an obviously distended abdomen, signs of pain or distress, panting and vomiting or retching that is not productive. Xrays are commonly used by veterinarians to help diagnose a GDV.

TREATMENT

Treatment includes emergency stabilisation, decompression of the stomach to release gas and or food, followed by emergency surgery to de-rotate the stomach and in some cases remove parts of the spleen or stomach if they have been severely injured.

POSSIBLE RISK FACTORS

Some of the risk factors thought to be associated with development of a GDV include breed (as discussed above), eating rapidly, a stressed or anxious temperament, feeding a large volume, single meal per day, exercise shortly after a meal, having a close family history of bloat and eating from an elevated food bowl.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

For high-risk breeds, a discussion should be had with your veterinarian regarding ways to reduce risk of bloat and GDV in your dog.

A surgical procedure called a ‘gastropexy’ can be performed for at risk breeds and may be offered at the time of desexing.

In this surgery the stomach is tacked to the body wall, which does not stop bloat but greatly reduces the risk of the stomach rotating and causing a much more serious situation.

Being able to recognise and treat this condition quickly is crucial for a good outcome.

If you have any concerns please contact your local Sydney Animal Hospital;