Signs And Symptoms Of Bloat In Dogs And Why It's Dangerous To Their Health

Humans can and will probably get bloat every now and then, and it never leaves them any worse for wear. In dogs, though, it can be completely deadly.

What Is It?

Bloat, known medically as gastric dilatation-volvulus, happens when the stomach within the body starts to twist up and fill with gas. In a dog, this air pressure doesn’t stop, often building further and further, causing blood to pool in their lower body. Soon, there won’t be enough blood for the organs, and the dog’s body will enter shock.

Symptoms

Being aware of the symptoms of canine bloat can make the difference between life and death. Here are some symptoms:

• Abdominal pain
• A swollen or bloated stomach
• Retching with vomiting
• Restlessness
• Pain

Treatment

Bloat is a medical emergency in dogs. It’s painful and could be fatal. Rush your dog to a vet if they exhibit these signs. A vet will then take X-rays, a physical exam, and a blood test to determine the strength of the disease. Surgery will then follow, usually not just to untwist the stomach and remove air, but also to help heal stomach wounds.

Prevention

They do say that prevention is better than cure. Here are some things to do to prevent bloat:

• Feed your dog in small, frequent meals
• Keep your dog out of the trash bin
• Do not initiate harsh physical activity right after a meal
• Invest in a puzzle or interactive food bowl that your dog will slow down to eat from
• Keep an eye out for symptoms!

Remember – when in doubt, go directly to a vet!

Feature Image Source: Pixabay