What should I do if my dog has gastric dilatation?
Gastric dilatation, also known as gastric distension or bloat, is a life-threatening condition in dogs that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and becomes distended. In severe cases, it can lead to gastric torsion (twisted stomach), which is even more dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect your dog has gastric dilatation, it’s critical to act quickly.
Symptoms of Gastric Dilatation:
- Restlessness or anxiety
- Abdominal swelling or bloating (the belly may look visibly distended)
- Retching or attempts to vomit, without producing anything
- Excessive drooling
- Pain or discomfort when touching the abdomen
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Weakness or collapse in severe cases
Steps to Take if Your Dog Has Gastric Dilatation:
1. Seek Emergency Veterinary Care Immediately
Gastric dilatation is an emergency. If you notice any of the symptoms, especially abdominal swelling or attempts to vomit without success, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. Time is critical, and the sooner treatment begins,
the better the chances for a successful outcome.
2. Do Not Attempt Home Treatment
It may be tempting to try to treat gastric dilatation at home, but do not attempt to relieve the bloating yourself by massaging the abdomen, giving your dog food or water, or any other home remedies. This can make the situation worse,
especially if the stomach is twisting (gastric torsion), which can cause severe damage or rupture.
3. Veterinary Treatment
At the veterinary clinic, the veterinarian will likely perform the following:
- Initial Stabilization: The first priority will be to stabilize your dog, which could include intravenous fluids to treat shock and oxygen therapy to assist breathing.
- Decompression: The veterinarian will relieve the pressure in the stomach, often by passing a nasogastric tube to remove the gas, or using a needle to release gas from the abdomen in severe cases.
- Surgical Intervention: If the stomach is twisted, your dog will require surgery to untwist the stomach and reposition it. In some cases, a procedure called gastropexy may be performed during surgery to prevent future
twisting of the stomach.
4. Post-Treatment Care
After the emergency treatment, your dog may need to stay in the veterinary clinic for observation, especially if they had surgery. During this time, the veterinary team will monitor your dog’s vital signs and recovery closely, and additional treatments,
such as pain management, may be administered.
5. Preventing Future Episodes
Dogs that have had gastric dilatation or torsion are at a higher risk for future episodes. To reduce the risk of recurrence, your vet may recommend:
- Smaller, more frequent meals: Feeding your dog several smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal can reduce the chances of bloat.
- Avoid vigorous exercise right after eating: Allow your dog to rest for 30-60 minutes after eating before engaging in any physical activity.
- Gastropexy surgery: In some cases, your vet may suggest a preventative procedure called gastropexy, where the stomach is surgically tacked to the abdominal wall to prevent twisting.
Why Use PettureX APP?
Dealing with a condition like gastric dilatation can be overwhelming, especially in an emergency. For quick access to professional advice and guidance, the PettureX APP can be incredibly helpful. PettureX, powered by AI technology, provides
24-hour access to expert pet care knowledge, including advice on serious conditions like gastric dilatation. Whether you’re unsure about the symptoms or need support while waiting for emergency care, the PettureX APP offers instant online consultations to help guide you through the situation and ensure your dog receives the best care possible.
