Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): Symptoms and Treatment

Canine gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition affecting dogs, particularly large and giant breeds with deep chests. It involves the stomach filling with gas, becoming distended, and in severe cases, twisting on its axis (volvulus). This twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach and can lead to a cascade of serious complications, ultimately resulting in death if not treated promptly. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options is crucial for dog owners and veterinary professionals alike.

Symptoms of Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus:

The symptoms of GDV can vary in severity and onset, and early recognition is critical for a positive outcome. Initial signs might be subtle and easily overlooked, making it vital to be vigilant about your dog’s behavior and physical condition. Early symptoms can include:

Restlessness and Anxiety: Your dog may display unusual restlessness, pacing, or exhibiting signs of anxiety. They might be panting more than usual, even in a cool environment. This subtle change in behavior often precedes more dramatic symptoms.

Unsuccessful Attempts to Vomit: Dogs with GDV often try to vomit but are unable to produce anything, or may only produce a small amount of saliva or frothy fluid. This is because the twisted stomach obstructs the normal expulsion of stomach contents.

Abdominal Distention: As gas accumulates in the stomach, the abdomen becomes noticeably distended and firm. This is a hallmark sign of GDV and is usually easily detectable by visual inspection and palpation. The abdomen may appear abnormally large and tight.

Pain: The distended and potentially twisted stomach causes significant pain. Your dog may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as whining, whimpering, or groaning. They may become reluctant to move or lie down in a comfortable position.

Hypersalivation: Excessive salivation (drooling) is a common symptom, often accompanied by attempts to vomit.

Tachycardia (Rapid Heart Rate): The body’s response to the pain and lack of blood flow to the stomach includes an increased heart rate. This can be detected by feeling the pulse.

Tachypnea (Rapid Breathing): Similarly, rapid and shallow breathing is a common physiological response to the stress and pain associated with GDV.

Pale or Cyanotic (Bluish) Mucous Membranes: Check your dog’s gums. Pale or bluish gums indicate poor blood circulation, a serious sign of GDV. This is due to the compromised blood flow resulting from the twisted stomach.

Weakness and Collapse: In more advanced stages, dogs with GDV can become weak and eventually collapse due to the severe physiological distress.

Shock: The body’s attempt to compensate for the lack of blood flow can lead to shock, characterized by a weak pulse, low blood pressure, and altered mental state.

Severe Cases:

Untreated GDV rapidly progresses to a life-threatening emergency. Severe complications include:

Dehydration: Loss of fluids due to vomiting and decreased blood flow can lead to severe dehydration.

Acidosis: The build-up of lactic acid due to impaired blood flow can result in metabolic acidosis.

Gastric Rupture: The severely distended stomach may rupture, releasing its contents into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis (a life-threatening infection).

Cardiovascular Collapse: The severe circulatory compromise can lead to cardiovascular collapse and death.

Treatment of Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus:

Treatment of GDV requires immediate veterinary intervention and is typically an emergency situation. Delay can be fatal. Treatment strategies include:

Stabilization: The initial focus is on stabilizing the patient. This involves intravenous fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, administering oxygen to improve blood oxygen levels, and managing pain with appropriate analgesics such as opioids (e.g., butorphanol or morphine). Care must be taken to monitor the patient closely for signs of shock or respiratory distress.

Decompression: The gas trapped in the stomach needs to be released. This is usually achieved through a stomach tube passed through the esophagus. If a tube cannot be passed or the stomach is severely twisted, a surgical intervention is necessary.

Surgery: In most cases, surgery is required to correct the volvulus (untwist the stomach) and perform gastropexy. Gastropexy is a surgical procedure that secures the stomach to the abdominal wall, preventing future episodes of GDV. During surgery, the veterinarian will also assess the stomach for damage and address any other complications, such as intestinal damage or peritonitis. Post-operative care includes pain management, intravenous fluids, and close monitoring of vital signs.

Medical Management (for less severe cases, or as adjunct to surgery): In some cases, where the stomach is not severely twisted and decompression is successful, medical management might be an option, but this is rare and usually only undertaken in conjunction with, or in preparation for, surgery. This may involve administering medications to reduce gas production and promote gastric emptying.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for dogs with GDV depends on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the speed of treatment, and the presence of complications. Early diagnosis and immediate veterinary intervention significantly increase the chances of survival. Even with prompt treatment, there is a risk of mortality. Dogs that survive GDV often require ongoing veterinary care and monitoring.

Prevention:

While GDV cannot be entirely prevented, several steps can reduce the risk:

Feeding Practices: Avoid rapid eating. Use slow-feed bowls or divide meals into smaller, more frequent portions.

Exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before or after eating.

Breeding Considerations: Breeders should be aware of the higher risk in certain breeds and consider responsible breeding practices.

Gastropexy: Prophylactic gastropexy (surgical fixation of the stomach) can be considered in high-risk breeds, especially if there’s a family history of GDV.

Canine GDV is a serious and potentially fatal condition. Awareness of the symptoms and prompt veterinary intervention are crucial for a positive outcome. If you suspect your dog may have GDV, seek immediate veterinary attention. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of survival.