Bloat In Dogs

Bloat in dogs is a life-threatening condition where minutes really count. It typically mostly affects deep-chested dogs; however, virtually any dog may be affected. It is very important, therefore, for dog owners to be aware of the warning signs potentially leading to bloat.

Only by promptly recognizing symptoms suggesting bloat, owners may be able to report to their veterinarian immediately for life-saving treatment.

1. Definition
   What happens is that the dog's stomach twists on its axis, then swells with fluid and air. When too much air and fluids accumulate, the stomach swells up to a point where it starts putting pressure on the surrounding organs such as the spleen and important arteries and veins. This can be deleterious to a dog as blood supply may be cut off, leading to the death of surrounding tissues (necrosis) and can be life threatening if not treated immediately. Bloat can be recognized by identifying some specific key symptoms. 
    
2. Swollen Abdomen
   Perhaps one of the most distinctive signs of bloat is a distended abdomen. This is due to the accumulation of air and fluids in the stomach. With these contents trapped into the abdomen, the abdomen enlarges, and if the area is thumped on with a finger, it will produce a typical hollow noise.   Sometimes certain breeds of deep chested dogs may not exhibit this symptom. 
    
3. Retching
   A dog affected by bloat often develops retching and gagging episodes. In other words, the dog appears as if he or she is trying to vomit but the retching is unproductive or only produces frothy white foam. This is often caused by the fact that the stomach twists as it swells up with air (this is why bloat is known as well as Gastric Dilatation Volvulus-GDV) making it quite impossible for the dog to vomit or belch. To make things even worse, the action of retching often causes the dog to swallow more air further aggravating the situation. Retching is generally considered the hallmark symptom of bloat. It is often accompanied by salivation. 
    
4. Restlessness
   Dogs affected by bloat will become restless. Such restlessness derives from the discomfort and pain deriving from the distended abdomen. Dogs may also pace nervously back and forth, without being able to relax or act normal. The dog may whine and stare at its abdomen as it tries to seek comfort. Some will assume a hunched-up position and may demonstrate discomfort upon being touched.  
    
5. Worsening Symptoms
   As bloat progresses, putting pressure on the nearby organs, arteries and veins, the dog begins to exhibit aggravating symptoms. The dog may start exhibiting labored breathing due to pressure from the stomach on the diaphragm, and the gums may turn pale due to reduced blood circulation. Soon, the pulse may weaken and the dog will have a rapid heart rate potentially causing fatal heart arrhythmias. At this point, the dog may collapse and slip into a coma as its organs start to shut down. Death will then follow.
    
6. Considerations
   The most severe signs are mostly associated with dilation of the stomach along with the torsion of the stomach. For this reason, it is very important to report to a veterinarian promptly upon witnessing the first warning symptoms. Treating a case of dilation on its own is much simpler than treating a case of dilation with torsion along with severe complications.