Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV) in Standard Poodles

What are the Symptoms?

Some symptoms of gastric dilation are typically abdominal pain, whining, groaning, noticeable swelling, vomiting, restlessness, or excessive drooling. Other signs could mean the stomach as twisted, which leads to indications of volvulus or torsion. With either of these conditions, they show the same signs, however, your standard poodle would appear more distressed than with standard gastric dilation.

For example, your dog may collapse, have pale and cold membranes in the mouth, or breath very rapidly. In fact, the symptoms appear to be shock like and the reason for this is that the twisting of the stomach is causing a loss of blood to both the spleen and the stomach. If these symptoms occur it is a very good sign that your standard poodle has Volvulus or Torsion. This requires medical attention immediately and is a situation where life and death is at stake.

In most cases, the only real way to take care of either of these conditions is with surgery. In the case of torsion or volvulus, surgery is needed immediately and without it, your dog cannot survive the twist of the stomach or the lack of blood. Without being treated, the dog will suffer from heart failure and circulatory collapse.

In other types of gastric dilation, it may be possible to treat the condition with a simple surgical procedure, such as inserting a tube into the stomach and releasing the gases or fluids. However, once in there, if they find the twist, it will be necessary for the stomach to be opened and the veterinarian to take emergency steps to relieve the condition.

What types of dogs are at Risk?

The dogs most at risk include Standard Poodles, Wolfhounds, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters, Saint Bernards, Malamutes, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, and Akita's. Generally, any dog that is of a large breed and has a deep chest has an increased risk of developing bloat.

How Can I Prevent Bloat In My Standard Poodle?

The best way to prevent it is to watch the eating habits of your dog. Do not allow them to consume their food at a rapid pace, this could provide an avenue for gases and fluids, which lead to bloat. You should also make sure to feed your dog at least two meals each day, three may be even better as well. After eating, do not allow your dog to do any type of exercise for at least two hours after eating. This will help them digest their food better and allow it to settle.

Protecting your dog against bloat is the best way to prevent the condition from occurring. You want to make sure that you take the necessary steps and if you cannot prevent it and it does occur, that you get treatment right away. It is a very serious condition and should not be ignored. If you see any of the symptoms call your vet right away and get them in as soon as possible. It may be possible to catch the gastric dilation before it worsens or leads to any type of twisting.

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