Phoebe is a 10 year old female Great Dane, who was presented to our emergency clinic in March 2010 as her owners suspected that she may have GDV (Gastric Dilation Volvulus) or "bloat". It was about one to two hours after Phoebe had eaten her evening meal that her owners noticed that she was retching, looking depressed and seemed bloated in the stomach.
On examination Phoebe's gums were bright red, she was salivating, pacing uncomfortably, and her abdomen was obviously distended. She was immediately admitted into hospital for diagnostic radiographs. The radiographs revealed obvious twisting and gas filling in the stomach. The options were discussed with the owner and they did not hesitate to elect surgery. Phoebe was taken into surgery promptly where her stomach was repositioned and sutured into place to avoid recurrence. The surgery was routine and no other surgical complications occurred.
Phoebe recovered very well over the next two days. On the third day while she was still being monitored in hospital, Phoebe developed a heart arrhythmia, which is a common post surgical complication. She was treated for her arrhythmia and did not experience any ill effects from this as it was detected and treated quickly.
Phoebe spent a total of four days in the hospital after her surgery. Her owners felt that she was already back to her normal self by this stage. She continues to do well and is surrounded by her loving owners and two other beautiful Great Danes.
"Bloat" is a very serious condition that is most commonly seen in large breed dogs but can rarely be seen in others as well. The proper name of this condition is Gastric Dilation Volvulus, or GDV for short. It occurs when the gastric stomach twists 180 degrees on itself and fills with air, along with any food that was there before it was twisted. Treatment is essential and carries a 50% success rate on average. There are a number of indicators used by your veterinarian to determine the success rate for each case as it can vary. Without prompt attention and appropriate treatment this condition becomes fatal. For this reason owner awareness and recognition is of great importance. Some of the signs that you may see if your dog has GDV include:
- Abdominal distension
- Abdominal discomfort/pain
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive salivation
- Depression / Lethargy
- Retching
If you suspect that your pet is not looking their normal self, it is essential to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible so the causes can be determined and the correct treatment be implemented before the symptons get worse. Adelaide Animal Hospital in Trinity Gardens is opened conveniently 7 days a week to our pet owners. Please do not hesitate to contact one of our hospitals if you have any concerns about your pet.
