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Bloat - knowing the signs could save your saint's life

The technical name is Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) and it is prevalent in deep chested breeds, like the Saint Bernard. It is the second leading killer in dogs next to cancer. It is life threatening, comes on quickly, and requires immediate veterinary treatment, often emergency surgery, to save the dog. Call ahead and let them know you are bringing in a bloat case so they can be fully ready when you arrive.

What is it?

As the stomach swells, it may rotate 90° to 360°, twisting between its fixed attachments at the esophagus (food tube) and at the duodenum (the upper intestine). The twisting stomach traps air, food, and water in the stomach. The bloated stomach obstructs veins in the abdomen, leading to low blood pressure, shock, and damage to internal organs. The combined effect can quickly kill a dog.

If you even suspect your saint may be bloating
- get to an emergency vet immediately!