What is gastric torsion?
Eating and drinking immediately before or after exercise can be fatal for dogs. Gastric torsion occurs when a dog fills its stomach, turning it into a heavy organ that swings about as the dog moves. With exercise, the stomach can twist over on itself — which can lead to death if the twist is not undone.
With the wrong diet and overfeeding as the main trigger, canine gastric torsion is fatal in around 60% of cases treated too late. It is extremely important that owners of larger breeds know how to recognise the signs.
The symptoms are quite specific and, in most cases, begin around three hours after a meal. As well as considerable discomfort, the dog has difficulty breathing; because the torsion compromises the blood supply to several organs, the absorption of fermentation gases poisons the animal, which can die within a few hours if not seen by professionals.
Symptoms:
A sudden increase in the size of the abdomen, followed by breathing difficulties and a racing heartbeat.
Excessive salivation, attempts to vomit, flatulence and paleness of the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth.
Unusual restlessness followed by apathy and, in many cases, loss of consciousness.
A very common sign: the animal lying down, panting, with a swollen abdomen.
If you notice these symptoms, do not hesitate: take your dog urgently to the nearest veterinary clinic — prompt treatment makes the difference between life and death.
The 10 most susceptible breeds (Purina study): Golden Retriever, St Bernard, Rottweiler, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Basset Hound, Dobermann, Standard Poodle, Weimaraner.
