Stomach Flip in Giant Breed Dogs

[cheesycheata]

Does anyone know how to prevent stomach flip in giant breed dogs?

[Clanad]

Called Bloat (at least here in the U.S.)... it can't bred out of larger breed dogs, but one can ameliorate its occurrence by simply waiting at least 30 minutes to an hour after they've been fed before any strenuous exercise. Especially if they've eaten a larger meal than usual. The phenomena can occur in any dog, but ismore common in deep chested dogs... German Shepherds, Labradors and, of course the giant breeds such as Great Danes.

If your dog suddenly, for no other apparent reason begans vomiting (even water) and bringing up only white frothy material... be suspicious of Bloat. A veterinanrian can often treat the condiition with only skilled manipulation of the dog's stomach, thereby avoiding surgery. But be aware that the condition is often fatal in less than 48 hours if untreated. We lost a medium sized Blue Heeler here on our ranch in the western U.S. before we became educated on the issue...

[lankeela]

There is some information here, scroll down to 'Torsion'

http://www.linkhitlis...o=450195&ListNo=29969

[lankeela]

Sorry, scroll down to articles - health, then scroll down to torsion.

[kita1]

Good article about it here:

http://www.freshfield...hat_you_need_to_know/

I have read recently of a vet advising having the stomach stitched down when they had a GSD pup spayed at five months. This was to prevent the stomach twisting over if the dog ever had an episode of bloat. Seemingly it is becoming a more widespread procedure.

[Dee Sa]

I have two shar pei dogs, is this the same as broom ?

[jen86]

also keep the dogs water bowls on a stand this can gelp prevent it as well

[thugulike]

I had a Neapolitan Mastiff who survived 2 bouts of bloat. The first time it was due to him gulping too much water and we sp[otted it quickly and no operation was required. The second time he needed the op. It was touch and go but he pulled through in the end. Food and water should be on a stand and deep chested dogs should be fed twice a day and not exercised for about an hour after eating. The signs are unmistakeable. The dogs tummy is grumbling, they don't sit down and may retch but not vomit and they are acutely uncomfortable. At the first sign you should call the vet..