The stomach is dilated by the accumulation of gases inside, to then rotate around the longitudinal axis. This causes valve occlusion at both ends of the stomach and blood vessels.
Gastric torsion it is a serious pathology of a sudden onset and a fatal outcome if not recognized and treated within a few hours. Unfortunately, its causes are still unknown.
But what is gastric torsion in dogs?
The scientific term for torsion is gastric volvulus, this disease is also known by the name of GDV (from the English term Gastric Dilatation-Volvolus ) and is characterized by rapid and abnormal dilation of the stomach due to an accumulation of gas, which sometimes follows the organ (volvulus). This twist closes the entry and exit pathways of the stomach, causing simultaneous occlusion of blood vessels and decreased blood supply to this organ.
This leads to increased gastric pressure and compression of the surrounding organs, in the final phase of decreased blood supply in the animal. causes a state of shock.
La gastric torsion or dilation should be considered a medical emergency, because a dog with this condition they may die a few hours later from its inception.
Gastric torsion or dilation can happen to dogs at any time of their lives, but some breeds are more likely to suffer from this pathology: German Shepherd, Flanders Bouvier, Great Dane, Boxer, Saint Bernard, Doberman Pinscher, Bloodhound, German Pointer, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, Borzoi, Irish Labrador, Badger Dog, Labrador Retriever, BassetHound, etc.
Gastric torsion is a condition of extreme urgency and early identification and treatment are essential for the survival of the animal, so if your dog experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult your vet immediately, as in the early stages of expansion, the dog may show very obvious signs of discomfort, he may start to wander all the time, moan, search in vain for a comfortable position, etc., he may even be restless, trying to lick his belly or vomiting without success.
Signs of dogs with gastric torsion or dilation
Other signs may include: pale gums, anxiety, weakness, swelling of the abdomen (especially on the left side), shock; signs of shock include increased heart rate and respiratory rate.
How to prevent gastric torsion
The following guide will help you avoid any gastric torsion, these are suggestions based on the assumed risk factors, but there is no guarantee of success:
Divide the dog's food into small amounts to be administered two to three times a day.
Avoid physical activity one hour before and two hours after each meal.
Avoid having your dog drink large amounts of water immediately before or after eating or doing physical activity.
If you have two or more dogs, do not let them eat in the same place, in order to prevent each other from stealing food.
If possible, feed the quadruped at a time when it can observe their behavior after lunch.
Avoid abrupt changes in your diet.
If we observe signs of dilation, contact the vet immediately.
Another recommendation is to choose high-quality, easily digestible food and with a normal fiber content and is that a careful diet is the best way for us to reduce the risks, while waiting to know the exact cause of this syndrome. These measures, although not always effective, can reduce the number of severe and fatal cases.
So now you know, if you have a dog at home and you notice that it is suffering strange behaviors, don't hesitate for a second, because one quick acting on your part it can make the problem go further, you may even be saving your pet from death.