We’ve all heard about the dangers of bloat, but unless you’re the owner of a Great Dane you many not have paid much attention to it….so here I am, waving my arms wildly, hoping to get your attention….

BLOAT CAN AFFECT ANY DOG — especially seniors, and unless recognized and treated quickly, IT WILL CAUSE DEATH!

The good news, there are a number of things you can do to help reduce the risk of your dog from developing bloat — and for those of you who live in remote areas, like I do, there are specific Bloat First Aid Kits available - which I highly recommend adding to your home first aid kit….you never know when you might need it.

So, what is bloat, and how you can identify if your dog has it?

Bloat is when a dog’s stomach is distended due to an accumulation of gas and/or liquid, it then rotates, flipping the stomach and twisting the esophagus closed - trapping the gas and fluid inside.

The build up of pressure from the stomach extending, compromises the blood circulation, sending your dog into shock. Death can occur within a couple of hours if left untreated.

How can you recognize the condition?

First warning signs of bloat: Pacing, whining, restlessness, panting, increased salivation/excessive drooling, unproductive attempts to vomit. Abdomen exhibits fullness and begins to enlarge. Gums are red and heart rate is high (80-100 BPM).

Advanced signs of bloat: Gums are white/blue. Dog is unable to stand or has a spread-legged, shaky stance. Abdomen is very enlarged. Extremely high heart rate (100+ BPM) and weak pulse. Death is imminent unless pressure can be released.

7 things that can help prevent bloat:

  • Know your breed and if they are prone to bloat. Bloat can affect any dog, at any age, but deep-chested breeds and seniors are more at risk.

  • Genetics matter. If a close family relative (parents, grandparents, siblings) have experienced bloat there is a high chance that your dog will be prone to it.

  • Preventive surgery is an option. For dogs prone to bloat, or who have already experienced it, this surgery is highly recommended.

  • What you feed your dog can make a difference. Studies have shown that dogs fed a predominantly kibble diet are more prone to bloat, especially if the kibble has been soaked/hydrated before consuming (note: do not limit water intake before or after feeding for this can also increase the risk - just don't soak it!).

  • Feed smaller portion sizes, and use a slow feeder (especially for dogs who like to inhale their food). It’s also recommended NOT to use a raised food bowl - unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian.

  • Limit exercise after feeding. It is recommended to wait up to two hours after feeding before allowing your dog to participate in high physical activity. This is due to the volume of food in the stomach, and the higher chance of the stomach contorting and twisting.

  • Keep your dog at an optimal weight. Dogs that are overweight, and those that are underweight are also at a higher chance of developing bloat.

Emergency First Aid for bloat:

 

If you don’t have a designated Bloat First Aid Kit, get one. The one I have is from Copper Hollow in Canada, but there are a number available.

  1. Don’t wait to see if symptoms improve - if it’s bloat, it will only get worse. Call your vet so they know to expect you.

  2. Designate a driver if possible, so you are able to stay on the line with your veterinarian and perform first aid if needed - assuming you have a Bloat Kit…..which you should!

  3. If your veterinary clinic is close, and your dog is stable, skip first aid and get to you vet asap!

  4. BUT… if your dog’s conditions change, or you’re more than 30 mins away, inserting a vinyl tube (from your first aid kit) into your dog’s stomach can relieve pressure and buy you time.

  5. For advanced signs of bloat (white gums, unable to stand, very high heart rate), death is imminent. Insert the 14 gauge hypodermic needle (from your first aid kit) into your dog’s stomach, through your dogs left side, behind their last rib. This may seem drastic, it will relieve gas pressure, keeping your dog alive until you get to your vet.

Obviously this is a very brief overview. Your Bloat First Aid Kit will come with a detailed manual which you should read ahead of time.

Now - go talk to everyone you know about bloat! Let them know that there are first aid kits available - and that these kits can save their dog’s life.