Gastric torsion (often referred to as bloat) is a common hazard in all dogs with deep chests. It occurs when the dogs stomach turns or twists, cutting off circulation to the stomach and ultimately causing the tissue of the stomach to die. Unless treated immediately, it is very likely to be fatal.
That being said, using a few simple rules you can keep your dog safe from bloat:
- Always feed your hound from a raised feeding dish. The dish should be a minimum of 9-10 inches off the floor and could be as high the seat of a chair.
- Feed your hound at least two meals per day, rather than feeding just one large meal. This keeps the stomach from becoming over filled, which may lead to bloating. Breaking the meals up to three per day is even better.
- Do not allow your hound to drink excessive amount of water with his meals.
- Do not allow your dog to exercise heavily for one hour before and after meals.
By following these simple rules, thousands and thousands of retired racing greyhounds have moved from the track into a forever home with very low incidence of bloat.
On the outside chance that bloat does occur, here are the symptoms to watch for:
- Dry heaving or unsuccessful vomiting because the stomach is twisted.
- Dogs will drool, pant or pace.
- Some dogs will exhibit stomachs that are distended and firm.
- Dogs in the later stages of bloat are in shock and are usually found lying on their sides, panting, extremely weak and lethargic
If you suspect bloat, get your hound to a veterinarian as soon as you can. Be aware that these symptoms can also occur for other reasons.
