Bloat, or gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), can be a scary life threatening condition in dogs. Dr. Tampira  – a veterinarian at Las Vegas’s own Craig Road Animal Hospital, talks about a procedure to prevent this life threatening condition and what breeds are at most risk from bloat / GDV. 

Dr. Tampira

By Orlena Tampira, DVM

A gastropexy is a surgical procedure to prevent a condition called gastric dilitation volvulus (GDV).

GDV is when the stomach turns on itself causing a restriction of blood flow as well as a build up of gas in the stomach. If uncorrected, the stomach will get larger and larger; hence why it is commonly referred to as “bloat.”

This condition is more common in larger, deep chested dogs.  The most commonly affected breeds are Great Danes, Weimaraners, St. Bernards, German Shepards, Doberman Pinchers, German Short hairs, Blood Hounds, Gordon Setters, Irish Setters, Standard Poodles, Irish Wolfhounds, Rottweilers, Rodesian Ridgebacks, Golden retrievers, Labradors, and Basset Hounds who are over 50lbs.

GDV is not limited to these breeds as temperament is directly related to their propensity to develop the condition.  Dogs that are active or anxious are 2.5 times more at risk than other dogs. Another risk factor is age. As dogs age, their tissue becomes less elastic and more relaxed making it easier for the stomach to rotate leading to GDV.

A gastropexy can prevent this potentially fatal condition. By attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall we can prevent the stomach from rotating and thereby GDV. At Craig Road Animal hospital, we recommend performing a preventative gastropexy for at risk breed dogs and at risk temperament dogs.

Laproscopic assisted gastropexys, an option here at Craig Road Animal Hospital, mean a smaller incision (four inches instead of 12 inches long) and a faster recovery. Prices for gastropexys are based on weight and age and include pre-operative bloodwork, catheter, fluids, anesthesia and montoring, sutures, and medications in the hospital as well as to go home.  If your pet is not spayed or neutered, we can perform that procedure at the same time.

Gastric dilitation volvulus is a serious condition, but is preventable, and a gastropexy is a good investment in the health of your pet.

 

Dr. Tampira performing a laproscopic procedure.