08/07/2024
RIP Molly
It is with heavy heart the we mourn the loss of our beautiful Molly (Harriet and Theodore’s 2022 litter). Her life was lost too soon due to bloat.
I want to shed light on a serious health risk that many of our beloved pets face—bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Bloat occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, causing it to expand. The swollen stomach can then rotate, trapping the contents and cutting off blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to shock and even death within hours if not treated promptly.
Certain breeds are more prone to bloat, particularly large, deep-chested dogs like Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. However, any dog can develop this condition.
One effective preventive measure is a procedure called gastropexy, which can be performed during a spay or neuter surgery. Gastropexy involves surgically attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall, preventing it from twisting. This simple addition to the spay or neuter procedure can save your pet's life by significantly reducing the risk of bloat.
Other things you can do to reduce the chances of bloat are limiting water after eating, reducing the amount of food per meal, reducing the speed in which your dog eats and avoiding exercise after a meal.
Let's keep our furry friends safe and healthy by being proactive. Share this information with other pet owners, and together, we can spread awareness about the dangers of bloat and the life-saving benefits of gastropexy and preventative.
Give your pets an extra hug today!
