Pet Owner's World 2008 - (Page 19) Definition. There are generally two distinct types of bloat: gastric dilatation, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Volvulus means a “twisting of the stomach or the intestine”. Since both require immediate care and diagnosis by a veterinarian, we will keep it simple and refer to either type as bloat. Bloat is the filling of the stomach with air, with or without the stomach twisting. This twisting cuts off blood supply and can make this life-threatening situation become even more life threatening. Causes. Much time and scientific research have been devoted to studying the cause of bloat. Different social myths about causes and preventatives have come and gone over time, including severe exercise prior to or after eating, the amount and type of food given and raising the pet’s food dish to prevent bloat. The primary fact of the matter is that GD/GDV happens to large and giant breeds with deep and/or narrow-chests. This includes (but is not limited to) the following breeds: • Bernese mountain dog • Setters—Irish and Gordon • Great Dane • Retrievers—Labs and goldens • Saint Bernard • Standard poodle If any of you have companion animals of these breeds or crosses or other similar, deep-chested breeds, you should become familiar with the signs of bloat and the actions necessary if this problem occurs. Signs. One basic, guiding Pet Tech principle is that you must know what is normal for your pet, because then you will more quickly recognize when something that pet is presenting is not normal. Keep notes or records on your pets with descriptions of normal vital signs, dispositions and actions of each one. Pets, like people, respond differently to pain, stress and discomfort. Signs of bloat may include (but are not limited) to the following: 1. Head thrust forward 2. Unproductive vomiting with retching. Do not confuse saliva for vomitus. 3. Abdominal region can be distended (bloated or swollen) hard and rigid. It may be painful to the touch, with the dog exhibiting guardedness or a reluctance to allow you to touch its abdomen. Distention may be difficult to ascertain if the stomach is tucked up under the dog’s rib cage. 4. Capillary refill time (rate at which blood refills empty capillaries, checked at the gums) is prolonged with possible red gums (unless gums are nor- mally pigmented black). Gums will become white/pale as shock progresses. (Prepare to treat for shock. Shock by definition is the lack of adequate oxygen to the cells of the body. 5. Lethargy (weakness characterized by a lack of vitality or energy), restlessness (unable to get comfortable), anxiousness, pacing or lack of movement. All of these are different responses to pain. 6. Rapid heart rate. (As time passes, a slowed heart rate may be observed.) 7. Straining to defecate 8. Collapse Actions for Survival. Time is of the essence. Do not hesitate in getting your pet to a veterinarian for a definitive medical diagnosis. Other pet first aid actions include: 1. Make a mental or written note what time you began aiding the pet. 2. Restrain and muzzle the pet if necessary. 3. Assess the pet’s vitals: heart rate, breathing rate, temperature, capillary refill time and mucous membrane color. Reassess every few minutes, if possible. 4. Contact your veterinarian prior to transport, for prehospital instructions and so the clinic staff can be ready to admit and treat upon arrival. (continued) 2008 • Pet Owner’s WORLD 1
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