Signs of bloat (GDV)
in dogs

Why GDV is immediately life-threatening

When the stomach twists in GDV, several catastrophic things happen simultaneously. The gas-filled stomach presses on the large blood vessels in the abdomen, dramatically reducing blood flow back to the heart. Blood supply to the stomach wall is cut off, causing the tissue to begin dying within hours. The spleen, which is attached to the stomach, is often dragged along in the torsion and loses its blood supply as well. Toxins from dying tissue enter the bloodstream. The dog goes into shock.

This is why speed is everything. The difference between a dog that survives GDV and one that does not is often measured in minutes to hours.

Signs of GDV — know them cold

• Unproductive retching / dry heaving: Attempting to vomit repeatedly but producing nothing, or only white foam. This is the most characteristic sign.
• Distended abdomen: The belly looks bloated, feels hard or drum-like, especially on the left side behind the ribs.
• Restlessness and inability to get comfortable: Pacing, unable to lie down, getting up and down repeatedly.
• Excessive drooling and lip-licking: Signs of nausea.
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Pale or white gums: Sign of shock — get there faster.
• Sudden collapse or extreme weakness

What to expect when you arrive

A suspected GDV patient is one of the few cases where we triage ahead of patients who arrived earlier. When you arrive, say the words "possible bloat" — our team will act immediately. We will take your dog to be assessed while you complete paperwork. If GDV is confirmed, we will decompress the stomach (often via a tube or needle), stabilize with IV fluids and medications, and move quickly toward surgery.

The conversation about surgery will be direct and brief — we understand there is no time for lengthy deliberation. We will give you the information you need to make the decision as quickly as possible.