Dog Expert Demonstrates What Bloat Looks Like and Why It’s So Incredibly Dangerous

It’s never a topic pet owners want to discuss, but it is necessary to understand how gastric dilation vovulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is one of the leading causes of death in large breed dogs. Some dogs devour food without even chewing it, quickly filling their bellies with food and water. What might happen next can cause serious medical problems and, in some cases, death.

Garret Wing is a dog expert and owner of American Standard K9. She shares incredibly helpful and useful tips on her social media channels about all things dog related. In this recent video he shared on Saturday, December 14, he demonstrates what bloat is and why it is so dangerous for large dog breeds.

I knew that swelling was extremely dangerous, but I hadn’t seen a display like this since Loft before that he explains it in such an easy to understand way. Commenters also appreciated it and shared how they help prevent bloat in their fur babies. @Ian Moi shared: “Food, 45 minute break then walk.” Others had questions for him and he shared that it was better to be safe than sorry: “Usually you just wait with food and water after playing. Like us, you relax after eating and drinking.” Another commenter added: “This is a fantastic visualization! To clarify the comments, this can happen to ANY dog with ANY food you give him…deep chested breeds tend to happen more often. The best way to prevent it happen It’s making sure you don’t do any strenuous exercise immediately after eating!

Commenter @JoyMcStabby said: “Bloat is a ticking time bomb.” and another said: “One of my biggest fears.” @FrozenTottz added: “Slow feeding helps too, but there’s literally nothing you can do to prevent it.”

Symptoms of bloating and what to do next

As scary as bloating is, it is very important to understand the bloating symptoms so you can act quickly if it happens. Time is crucial and can mean the difference between life and death.

Another helpful pet article listed these symptoms:

A painful, distended and gas-filled abdomen.
Retching: frequent and unproductive attempts to vomit.
try to defecate
Lack of gurgling in the stomach.
Drooling due to nausea
Walking, restlessness, anxiety.
Dark red gums at first, then pale and cold gums indicating lack of oxygen.

If you suspect your dog has bloat, consult with your vet immediately. “Gastric bloat and torsion are medical emergencies that can cause death in just one to two hours after symptoms begin.”

Keep Gas-X on hand To alleviate some discomfort before taking your dog to the vet, “It is important to note that Gas-X will not cure the swelling, although it may buy you some time while taking the dog to the vet.” Walker Valley Vet recommends the following dosage based on your dog’s size: Small: ¼ adult dose, Medium: ½ adult dose, and Large: 1 adult dose.

Prevention is key when it comes to bloat, so if you have a dog that eats or drinks quickly, it’s worth investing in slow feeders and water bowls that won’t spill. Veterinarian Dr. Anwary posted a helpful video on how identify symptoms of bloating. Check it out because it could save a life.

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