GDV! What Is It?

     For Pet Corner I am going to do a series of conditions that can be dangerous and even fatal to our beloved fur children.  Today’s topic is GDV, Gastric Dilatation-volvulus.  Gastric which means of the stomach – Dilatation which means the action or condition of becoming or being made wider, larger – volvulus which means an obstruction caused by twisting of the stomach or intestine. Once the stomach turns oxygen and nutrient carrying blood flow is cut off which can result in the death of surrounding tissue. GDV can affect the cardiovascular system, even the spleen, which is a huge blood supplying organ.  If not corrected the condition is usually fatal.  

    It is not impossible for GDV to occur in any breed of dog though there are Certainly Dogs/breeds that are predisposed to having GDV these breeds include:

•Great Danes

•German Shepherds

•Irish Setters

•Standard Poodles

•Labrador Retrievers

•Labradoodles 

Obviously most common to deep chested dogs. 

     Symptoms that occur are: 

•Swollen abdomen/hardened abdomen

•Pacing back and forth/Can’t get comfortable

•Trying to Vomit and most commonly without success

•Breathing difficulties

     What Causes GDV?

The exact causes are unknown but a lot of cases are correlated with  ingestion of excessive amounts of water or food, either before or after high activity levels with delayed emptying of the stomach.  In some instances, dogs affected by GDV have a history of gastrointestinal tract issues, though this is not always indicative of GDV.  

     What can be done to prevent GDV?

If GDV has already occurred then a corrective surgery is the best option and once in surgery a Gastropexy can be performed.  A Gastropexy is a surgical procedure where the stomach (usually the large part of the stomach the fundus) is attached (surgically tack) to the right side of the body wall, the cranial portion caudal to the diaphragm.  All large breed puppy owners should be given the option and explained why it is so beneficial to perform a prophylactic gastropexy when neutering or spaying. 

     The most out of the norm GDV I had ever been involved with was a shar-pei.  As always it was a 5pm emergency that was coming in right before my shift was ending.  I was able to help stabilize insert an IV catheter and help prep for surgery.  If memory serves me right it was a successful surgery and of course the owner was very grateful.  His dog was his world.  I can’t express enough how beneficial it would be for people to research what they want in a pet/breed and what that breed is predisposed to!  Pets just like children never stop racking up the bills, so thinking that after adopting or purchasing a brand new pet that all there is to do is feed and water it, ya gotta another thing coming! 

Thanks For Reading 

Heid Parker