Gastrointestinal

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV, 'bloat')

Emergency

Also known as: gastric torsion; bloat; GDV; gastric dilatation; gastric-torsion

EMERGENCY. This condition can be life-threatening. Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. See the Emergency & first aid chapter for triage.

Overview

stomach twists on itself. Deep-chested large breeds (Great Dane, German Shepherd, Weimaraner, Standard Poodle). Signs: distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness. TRUE EMERGENCY — survival tied to speed of surgical intervention. Prophylactic gastropexy commonly recommended.

Non-prescriptive. This entry deliberately does NOT name specific drugs, doses, routes, or durations. Treatment decisions rest with a licensed veterinarian who has examined your dog and considered its history.

Draft — vet review pending. This entry has not yet been signed off by a registered veterinarian.