RSS
Home
How to prevent bloat in your dog and to recognize the signs of bloat
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Also known as twisted stomach this condition in dogs can be fatal in a matter of hours. It is very important to recognize the signs and to get your dog to the veterinarian if you suspect bloat. There are some things that can be done to prevent bloat. According to ehow and online information website, bloat is the number two killer of dogs, with cancer rating as number one.
Large dogs and older dogs are particularly susceptible to bloat. Do not let your dog drink large amounts of water after rigorous exercise and monitor how much your dog drinks in general. Place your dog's water bowl higher off the floor so it's neck will not be pointing downwards when he drinks his water.
Try to keep your dog from eating his food too quickly. This is hard to do with some dogs who are used to eating their food quickly. A good way to remedy this problem is to feed your dog his full share of food in increments. Dogs should be fed two meals a day to help prevent bloat and stomach problems. To further prevent this condition of bloat you can take each meal and divide it into portions and give it to your dog a few minutes apart. This will give the dog stomach a chance to be less overwhelmed by a high amount of food intake at one time.
Feed your dog foods that are low in grain content as grains and water in the dog stomach can expand and be a cause of bloat. Your dog's food should be a blend of some grains and protein. Contact your veterinarian for the correct food to feed your dog. If your dog is susceptible to bloat you may want to eliminate grain and carbohydrates in his diet completely.
After your dog has consumed a meal do not allow him to do rigorous activity or exercise. After a big meal the stomach needs to have the blood supply go to it to help digest the food.
The larger the dog, the more susceptible it is to bloat. Dogs like a Great Dane would be more susceptible than a poodle. If you see the dog's stomach is extended use should suspect it might be bloat. If your dog starts panting and is retching it could possibly be bloat. Your dog will be in distress if he has bloat and will try and tell you something is wrong. The dog may exhibit an inability to vomit and be very anxious. If your dog has any of these symptoms it is important you contact a veterinarian right away over the telephone. With bloat, time is of utmost importance. If your dog has bloat you only have a few hours to remedy the condition. Some conditions of gastric distress are considered pre-bloat and are not fatal. If you suspect either of these conditions it is always wise to call the veterinarian before it becomes full-blown bloat. The dog may just need to burp or vomit and that will possibly remedy the situation.
The treatment for bloat is surgery. This surgery would be emergency surgery, so the importance of preventing bloat is something dog owners might want to add to their first aid knowledge about pets.
Buddy the Dog eating slowly
Related Articles:
Add a Comment
Many holidays are celebrated between the months of October and January, meaning that extra food, guests and dangers for pets are right around the …
Give your favorite pet the pampering it deserves. Soft and cozy, this elegant pet bed features a plush cover and cushion that cradles your little …
