Originally Posted by
Sunset Sam
I also am very sad to hear about your loss, finallyME. The problem of gastric torsion/bloat is very acute when it happens and even immediate, heroic veterinary intervention is usually unsuccessful. Thus I agree you made the right decision, especially since the post-surgery effects are nearly as painful as the original condition, with less than a 50/50 chance of ultimate success. To observe a dog in the acute distress of bloat will indeed break your heart. It is very unlikely that this was your fault or that you could have changed the outcome.
For those new to this problem, the causes of gastric torsion in dogs are not well understood in the veterinary field (barring recent discoveries of which I am not aware), but the condition is not uncommon. The risk seems to be greater for large breeds (e.g., St Bernards, Great Danes) and very active breeds (e.g., German shepherds, retrievers), although no breed is known to be “immune” from it. This condition can happen to a dog which is otherwise in perfect health and there is no external symptomatology by which it can be diagnosed by the owner until the problem is already very grave. Symptoms include acutely distended stomach, extreme pain, and unsuccessful attempts to regurgitate or defecate.
If you suspect an animal has gastric torsion/bloat, it is a "drop everything" situation. Call the vet and describe the problem as "possible bloat" and get moving. The vet will (should) clear everything and be prepping for possible surgery while you are on your way to the office.
Proactive steps to decrease the chances of the condition involve feeding in small portions several times during the day as opposed to one big meal, and waiting an hour after eating before engaging in strenuous activity (like what our mothers used to say about swimming in the lake after lunch). This can be easier said than done, depending on the particular dog.