Bloat is one of the most serious health conditions that can affect your dog, and it is imperative that you know what it is and how to recognise it. In this article you will find exactly what bloat, (otherwise known as gastric dilation and volvulus) is, along with the causes of bloat. You will see all of the symptoms of bloat, being alert to them if your dog shows any of these signs. More importantly you'll know what to do, with both immediate veterinary treatment, and holistic options.

Bloat is most often seen in deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, Dobermans and German Shepherds. Some reports claim that it is the second leading cause of death in certain breeds next to cancer. The stomach distends in response to digesting food and gas production. Some dogs produce more gas, and are more prone to bloat. Following the gas distension, the stomach can twist, called a 'torsion', and then the built up pressure can't escape. This compresses a large vein, the caudal vena cava, cutting off the blood supply to the rest of the abdominal organs.

The symptoms of bloat show as your pet's stomach is swollen with air and fluid. You will see the belly expanded and feel firm like a balloon. Your dog is anxious, very restlessness, and often will appear hunched up. A classic sign which I saw many times in veterinary practise was of a dog attempting to vomit very frequently ( every few-10 minutes), with nothing coming up. This usually happened very suddenly, and often after eating or drinking. As the bloat continues, your dog is in pain, drooling, and trying to vomit. Then this further progresses to signs of shock.

The distended stomach loses its blood supply, and causes a loss of blood flow to the rest of the abdominal organs. There can be faster heart rate, pale to grey mucous membranes, weakness and collapse.

Call your veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect bloat. Pets can die in as little as 15 minutes following a torsion. Your veterinarian can assess your dog, perform an X-ray to confirm the bloat, attempt to pass a stomach tube to relieve the pressure, and if needed, perform surgery to correct the torsion.

In the early stages of bloat, the stomach is distended, but your pet can belch; this means the stomach hasn't yet twisted. Products that contain antacids and simethicone, a foaming agent that pulls gas bubbles together, may help. You can safely give a liquid antacid - Mylanta is very effective. The dose is 1 tablespoon per 10 lbs (your 80 lb Labrador would need 8 tablespoons). Or, you can give the tablet form -