Bloat...what is it?

[lovemybostons]

We are still researching Mastiff's for a possible pet. Under the list of health concerns for the breed it listed "bloat". It said this could be a problem in any large breed. I have only had small dogs. My vet has never mentioned it as a concern for my girls. Does it not affect small dogs? I've heard of it before but am not sure what it is. Can anyone help?

Thanks, Jessica

[lv4dogs]

It *can* affect any dog, however it is very very rare in small dogs. It is mostly commmon in very large breeds & especially those with deep chests. Mainly it occurs when the dog eats then excersizes right after. It is also known as gastric torsion.
It also happens more frequently when you only feed once a day (a no-no anyways especially for large dogs, feeding multiple times helps in many other ways too) also if they tend to gulp down their food or water and also in large dogs if their dish is very low to the ground.
here is some more info on it:
http://www.canismajor.com/dog/bloat.html

[lovemybostons]

I read the link you suggested. It was very informative. I wrote it down for future references. Thanks a lot.

Jessica

[Cheshirekatt]

Just a quick fyi:

There are theories about what causes bloat, but they don't really know for sure.

It's suggested that elevated feeding stations, more frequent and smaller meals and no exercise after eating can help, but it hasn't been proven.

[anna_66]

Our RB Keisha died from bloat (she was a Chow).

Here is another link about BLOAT

[lizbud]

Originally posted by anna_66
Our RB Keisha died from bloat (she was a Chow).

Anna,

I'm so sorry about Keisha. Bloat can be a serious concern
for all of the larger breeds. All deep chested dogs. I understand
that the military K 9's (GSDS) all undergo surgery to tie the
stomach to the wall of the chest to prevent Bloat in their service
dogs. They are housed in kennels & no one would notice if they
went into distress after eating. Bloat is deadly.

[Sudilar]

So very sorry to hear that Keisha had died from bloat.

Bloat is one of the scariest things for me as an owner of two GSDs. On my fridge, I have posted the symptoms of bloat and the emergency vet's phone number. I have Gas X tablets in the medicine cabinet. I am always worried that either of mine may be struck by this deadly affliction. Here are some theories and thoughts on bloat from the GSD bb GSD bb bloat research

[lovemybostons]

Thank you all for the information. It was very helpful. Sorry to hear about Keisha . Lizbud, how are you liking the snow? I'm from Indiana too. I couldn't believe it. Thats Indiana weather for you

Thanks again to all.

Jessica

[lizbud]

Originally posted by lovemybostons
Lizbud, how are you liking the snow? I'm from Indiana too. I couldn't believe it. Thats Indiana weather for you

Thanks again to all.

Jessica

I don't really like it much. I'm ready for spring.

It's snowing again today & looks like the St.Patrick's Day Parade
will be marching through snow flakes today. LOL.

[Sudilar]

It's snowing here in Illinois, too. I am cooking Corned Beef and Cabbage, celebrating Killian's designated 10th birthday (who would have ever thought that he would live for going on three years of liver and autoimmune disease) and I'm going to go to JC Penney's to buy SHORTS that are on sale. I am in the SPRING mode, even if it is SNOWING outside!!!!!

[lv4dogs]

sudilar;
just wondering who that white cutie is on your sig? Did I miss something here?

[Sudilar]

Originally posted by lv4dogs
sudilar;
just wondering who that white cutie is on your sig? Did I miss something here?

She is my angel, Avalanche (1984-1996) the Great Pyr!!!!!
The other fur-angel (single GSD pic) is Wolfgang (1974-1984).

[lovemybostons]

Originally posted by lizbud
I don't really like it much. I'm ready for spring.

It's snowing again today & looks like the St.Patrick's Day Parade
will be marching through snow flakes today. LOL.

I know what you mean, I can't wait until spring!!