Bloat

Phase 1

Symptoms:

1. Pacing, restlessness, panting and salivating.
2. Unproductive attempts to vomit (every 10-20 minutes).
3. Abdomen exhibits fullness and beginning to enlarge.

Actions:
Call Veterinarian to advise of bloat case enroute. Transport dog to Vet immediately.

Phase 2

Symptoms:

1. Very restless, whining, panting continuously, heavy salivating.
2. Unproductive attempts to vomit (every 2-3 minutes).
3. Dark red gums.
4. High heart rate (80 to 100 BPM).
5. Abdomen is enlarged and tight, emits hollow sound when thumped.

Actions:
Apply first aid if Vet care is more than 10 minutes away. Then transport dog to Vet immediately.

Phase 3 Death Imminent!!!

Symptoms:

1. Gums are white or blue.
2. Dog unable to stand or has a spread-legged, shaky stance.
3. Abdomen is very enlarged.
4. Extremely high heart rate (100 BPM or greater) and weak pulse.

Actions:
DEATH IS IMMINENT!! Apply first aid immediately. Transport dog to Vet as soon as possible (even while applying first aid, if possible).


Tip from one GSD bb member: for GSD size dog, give DiGel or GasX type pill, three if extremely bloated.