What it is
The stomach hangs in the belly like a loosely held bag. In this condition it fills with gas and fluid and swells, and it can turn on its own axis, sealing both its entrance and its exit. The gas can no longer escape, the swollen stomach presses on the large veins that carry blood back to the heart, and the stomach wall and the organs around it lose their blood supply. All of this happens within hours.
Large dogs with a deep, narrow chest are at greater risk, and the risk grows with age. Gulping food and stress have also been linked to it.
If you live with a large, deep-chested dog, know where the nearest emergency clinic is and how to get there at night. With bloat every minute counts, and a quick decision to go to the vet matters more than anything you could do at home.
Signs you may notice
- Retches but brings nothing up
- Swollen, tight belly
- Paces restlessly
- Drools heavily
- Pale gums
- Weakness or collapse
The dog becomes restless, paces, tries to vomit but brings nothing up, drools heavily, and the belly looks swollen and tight as a drum. If you see these signs, don't wait: take the dog to a vet right away.
When to see a vet
If your dog tries to vomit without bringing anything up, or its belly swells, it needs a vet immediately, day or night.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.