Guard against GDV: Tips from the expert to protect your dog
Intense play, jumping, training, and such activities should wait at least an hour after eating. When a dog's stomach is full, there is a risk of GDV - a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical intervention.
Natalia, Dolar's adoptive mother and author of the popular channel Dog Training Unveiled, warns dog owners about a dangerous condition that can affect their pets.
What is GDV?
GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus), also known as bloat and stomach twist, is when a dog's stomach fills with gas or air and then twists on itself.
This causes the blockage of blood flow to internal organs and difficulties in breathing, which can lead to severe health complications, and even death, if not treated immediately.
Natalia emphasizes that even innocent play with a dog right after eating can lead to GDV. The stomach, swollen with gases, expands, causing the dog to experience immense pain, often expressed through whining. Such a situation requires immediate veterinary intervention, often ending in surgery.
How to prevent GDV?
To avoid unnecessary stress for the dog, it's essential to remember a few important rules. These are:
Feeding the dog smaller portions - giving the dog several small meals a day rather than one large one is better. This helps to reduce the risk of excessive stomach distension.
Avoid intense exercise after a meal—don't let the dog jump, run, or fetch for at least 1-2 hours after eating. Such rest allows for calm digestion and reduces the risk of stomach twists.
Using slow-feed bowls - unique bowls that force the dog to eat slower can help prevent swallowing large amounts of air.
Low-fat diet - avoid giving the dog high-fat food and ensure that the diet is well-balanced.
Minimising stress: Provide a calm and safe environment for the dog, which can help reduce stress levels and thereby lower the risk of GDV.
