X-rays of hip dysplasia, bloat, fractures, bladder stones, gun shot wounds and more. Click on the x-ray to see a larger image. The upper right image is of a dog with severe onset of retching and salivating. At this point there is very little gas formation in the intestine. When this happens the blood supply to the stomach and intestines is restricted, toxins from the inside of the intestinal tract are absorbed and the tissues begin to break down.
Death is usually due to circulatory failure and shock.
The causes of bloat are still being investigated. Rarely seen in small breeds or cats, bloat is most common in large, deep chested breeds such as Great Danes, St. Bernards, Setters and Shepards. The first signs are salivating, retching, unproductive vomiting attempts and a rounded belly. Even when treated early by passing a stomach tube or emergency surgery, a high percentage of Gastric Dilatation cases won't survive. This unfortunate dog was the victim of real anger.