Nearly 20,000 will die from it. Scientists, veterinarians and pet owners alike want to know why dogs get this fatal condition. Bloat is a rapid accumulation of gas in the stomach causing compression of the surrounding organs called gastric dilatation. Often, the stomach twists at the same time compression of the organs occurs. This condition is called gastric dilatation with volvulus.
Shock is the result and can lead to death if immediate medical care isn t administered.
When a dog bloats, quickly stabilizing its condition with treatment for shock may keep it alive. In cases like Yogi's, gastropexy surgery, a procedure that involves attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall, is usually successful in preventing a recurrence of the volvulus, but not necessarily the dilatation. Bloat is a top priority for Morris Animal Foundation. I Veterinarians know how to diagnose and treat bloat, but don't know what events trigger it. This study focuses on identifying the predisposing and precipitating factors, so that veterinarians and owners can determine if their dogs are likely to bloat and then provide preventative care.