Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly called “bloat,” is a critical and potentially fatal condition in dogs that requires immediate veterinary intervention. GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and then twists on itself. This twisting, known as volvulus, exacerbates the distension and creates a life-threatening situation. Bloat can arise without warning and escalate rapidly, making it a true emergency.
Stomach distension on its own is referred to as simple bloat, or dilatation. While potentially serious, simple bloat may resolve spontaneously. According to Dr. Maureen Luschini, a veterinary emergency and critical care specialist, bloat without twisting can still be life-threatening, but the risk depends on the severity and duration of the distension.
The real danger lies in the unpredictable progression from simple bloat to GDV. Dr. Luschini emphasizes that bloat “can progress to a GDV, where the stomach twists and flips on its axis, at any time. The pet owner will not know when that happens. That makes monitoring a bloat condition at home a very dangerous thing for an owner to do.”
The twisting of the stomach obstructs blood flow, creating a cascade of problems. When the stomach becomes severely distended with gas, fluid, or food, it puts pressure on the surrounding organs and decreases blood flow to and from these organs.
The twisted stomach is particularly severe because it completely obstructs blood supply to major organs and can impact blood flow throughout the whole body, resulting in shock. It is this condition that is referred to as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
As the stomach expands, it puts pressure on several large arteries and veins, compromising blood supply to the stomach. “Blood supply is cut off to the stomach, toxic products build up, and tissues begin to die,” Dr. Luschini explains. “Dogs can go into shock very quickly once GDV occurs, and every minute without treatment increases the risk of further damage and potentially death.”
Prompt veterinary attention is essential for any dog showing signs of bloat. The rapid progression of the condition means that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for survival.
