Gastric dilatation-volvulus is a rapidly fatal emergency in large-breed dogs that requires immediate surgical intervention and can be partially prevented through management changes.
GDV is one of the most acute and severe welfare emergencies in companion animals. The stomach rotation causes intense, unrelenting abdominal pain; progressive shock; and death within hours without intervention. Even with emergency surgery, mortality rates of 15-30% reflect the severity of the condition. Survivors of GDV surgery face a prolonged, painful recovery. Prophylactic gastropexy — performed at the time of spay or neuter in high-risk breeds — eliminates the risk of rotation while allowing normal dilation. This procedure has an excellent risk-benefit profile for high-risk breeds and is increasingly recommended by veterinary surgeons as standard practice for Great Danes and other deeply predisposed breeds.