Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV/bloat) is a rapidly fatal emergency in large breeds. Prevention strategies and knowledge of warning signs save lives.
GDV causes rapid onset of severe pain, cardiovascular collapse, and death within hours. Dogs experiencing GDV suffer acutely. Emergency surgery is the only treatment and must be performed immediately. Prevention through prophylactic gastropexy in high-risk breeds and risk factor reduction prevents this preventable welfare emergency.