Take a Class Resources Learn Pet First Aid First Aid for Dogs Dog Bloat and Torsion
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  • Dog Bloat and Torsion

    A dog with bloat being treating by a veterinarian.

    Signs of Bloat and Torsion

    Hyper-salivation, restlessness, pacing, distended abdomen, non-productive vomiting and shock. Learn to recognize these signs, which are life-threatening.

    What causes bloat and torsion?

    The exact cause is unknown. It is more common in deep-chested large and giant dogs. Bloat and torsion are thought to be associated with eating large meals, exercising just before or after eating, and gorging on large amounts of food or water.

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    Emergency Steps

    1

    Check the dog’s ABCs and perform CPR as needed.

    2

    Take your dog to a veterinary hospital immediately!

    • Your dog must have aggressive fluid therapy, be assessed for stomach rotation (by x-ray), and have her stomach decompressed, and have surgery if twisted.

    Dog Bloat and Torsion FAQs

    How can I prevent this?

    There is no foolproof way to prevent bloat, but these things may help:

    • Feed your dog more than once daily (two meals of equal size).
    • Do not allow your dog to exercise immediately before/after eating.
    • Do not give your dog access to large food sources.
    • Do not allow your dog to drink large volumes of water at the same time.

    Does my dog need surgery?

    Emergency surgery is needed for any dog with a rotated stomach, once your dog is stable.

    What happens with bloat?

    Your dog's stomach overfills with air or food (bloat); as it worsens, the stomach turns around on itself and misplaces the spleen (torsion). This cuts off blood supply to these organs and prevents blood from returning to the heart leading to life threatening shock.

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    Information Provided Deborah C. Mandell, BS, VMD

    Dr. Debbie Mandell

    Pet First Aid information provided by Dr. Debbie Mandell, Professor of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine at the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; American Red Cross National Pet Care Advisor for the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. Visit redcross.org/take-a-class/scientific-advisory-council to see how we work, members, sub councils, scientific reviews, and recent research.

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    More than 4.6M people turn to us, the trusted training provider for First Aid, CPR, BLS and more, every year to gain lifesaving skills. Trust us to deliver unmatched lifesaving training that will provide you the confidence and skills to act when moments matter. Training Services is a division of the American Red Cross with the mission to spread knowledge and educate as many members of the national community in lifesaving procedures. Our services include training courses for CPR and AED, First Aid, BLS (Basic Life Support), Babysitting, Caregiving, Lifeguarding Water Safety, and more.