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Fact SheetDisorder: Gastric Dilation (Torsion) or Intestinal VolvulusVariety of Poodle Affected: Standard Description: Twisting of the stomach which causes air to be trapped and normal blood flow to be cut off from the spleen and liver. This is a life threatening disorder requiring immediate veterinary care! Symptoms: Abdominal swelling, non-productive vomiting, restlessness, salivatiion, shallow breathing, progressing to shock and death Mode of Inheritance: Unknown, although there is a strong familial tendency in the Poodle. Method of Diagnosis: X-ray or clinical examination Age of Onset: Varies although it is more common in dogs 2+ years old Treatment: Immediate surgery is essential for a dog with gastric torsion to survive. To reduce the risk of torsion, a dog should be fed more than one meal per day. Water should be withheld immediately following vigorous exercise. The addition of raw fruits and vegetables in a dog's diet may help the stomach to function properly. Fearful dogs or dogs that are stressed are at greatest risk for gastric torsion. Recent studies at Purdue University suggest that dogs with deep, narrow chests are at greater risk. Recommendations: Gastric torsion is fatal if left undiagnosed and untreated. No dog that has had surgery for gastric torsion should be bred. A dog that produces offspring that develop gastric torsion should be considered a carrier. Great care should be taken not to breed carrier to carrier.
The information contained above is based on published research current at the time of writing and is accurate to the best of VIP's knowledge. |
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