Bloat is one of the fastest-moving, most deadly emergencies a dog can face. It can kill within hours.

Bloat happens when the stomach fills with gas and expands dramatically. In the most dangerous form — GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) — the stomach then twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. Toxins build up rapidly, tissues begin to die, and the dog goes into shock.

Signs of bloat:

• Swollen, hard, or visibly distended abdomen

• Retching or gagging repeatedly without bringing anything up

• Extreme restlessness — unable to get comfortable, pacing, unable to lie down

• Hunching or standing with an arched back

• Excessive drooling

• Pale gums

• Rapid, shallow breathing

• Weakness or collapse

What to do: This is a go immediately emergency — do not wait to see if it gets better. Call the emergency clinic on the way so they can prepare. Keep your dog as calm and still as possible. Do not offer food or water. Do not try to relieve the pressure yourself.

Treatment requires surgery. The vet will stabilize your dog with IV fluids and attempt to decompress the stomach, then surgically correct the twist and secure the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence.

Breeds most at risk: Deep-chested, large breeds are significantly more prone to GDV — Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Saint Bernards, and Basset Hounds. If you have a high-risk breed, talk to your vet about a prophylactic gastropexy — a preventive surgery that can dramatically reduce the risk of GDV.

Prevention tips:

• Feed two or three smaller meals per day instead of one large one

• Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent eating too fast

• Avoid vigorous exercise immediately before or after meals

• Do not elevate food bowls (research has shown this increases risk, not decreases it)