Gastric dilatation and volvulas (GDV) is a very serious condition which can result in sudden death. It is a multifactorial condition, however predisposing factors include: deep chested dogs and dogs that eat a large meal and are the active immediately after eating. GDV’s usually occur suddenly and death is acute. Generally most patients are presented to the veterinarian too late, due to the sudden onset of the condition.
“Fritz” a 6 year old German Wire Haired Pointer owes his life to his very attentive parents. “Fritz” was presented at our clinic on the 23rd of February after his owners noticed a few relatively sudden changes in his condition. When he started salivating severely and his abdomen became bloated, his owners rushed him in to our clinic. The x-rays showed a severely gas distended stomach, luckily there was no torsion and the stomach could be deflated by passing a stomach tube. Later that evening “Fritz” was rushed back as his abdomen had become distended again, and he had started vomiting. Emergency surgery was performed. After the 2 hour surgery “Fritz” made a remarkable recovery. He started eating the next day and two days later he showed us that he was ready to go home by digging up the practice gardens.
“Fritz” is an extremely special dog and we are thankful once again for owners who care this much for their furry children.
We want to thank Mr. & Mrs. Nienaber for being so attentive and for being willing to do what was necessary to save “Fritz’s” life. We wish them and “Fritz” lots of happiness in the future.
