What is GVD in Dogs?

So what is GVD in dogs? Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GVD) is a life-threatening condition that affects dogs. You might have heard it called bloat too. But no matter what you call it, this is a serious condition every dog parent should know about.

Understanding Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GVD)

GVD, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a condition that occurs when your pet's stomach fills up with gas and then twists. Think of it like blowing up a balloon and then twisting it: it's not supposed to happen, and it's not good.

How Dangerous Is It?

GVD is a life-threatening emergency for dogs. When the stomach twists, it can cut off blood flow, causing damage to the stomach tissue and other organs. This can happen quickly, and if not treated ASAP, it can be fatal.

Signs and Symptoms

How do you know if your pup might have GVD? Look out for these signs:

Swollen Belly: If your dog 's tummy looks bigger than usual and feels tight or hard, that's a red flag. If they experience pain when you touch their abdomen, this is another clue that GVD may be to blame.
Unsuccessful Vomiting: Your dog might try to throw up but can't. It's like they 're trying to, but nothing comes out.
Restlessness or Discomfort: If your furry buddy seems anxious, paces, or generally is just not themselves, something might be wrong. Restlessness can be one of the first symptoms you notice. Go through the list of these symptoms and see if your pet is experiencing any others and if so, or if your gut is telling you something is wrong, go immediately to the vet or emergency hospital.
Excessive Drooling: More drool than usual: a lot more: is a sign too.
Rapid Breathing: Panting excessively or breathing really fast could be a sign of trouble brewing.
Collapse or Inability to Stand: Any time your pet can't stand properly or collapses, it's an emergency. Call our offices right away or go to an emergency veterinarian if it's after hours.

Preventing GVD

Now, let's talk about the good stuff: how to keep your pup safe from GVD:

Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of one big meal, split their daily food into smaller portions.

Slow Down Eating: If your dog scarfs down food really quickly, consider using slow-feed bowls or puzzle toys to make them take it easy.
Avoid Exercise After Meals: No marathons after eating, okay? Let your dog relax for a bit after meals to prevent their stomach from flipping over.
Limit Water During Meals: It's best not to let your furry friend gulp down a ton of water right after eating. Give them some time before refilling the bowl.

What is the Prognosis?

Without treatment, dogs with GVD will not survive. Time is of the essence with GVD. Dogs who have had symptoms for more than six hours are more likely to have complications. Other factors that increase the likelihood of complications include if a portion of the stomach has to be removed because the blood supply has been cut off. Additionally, if the spleen has to be removed, or if the dog has a history of cardiac arrhythmias complications are more likely to occur.

Dogs at Risk

Remember, GVD can happen to any dog, but some breeds are more at risk: big dogs with deep chests like Great Danes, German Shepherds, or Boxers. If you notice any of those signs or suspect something 's off, don't wait. Get your dog into Cimarron Animal Hospital or another emergency vet right away.

Take Care of Your Pet

Being a dog parent means watching out for their well-being. Now that you know what is GVD in dogs, stay aware, take precautions, and give your dog all the love and care they deserve. Contact Cimarron Animal Hospital if you have any questions about your pet's health or to schedule routine exams. Most importantly, if you notice signs of GVD, contact us right away, or take them to an after-hours emergency veterinarian.

Is My Cat Sick?

Cats, because of their tendency to hide illnesses, can be sick for a period of time before their owner realizes there is a problem. By the time an owner asks, "Is my cat sick?", the cat can be extremely sick.

Signs Your Cat Might Be Ill

As with any illness, it's best if it can be caught early. Below are some signs that your feline friend might not be feeling their best.

Behavior Changes - Sick cats may start to hide more often or stop doing the things they usually do like grooming. Remember that even if a cat is purring, it still can be sick. Watch for behaviors that just aren't normal for your cat.

Issues Eating or Drinking - Again, watch for abnormal behavior with eating and drinking. Is your cat suddenly experiencing extreme hunger or thirst? Cats are susceptible to diabetes and kidney disease and problems with eating and drinking can indicate these issues.

Problems with Poop or Urination - Like humans, sometimes cats have issues with their urinary tracts. However, in cats, a urinary tract infection or blockage can be life-threatening. If you notice your cat having issues with frequent, sudden urination or you see them straining in the litterbox, it's time to see the doctor.

Problems with diarrhea or constipation are also common in cats. If you notice blood in their stools, or they have watery diarrhea, or are experiencing diarrhea and showing other signs of being ill, it's time to take them to our office!

Discolored Gums and Fever - If your cat isn't acting like themselves, you can check their gums to see if they are normal or discolored. Normal gums will be pink and when pressed, should return to pink quickly. Gums that are blue, red, or yellow are indicators of life-threatening health issues and the cat should be taken to the vet right away.

You can also check if a cat is sick by taking their temperature. The normal temperature of a cat is 100-103 degrees. If the temperature is above or below that average, you should contact the vets at Cimarron Animal Hospital right away.

Taking Care of Your Sick Cats

Cats can be snuggly or stand-offish, in your space, or off on their own. The important thing is that you pay attention and if their behavior seems unusual, and you're wondering "Is my cat sick, ' you should contact us to see if there is an issue.

Can I get coronavirus from my dog or cat?

Who Can Get Coronavirus?

The COVID-19 pandemic is top of mind for most people and the recent case of a tiger at the Bronx Zoo testing positive for the disease has people asking, "Can I get coronavirus from my dog or cat?"

It's understandable to be concerned. However, the answer, according to the World Health Organization, is no: COVID-19 does not seem to transmit from pet to human. However, there are indications, like the Bronx Zoo situation, that the disease may be passed from humans to their pets. It should be noted, according to the CDC, there are no reported cases of pets becoming infected with COVID-19 in the United States.

Unfortunately, the fear of contracting COVID-19 has led to some people abandoning their animals or surrendering them to shelters. This is not necessary and puts a terrible strain on the already burdened shelter and rescue system.

How Does Coronavirus Spread?

COVID-19 is spread through droplets resulting from coughing or sneezing. People can catch coronavirus from touching surfaces that are contaminated, and then touching their face. Alternatively, breathing the air in which someone has coughed or sneezed can also spread COVID-19. As a result of how the virus spreads, the CDC recently recommended people wear masks in addition to social distancing. Masks will help when people are out in public, or cannot safely distance themselves from other people

There isn't evidence of dogs being infected from a human, but cats, such as the tigers, might be susceptible. The evidence indicates that pets are at low risk for catching the virus from you. However, if you are sick, it's best to let someone else feed and water your pets. In addition to this, and as tempting as it is, avoid snuggles until you are well

Can I give COVID-19 to my pet?

Pets don't need to wear masks, but there are other ways you can help keep them safe. You can protect your pet from coronavirus by washing your hands before touching your pet and their food. As a rule, always wash your hands after handling your pet or picking up pet waste as well. Good handwashing practices will help prevent the spread of the virus in general. In addition, when you walk your pet, it is advised to wipe off their paws afterward before they come into the house.

How will I know if my pet is sick?

There are no routine tests for pets and COVID-19 currently being conducted in the United States. If your pet is sick, it is most likely that they have a more common illness. Regardless, if your pet is sick, you should contact your veterinarian who may provide treatment through telehealth technology.

At Cimarron Animal Hospital, we are scheduling appointments only for sick and injured animals right now. Our process includes contacting our office and waiting in your car until a staff member can come to get you. We are asking that one person per family come in with the pet to help limit exposure for our clients and our staff.

COVID-19 has changed the world in significant ways, but as of now, the question of "can I get coronavirus from my dog or cat?" is no. If you have questions about coronavirus and pets, go to the CDC's website for accurate, up-to-date information.