Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital’s Blog

Dog bloat is the second leading cause of death among canine companions, so it’s vital to know what this condition is and how it can be prevented. While it’s not a risk that can be vaccinated against, the signs of dog bloat can be intercepted by vigilant owners. If treated immediately, you and your dog will enjoy many more years and snuggles together.

What is GDV?

Dog bloat is known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), which refers to the buildup of unreleased gas in the stomach. This happens as a result of the stomach twisting 360 degrees, cutting off the esophagus and the duodenum. If gas, fluid, and food are unable to move out of the stomach – and your pet does not receive emergency care – the blood supply can get cut off, resulting in death. Continue…

After the late spring outbreak of canine influenza in the Midwest, many pet owners started to worry about their dogs and whether dog flu and other contagious diseases were a threat.

For many, illnesses such as kennel cough or canine flu haven’t been the most worrisome of diseases and therefore, this often resulted in a lax approach to vaccinations. Unfortunately, unvaccinated dogs are at risk for many illnesses and spread these to other dogs (and sometimes to other animals and humans, in the case of zoonotic illnesses). But, what about kennel cough and canine flu? Continue…