Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition that can affect dogs of all sizes, but primarily affects large and giant breed dogs. GDV is a disease of the stomach, where the stomach becomes distended (or bloated) with gas or fluid and then rotates on its axis. This twisting of the stomach leads to obstruction of the blood flow to the stomach and surrounding organs. This condition requires immediate life-saving veterinary treatment and surgery.

The exact cause of GDV is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

• Breed: Certain large and giant breed dogs are predisposed to GDV. Breeds who are breeds known to be at high risk include:
  • • Great Danes
    • German Shepherds
    • Standard Poodles
    • Weimaraners
    • Doberman Pinschers
    • Boxers
    • Irish Setters
    • Saint Bernards
    • Bloodhounds
    • Rottweilers
    • Labrador Retrievers
• Genetics: there is an increased risk if a first degree relative (ie parent, littermate or offspring) suffered a GDV
• Age: the risk of developing a GDV increases as a dog ages

• Diet: Rapid ingestion of large meals or exercising immediately after eating may increase the risk.
• Stress: Anxiety or stress may also play a role in GDV development.

A prophylactic gastropexy is a surgical procedure used to prevent a GDV from occurring. During the procedure the stomach wall is attached to the right side of the body wall. A small incision is made into the stomach wall, and another to the inside of the abdominal wall. These incisions are sutured together, and once healed, they will form a scar, permanently attaching the stomach in position. This procedure holds the stomach in place and is the most effective method available to prevent it from twisting and forming a GDV. This surgery can be performed concurrently with other procedures, and is commonly performed during a desexing or spey procedure. It is beneficial to perform this procedure during a desexing procedure as an abdominal procedure is already being performed and the risks of the procedure are low. It is important to note that this procedure cannot prevent bloating of the stomach. However, if the stomach does bloat, the life-threatening twisting will be prevented.