Instructions
Look for initial symptoms associated with a painful abdomen: anxiety and discomfort, unwillingness to lie down, excessive drooling, and retching up a white, foamy liquid.
Examine the abdomen for swelling. Tap the dog's belly with a finger to test for a tight, drum-like feel. The swelling can occur farther up beneath the ribcage making this symptom more difficult to detect.
Lift the dog's lips and observe the gums. Bubblegum pink is a healthy color. Muddy-colored gums are a symptom of bloat. Press a finger to the gums, release and note how long it takes for the color to return to the gums. A time longer than one second indicates poor capillary refill caused by poor return blood flow to the heart.
Observe the dog's breathing. Pressure exerted against the diaphragm makes breathing difficult resulting in panting.
Seek immediate medical care from your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital.
How to Recognize and Provide Treatment for Canine Bloat
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus Syndrome, or bloat, is a life-threatening condition in dogs. During gastric dilation, the stomach fills with air placing pressure on the surrounding tissues. Volvulus occurs if the pressure is not relieved. The stomach twists blocking the blood supply and causing tissue death. Deep, narrow-chested dog are most susceptible. Bloat is associated with older dogs, dogs fed one daily meal, dogs that quickly eat their meals and lineages with a history of bloat. Anxious or aggressive dogs may be at a higher risk.