Dog stomach twisting, also known as stomach dilation-torsional or globe syndrome, is a serious, life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the stomach rolls over and blocks, causing increased pressure in the abdomen. It can be fatal without prompt intervention.
Avoid giving too much food all at once.
Avoid physical exercise after meals: wait at least one hour after eating before doing any activities.
Avoid using raised bowls to feed your dog, as this can promote the ingestion of air while eating, which can contribute to the development of stomach twisting.
Encourage slow eating: Use a bowl specially designed to slow down eating, such as the anti-glutton bowl.
Stay calm so as not to stress your dog and act quickly. Contact a veterinarian immediately to inform them of the situation and ask for advice. Be as specific as possible. Time is of the essence in these situations and prompt treatment can save your dog's life.
Do not attempt to treat it yourself: this can worsen the situation and cause additional complications.
Some dogs are more likely to develop stomach twisting due to genetic, morphological, and behavioral factors. Dog breeds at increased risk generally include large breeds with deep, narrow chests, such as:
However, it's important to note that while some breeds are more predisposed to stomach twisting, that doesn't mean that other breeds or smaller dogs are completely immune. Older dogs and those with a family history of stomach twisting are also considered to be at increased risk.
Track your dog's health and be warned of unusual behavior with the Jagger & Lewis collar.