What should I do if my dog's stomach is swollen? - briefly
If your dog's stomach appears swollen, it could indicate a serious condition such as bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), which is a medical emergency. Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic for professional advice and prompt treatment.
What should I do if my dog's stomach is swollen? - in detail
If you notice that your dog's stomach appears swollen, it is important to take immediate action as this can be indicative of several serious health issues. Here are the steps you should follow:
-
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: Firstly, remain calm to avoid stressing your dog further. Observe your dog's behavior and overall condition. Note any other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
-
Check for Visible Causes: Gently feel the abdomen to determine if there is any tenderness or pain. Look for any external signs like foreign objects that your dog might have ingested, such as toys or bones. If you find something, do not attempt to remove it yourself as this could cause further harm.
-
Contact Your Veterinarian: Immediately call your veterinarian and describe the symptoms. They may ask you to bring your dog in for an emergency examination. Be prepared to provide details about any recent changes in diet, activity, or environment that might have contributed to the swelling.
-
Do Not Give Food or Water: Avoid giving your dog any food or water until instructed by your veterinarian. Ingesting anything could exacerbate the condition and potentially lead to more serious issues like bloat, which is a life-threatening emergency in dogs.
-
Monitor Your Dog's Breathing: Keep an eye on your dog’s breathing. If it becomes rapid or labored, this could indicate a serious issue such as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat. This condition requires immediate veterinary attention.
-
Prepare for Transport: Have a plan ready to transport your dog to the vet. If possible, have someone else drive so you can stay with your dog and monitor their condition during the journey.
-
Follow Veterinarian Instructions: Once at the vet, follow all instructions given by the veterinary team. They may need to perform various tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or blood work to diagnose the cause of the swelling. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options could range from medication and fluid therapy to emergency surgery.
-
Post-Treatment Care: After receiving care, ensure you follow any post-treatment instructions provided by your veterinarian. This might include dietary changes, administering medications, or scheduling follow-up appointments.
Swollen stomachs in dogs can be caused by a variety of issues including gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), foreign body ingestion, internal bleeding, or even certain types of tumors. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.