- Processed grain-based pet foods: Dogs have evolved to eat meat. Their teeth are designed to rip and sheer (not grind like herbivores). Their stomachs have a higher pH level to help resist bacteria. And the musculature of the stomach is designed to be strong enough to break down proteins. Processed grain-based pet foods cause the stomach muscles to weaken (due to lack of proper use). Weak muscles can lead to gas build-up that causes gastric dilation volvulus (GDV).
- Feed raw bones: raw poultry, lamb or other small bones can help maintain strong stomach muscles and thus reduce the chance of distention. Note that the bones must be raw and the correct kind.
- Time fruit feedings: Unlike protein, fruit breaks down much faster. If fed with protein, it can break down to the point where it produces gases that can exacerbate GDV. Feed your dog fruit one hour or longer before a meal or more than four hours after.
- Exercise at the right time: When a dog's stomach is full, it is more likely to twist and flip. Thus, you should not exercise your dog vigorously for 3 to 4 hours after feeding.
- Provide the right nutrients: Peter Dobias' Healing Store has a number of recommendations for supplements that can help prevent or treat various mineral deficiencies.
- Prevent spinal injuries: There may be a connection between various spinal problems and GDV. So, you should try to avoid excessive ball throwing, sprinting, and jumping to protect your dog from injury.
How to Prevent Stomach Bloat or Gastric Dilation Volvulus in Dogs
Dr. Peter Dobias, our local expert on holistic animal healthcare, has published a number of interesting articles on his blog that help to educate pet owners on various treatments and methods of prevention of some common pet ailments. He recently published an article that talks about the factors that contribute to stomach bloat or gastric dilation volvulus (GDV) in dogs. He also includes a number of tips that can help owners relieve their dogs of this problem.
The following is a summary of Peter Dobais' article title "Stomach Bloat – Gastric Dilation Volvulus in Dogs – Holistic Approach".
