[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter] This is a real combination of symptoms that spells out EMERGENCY. These are the classic symptoms of a condition referred to as "bloat" - an extremely dangerous condition. If you notice these 3 combined symptoms in your dog, seek treatment immediately: • PACING • RESTLESSNESS • UNPRODUCTIVE ATTEMPTS TO VOMIT Bloat is a common problem in large breed deep chested dogs but can also occur in smaller dogs. Basically what happens is this. The stomach twists causing the blood supply to the stomach to be compromised, which leads to tissue death. As tissues are damaged, toxins are released and a sequence of events occurs that, if left untreated, leads to death. If you ever notice these symptoms in your dog, call your local veterinarian or emergency clinic as soon as possible. This is a condition that is fairly common and often occurs in the evening or nighttime hours. It is also a very expensive condition to treat. I was at a local emergency clinic the other night and they had two dogs with bloat there at the same time. Buster, an 11-year-old mixed breed, was euthanized because his owners didn't have the money to treat him. The other dog was a 6-year-old German shepherd that was treated and saved with surgery. She was doing well when last I talked to the clinic. It is not uncommon for this hospitalization, treatment, surgery, etc. to cost over $2,000 and even up to $5,000. That is a LOT of money. If this type of unplanned expense would also be a lot for you - consider pet insurance. See if it is right for you. Also, keep the phone numbers of your vet and your local veterinary emergency clinic on your frig or in some central location so you will have it in the case of an emergency. Most pet owners are very upset and flustered when something happens and having the number handy can really help. Until next time, Dr. Jon |
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