advise on tacking stomach on large dogs

[Cara]

Thanks Redhen. She was a really good dog, if completely rotten.

Ours had an upset tummy for a few days after the surgery, but it cleared up quickly with some meds. Not entirely sure whether it was a result of the gastropexy or the surgery in general.

 

[MsMcChick]

The best way i've heard to describe bloat, for a visual, is to fill a balloon only 1/4 full with water, don't tie it shut, then grab both ends of the balloon and swing it around in a circle (as a big dog would do if they exercised, even minimally, after eating or drinking). The middle of the balloon is heavier (like a doggie stomach with food or water in it) which twists off the middle from both ends where the gas/feces could escape from the stomach. Thus creating a gas chamber, and as you know, gas cramps are bad, but holy cow, can you imagine NO gas ever escaping because the stomach is twisted completely off on both ends? And remember if the gas doesn't escape, it grows and expands, stretching the stomach unbearably. I have seen the pain caused by this, it comes on quick and is horrible for the pet. Hope this helps with your decision. Good luck. ~Tracy

 

[scarter]

I've made the decision. It's worth the extra 150 do get this done. My SIL who is a vet said I should go ahead and do it since she is already opened up. Too bad she lives in NY and I live in MN.

 

[MsMcChick]

good luck, your pet will thank you even if your checkbook is sad

~Tracy