Basset Hound Diseases and Conditions - Bloat (Gastric Dilatation)

Bloat is a condition in which a dog's stomach fills up with swallowed air and then rotates. It is a serious condition that may quickly result in death because once the stomach has rotated, the blood supply is cut off and the dog's condition deteriorates very rapidly.

Air is swallowed during exercise or strenuous activities or when a dog gulps food or water. While it is normal to swallow air, it is also normal to release it through a burp. Bloat develops when a dog is unable to release the air. Large breeds with deep, narrow chests are prone to this condition including the Basset Hound.

Signs
Immediate veterinary care is necessary when one or more of the following occurs:

• Swollen belly and non-productive vomiting and retching
• Restlessness
• Abdominal pain
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Profuse drooling

Prevention
The following preventative measures are recommended:

• Feed your Basset two or three small meals per day instead of one large meal.
• Remove drinking water during meals and wait a while after meal time before offering water again.
• Avoid vigorous exercise and excitement before and after meals.
• Let your Basset eat in a calm environment, i.e. not in the presence of other pets and / or children.
• Consider using a slow feed dog bowl or another method if your dog has a habit of gulping his food down.
• Find out if there is a history of bloat in your Basset's lineage because if there is, then your Basset may be more prone to the condition.