GDV in dogs: what to do
GDV is an ER surgical emergency. Your job is recognition and rapid transport — not home treatment.
Do this first
| Scenario | Bloat / GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus) |
|---|---|
| Vet vs poison control vs ER | This is an ER surgical emergency, not a poison-control case. Do not delay for a hotline consult unless a toxin was also involved. Minutes matter. |
Immediate action steps
- Recognize unproductive retching, hard swollen belly, and distress as an emergency
- Do not offer food, water, or attempt home decompression
- Call the nearest ER while leaving immediately
- Keep the dog calm during transport
- Tell triage you are concerned about GDV/bloat
Why speed changes outcomes
Twisted stomachs compromise blood flow. Minutes are not dramatic language here — they are logistics.
Calling ahead lets the hospital prepare imaging and surgical staff.
What not to do
No rolling the dog to “untwist,” no poking the belly with needles, no human medications.
If the dog collapses, continue to the ER and say that on the phone.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- Is GDV the same as regular bloat?
- People use “bloat” loosely. GDV implies volvulus (twist). Either way, this presentation needs the ER.