Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) “Bloat”

Bloat is probably one of the most serious conditions seen in dogs. Immediate Vetirinary attention (within minutes to a few hours)  is required to save the dog's life. Bloat still kills about 30 percent of the dogs it affects, even after extremely intensive treatment. Commonly referred to as "bloat," GDV occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and subsequently twists. Bloat can come without warning, but there are some warning signs: restlessness, pacing, swollen or distended abdomen, painful abdomen, overall look of distress, retching or attempts to vomit with no success, excessive drooling, panting or rapid breathing, and collapse/inability to stand. There is only one method to 100% prevent bloat and that is getting a surgery done called a gastropexy.

Things I never do to prevent bloat.

I never let my dogs eat more than two cups at a time, never allow them to become over-exerted (1-2 hours) before or after feeding, and I never let them chug water.

Things I do to prevent bloat.

My dogs eat out of a slow feeder, they get frequent small meals versus one large meal, and food/water intake is always monitored.