Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – Twisted Stomach in Hunting Dogs

As dog owners, we have all heard of bloat, twisted stomach, or, as your veterinarian would say, GDV. GDV stands for gastric dilatation-volvulus. This urgent medical condition occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and twists. This condition develops with almost no warning, can progress rapidly, and is always an emergency. Remember that “bloat” doesn’t always indicate a twisted stomach, or GDV, because bloat can be a large gas, food, or fluid-filled stomach without any twisting present. 

As a veterinarian and fellow birddogger, I want to stress the importance of discussing and planning for this preventable condition.