Pet Health Information
What You Need to Know About Pet Wellness During Travel
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When it comes to relocating your pet, knowing what to watch for during and after travel is key. Our goal is to help you stay informed about potential health risks, especially those that can develop after long journeys. One serious condition to be aware of is Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), which can affect certain dog breeds during or after travel. Here’s what you need to know.
Bloat, AKA Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
• Exercises immediately after eating;
• Ingests large amounts of air while rapidly drinking water; or
• Pants heavily due to anxiety or excitement.
The most obvious symptoms are
• An enlarged abdomen,
• Laboured breathing,
• Excessive drooling,
• Vomiting,
• A weak pulse, and
• Paleness in the nose and mouth.
Your dog may arrive dehydrated- this is common after a long journey. In order to prevent GDV, we recommend you rehydrate your pet slowly according to these instructions:
• Start with a small amount of water.
• Slightly increase the amount of water every 30 minutes until your dog is fully hydrated.
• Resist the urge to exercise your dog after they ingest water or food.
GDV can be lethal. If your dog has the symptoms of GDV, we recommend you take your dog to the nearest animal emergency hospital, as vet clinics do not always have the means to surgically deal with GDV. This condition progresses rapidly, and every minute counts when it comes to treatment. Prompt intervention can significantly improve survival rates. Symptoms may include a swollen abdomen, retching without vomit, restlessness, or signs of pain. If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait-emergency care is critical. Always know where your nearest 24-hour animal hospital is, especially if you’re travelling or relocating with your pet.