Dakodah is a stunning Great Dane Cross now recovered from her emergency GDV (gastric dilatation and volvulus) and gastropexy surgery. But, being a Great Dane and having a deep chest is her curse. Sadly, about 40% if not more of her breed will have a GDV in their lifetime.

The other large breeds such as the German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Basset Hounds, Weimaraner’s and Irish Setters have a similar risk profile.

The gastropexy is a very good preventative component of the surgery. By tacking the stomach to the right side of the body wall it holds the stomach into place. This prevents it from spinning around, twisting again causing the GDV.

Some owners get this surgery done as a preventative measure.

We have talked about GDV before, but the most common signs are: heavy breathing and panting, very restless, very tense in abdomen and usually they won’t eat or drink.

‘The take home message is if you notice abnormal behaviour its worth getting it checked out as soon as possible’.