Spring Into Safety: Bloat Awareness
As temperatures begin to rise in May and we head into the warmer months, it’s important for dog owners to stay alert to seasonal health risks. One serious and potentially life-threatening condition that becomes especially relevant during warmer weather is bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).
As temperatures begin to rise in May and we head into the warmer months, it’s important for dog owners to stay alert to seasonal health risks. One serious and potentially life-threatening condition that becomes especially relevant during warmer weather is bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).
Bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, causing it to expand. In severe cases (GDV), the stomach can twist, cutting off blood flow and trapping contents inside. This situation escalates quickly and requires immediate veterinary attention.
As we head into the summer months, several seasonal changes can contribute to a higher likelihood of bloat:
Increased Activity Levels
Dogs tend to be more active in warmer weather. Running, jumping, or playing intensely—especially shortly before or after eating—can increase the risk of stomach twisting.
Changes in Eating and Drinking Habits
Hot weather often leads to increased water intake. While hydration is essential, drinking large amounts of water too quickly (especially around mealtime) can contribute to stomach expansion.
Altered Routines
Spring and summer schedules can be less structured. Travel, outdoor events, and irregular feeding times may disrupt your dog’s normal digestion patterns.
Heat and Stress
Heat itself can stress a dog’s body. Combined with excitement (like visitors, trips, or new environments), stress may play a role in triggering bloat in susceptible dogs.
Bloat can develop rapidly, sometimes within hours. Knowing the signs can save your dog’s life:
A swollen or distended abdomen
Restlessness or pacing
Unsuccessful attempts to vomit
Excessive drooling
Rapid breathing or signs of discomfort
Weakness or collapse (in severe cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
There are practical steps you can take to reduce the risk:
Avoid Exercise Around Mealtime
Wait at least 30–60 minutes before and after meals before allowing vigorous activity.
Encourage Slow Eating and Drinking
Use slow-feed bowls or puzzle feeders to prevent gulping. Offer water regularly, but discourage rapid over consumption.
Limit Stress During Hot Weather
Provide a cool, calm environment, especially during peak heat hours. Avoid overexertion and keep outdoor activities moderate.
May marks the beginning of a more active, outdoor-focused season—but it’s also a time to stay mindful of hidden health risks like bloat. By keeping routines consistent, monitoring your dog’s behavior, and making small adjustments to feeding and activity habits, you can help ensure your dog stays safe and happy as temperatures rise.
References:
Summer Heat and Your Dog
Bloat in Dogs
How To Check Your Pets for Ticks and Fleas
Keeping your pet healthy and comfortable means being proactive about potential pests like ticks and fleas, especially if they are outdoors often.
Pet-related fleas and ticks are common parasites that live on animals like dogs and cats, feeding on their blood. Fleas can cause itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions, while ticks are known for transmitting diseases. These tiny parasites can cause big problems if left unnoticed, so knowing how to check your pet regularly is essential.
Supplies:
Tick Remover (left) and Flea Comb (right)
Flea Comb
Tick Remover/Tweezers
Magnifying glass (optional)
Gloves (optional)
Container/Bags (to place tick after removal)
Check Skin:
Ticks often attach themselves firmly to the skin.
Gently feel through your pet’s coat with your fingers, then run a flea comb through your pet’s fur, especially in thick or long areas. Fleas can get trapped in the comb’s teeth, allowing you to remove them. This will not only help you spot them but will also give you a chance to see any signs of irritation.
Fleas: Look for small, deep brown or black specks moving in the fur. You might also see "flea dirt," which are tiny black specks that look like ground pepper.
Ticks: Ticks are larger, often gray, or brown, and can be the size of a sesame seed or larger when engorged with blood. They might be found attached to your pet’s skin, typically around the ears, around their eyes, underarms, bellies, or between the toes.
NexGard is a once monthly chewable supplement that prevents and protects dogs from ticks, fleas and parasites.
Removing Fleas and Ticks:
For Fleas: If you find fleas, use a flea shampoo, or consult your vet about the best flea treatments. You can also use flea medication or collars as a preventive measure.
For Ticks: Use a pair of tweezers or a tick-removal tool to grab the tick close to your pet’s skin and pull it out gently, placing it into a sealed bag/container so that it does not escape. Avoid twisting the tick to prevent leaving parts of the tick behind. Dispose of the tick properly and monitor the bite site for any signs of infection.
After handling ticks, fleas, or anything your pet may have been exposed to, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
References:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/how-check-dog-ticks
https://www.banfield.com/Wellness-at-banfield/Skin-and-coat-care/How-to-check-for-fleas