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There are many ways to help dogs who are at risk for gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV). One of those ways is through a prophylactic gastropexy. This procedure is designed to help reduce the chances of dogs developing the condition, to provide safety for your pet, and more peace of mind for you. If you're in the McMurray, PA, area and in need of an animal hospital to perform this procedure, contact us at Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic today. We're here to help your pet live a healthy, happy, long life.

Which Dogs May Need This Procedure?

A prophylactic gastropexy is typically an option for large breed and giant breed dogs that have deep chests. These include Irish Wolfhounds, Great Danes, and Weimaraners. The reason this procedure can be needed for dogs like this is that their shape and size gives them a predisposition toward GVD, which is also commonly called "bloat." This condition is life-threatening. If it occurs, it requires emergency surgery. Even with the surgery, the condition is still quite often fatal.

What Is a Prophylactic Gastropexy?

A prophylactic procedure is one that is performed before a problem occurs, in order to reduce the chances of the problem. In other words, it's a type of preventative medicine. When your dog has a prophylactic gastropexy, it's aimed at preventing GDV. This is done through tacking the stomach to the abdominal wall or diaphragm. While that may sound uncomfortable, it's a relatively easy procedure for your pet to go through and it can help save his life and protect him from future harm, as well.

Is the Procedure Safe and Effective?

The procedure is very safe and highly effective. It's minimally invasive, and only requires two small incisions. Cameras are used to look inside the abdominal cavity, which eliminates the need for a larger incision. Many people have this procedure performed by their veterinarians at the same time they have their pets spayed or neutered. Prophylactic gastropexies are recommended by our animal hospital for large breed and giant breed dogs, as well as those with a history of food bloating or relatives with GDV.

Choose Trusted Veterinarians to Care for Your Pet

If you're considering this procedure for your dog, or you have questions about it, contact us today at Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic. We want to help pets in the McMurray, PA, area live long, healthy lives. For large breed and giant breed dogs, the right procedures can help with that. Not only does it reduce the risk of harm for your pet, but it's good at giving you peace of mind and helping you know you're giving your dog the very best care and support he can get for a good future.

 

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