[pyrnet] Re: pyrnet-l-digest.20091106-1

["Manny Fernandez, Jr." <drmanny3@cox.net>]

BTW does the vet recommend the preventative surgery for all Pyrs or for 
relatives of dogs who have had bloat?Â

Amy with Charlie, Sweetie and Harry Pugger

The Vet Hospital we took Athena to is renowned in the area.  It was 9 pm 
Sunday night.  They had a very experienced Vet surgeon who was very familiar 
with gastric torsion.  She told us that they now (for about 3 or 4 years) 
perform a minimally invasive surgery that can prevent torsions.  They even 
recommend that it be done when a dog is being neutered.  We were aware of 
Bloat but did not know that there was a preventative surgery.  Any large 
chest dog like German Sheppard, Great Pyr, Great Dane, etcetera.  Just never 
really understood.  We free feed Athena and since we give her Purina One 
Sensitive Stomach with the main ingredient Salmon, we have never had a 
problem with her gulping her food.  If anything she is underweight.

We think now that the long trip home (6 hours) where she stood most of the 
time (by choice) and drank from a bowl may have contributed to a lot of air 
being trapped.   When we got home I gave her some ice water which she likes. 
She really drank it up.  Then she went outside.  We heard her bark (typical 
of pyrs) which may have indicated that she was running in the yard.  So 
perhaps all the trapped gas in her stomach and the large amount of water 
intake moments before contributed.  Just don't know.   The vet is not sure 
what made it happen either.  You are right most people don't catch it.  It 
was my wife who noticed something odd.  Thank you for your concern.  Athena 
just had her first bowl movement this morning, approximately 4 1/2 days 
following the surgery.  We were so happy (go figure).  She now seems to be 
more of herself.  We have dropped the pain medication in half to see if that 
helps here functionally.  The best to all of you.
Manny