BRASELTON, Ga., Sept. 04, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Braselton animal hospital and veterinarian Animal Emergency Care of Braselton is warning area pet owners about the hazards of warm weather temperatures to their dogs. Pets exposed to heat can become dehydrated and eventually suffer from a condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or hot weather bloats.

Georgia summers are known for being hot and humid, and this one is no exception. The Braselton area is set to have high temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s for the rest of the summer, and the heat and humidity can often continue into the autumn season.

Gastric dilatation-volvulus is a digestive emergency characterized by dangerous bloating of the stomach area indicative of internal issues. Large, deep-chested breeds of dogs such as Great Danes are at the highest risk, but any active dog can become afflicted. Older pets have an even higher risk of GDV.
 
Exposure to hot and humid temperatures can have a cumulative effect over time. Care should be taken to allow pets to cool off in air conditioned rooms or by going swimming. However, a major cause of summer bloat is not providing the pet with enough food and water to eat and drink regularly. If they become extremely thirsty or hungry, they will gulp down food and water when they finally receive it. This can lead to the trapping of air in the gut. Animals should be given access to food and water regularly throughout the day to reduce the chances that they will gulp.

GDV is characterized by observable bloating caused by pets’ tendency to take in breaths of air as they eat, drink or pant. Hot weather bloats also involve internal twisting and expansion of the animal’s stomach. When the air is not released as gas, their stomachs begin to expand. This can in turn impair blood flow and circulation, leading to increased pressure on the diaphragm and lungs.

If the stomach twists, the passage of air and food will also be impossible. Blood flow to the heart can be impaired, and the stomach is also in danger of rupturing. If the condition becomes severe enough, emergency surgery will be required. Fortunately, Braselton veterinarian Animal Emergency Care of Braselton can provide life-saving surgery for pets afflicted with GDV.

Dr. Amy Young warns, “Watch for signs like a distended belly, discomfort, anxiousness, and an inability to vomit. Pets that become dehydrated and hungry are at an elevated risk for GDV.”

Animal Emergency Care of Braselton is located in Suite #2A at 2095 GA-211 in Braselton, Georgia. Those in the public who wish to learn more about the veterinary clinic or book an appointment for their pet may do so by calling (470) 209-7222. Additional information about the practice may also be found on the website at http://braseltonervet.com/.

Animal Emergency Care of Braselton, (470) 209-7222

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