Hi

I have a book "Greyhound" by Juliette Cunliffe of the series PetLove (a book each for many breeds).  Anyway, on page 132 the following information on Ways to Prevent Bloat are as follows:

Gastric torsion or bloat is a preventable killer of dogs.  We know that bloat affects more large and deep-chested dogs than any other dogs.  Bloat can be defined as the rapid accumulation of air in the stomach, causing it to twist or flip over, thereby blocking the exit and entrance. A dog suffering from bloat experiences acute pain and is unable to release the gas.  Here are some excellent recommendations to prevent this life-threatening condition.

• Do not provide water at mealtimes, especially for dogs that commonly drink large amounts of water.
  
• Keep your dog at their proper weight.  Avoid overfeeding.
  
• Limit exercise one hour before and after mealtime.
  
• Avoid stressful or vigorous exercise altogether.
  
• Provide antacids for any dog with audible stomach motions (borborygmus) of flatulance.
  
• Feed two or three smaller meals instead of one large meal per day.
  
• Serve your dog's food on a bowl stand so that he does not need to crane his/her neck to eat.
  
• Be certain that mealtime is a non-stressful time.  Feed dog alone where he/she is not competing with a canine or feline housemate for his bowl.
  
• For a big gulper, place large toys in his/her dog bowl so that portions cannot be gulped.
  
• Discuss bloat prevention and preventative surgical methods with vet.
  
• If changing dog's diet, do so gradually.
  
• Recognise the symptoms of bloat, as time is of the essence.  Syptoms include pacing, whining, retching (with no reslut), groaning, obvious discomfort.

Greyhound - Juliette Cunliffe

Fiddie, Andy & side-kick Iluska