Two researchers have launched an online survey to obtain information relevant to bloat, a condition in which a dog has a distended stomach. The literature on bloat points in many directions, which has not brought breeders any closer to a solution, according to researchers Carmen Battaglia, Ph.D, of the American Kennel Club and Cynthia Otto, DVM, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The aim of the survey is to look at conditions relevant to the further study of the disease. The survey is open to veterinarians, dog owners and breeders who have a dog that has bloated. The survey also asks for information on dogs that haven’t bloated. More than 2,000 responses have been collected, Dr. Otto said. The researchers hope to have at least 5,000 responses by the anticipated end date of September. To take the survey, visit BreedingBetterDogs.com and click on “Bloat Survey.” A summary of the results will be posted on the website in November.
