Gastroscopy in Dogs: What You Need to Know53

Gastroscopy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that allows veterinarians to visualize the lining of the dog's stomach and upper part of the small intestine. It is commonly used to diagnose and treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including stomach ulcers, tumors, and foreign body ingestion.

Before undergoing gastroscopy, dogs must be fasted for 12-18 hours. This is to ensure that the stomach is empty and that there is no food or liquid present which could interfere with the visualization.

The dog will be anesthetized for the procedure. Once the dog is anesthetized, the veterinarian will insert a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end into the dog's mouth and down into the stomach. The camera will transmit images of the stomach lining to a monitor, allowing the veterinarian to visualize the stomach and upper small intestine.

Gastroscopy is a relatively safe procedure, but there are some potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, including bleeding, infection, and perforation of the stomach or intestine. The risk of complications is higher in dogs that are already sick or have a history of gastrointestinal problems.

After the procedure, the dog will be monitored for any complications. The dog may be given antibiotics to prevent infection, and pain medication to relieve any discomfort. The dog should be kept quiet and calm for 24 hours following the procedure, and should be fed a bland diet for several days.

Gastroscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for veterinarians. It can help to diagnose and treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues in dogs, and can be used to remove foreign bodies and perform biopsies.

Additional Considerations* Pre-operative blood work: Before undergoing gastroscopy, your dog will likely need to undergo blood work to ensure that they are healthy enough for the procedure.
* Intravenous fluids: During the procedure, your dog will be given intravenous fluids to help maintain their blood pressure and hydration.
* Monitoring: Your dog will be closely monitored during and after the procedure for any complications.
* Recovery: Your dog will likely be discharged from the hospital the same day as the procedure. They should be kept quiet and calm for 24 hours, and should be fed a bland diet for several days.
* Follow-up: Your veterinarian will likely want to see your dog for a follow-up examination within a few days of the procedure to check on their progress.

CostThe cost of gastroscopy in dogs can vary depending on the region, the veterinarian, and the complexity of the procedure. The average cost of gastroscopy in dogs is between $500 and $1,000.

2024-12-01

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