Gross Pathological Study of Gastric Dilatation in a Labrador Dog

Gastric dilatation is an acute, life-threatening medical emergency that requires prompt medical attention for a successful outcome. The carcass of a one-year-and-one-month-old male Labrador Retriever dog was presented to the Department of Veterinary Pathology, Madras Veterinary College, TANUVAS, Chennai-600 007 for necropsy. The dog had a history of salivation, retching, abdominal distension, and recurrent bloat for one month. A thorough necropsy was conducted, and the observed gross lesions were documented. Significant stomach dilatation accompanied by severe congestion of the gastric mucosa was noted. The intestines revealed congestion and were filled with yellow-colored contents. Mild hepatomegaly, along with congestion on the serosal surface, was observed in the liver. The heart chambers contained clotted blood, and the kidney capsules were easily peeled off, revealing mild congestion on the cortical surface. Splenomegaly was evident, accompanied by severe congestion. Based on the history and gross pathological findings, the confirmed cause of death was attributed to gastric dilatation, compounded by shock.