Gastropexy Surgery for Dogs

Preventative stomach-tacking surgery for dogs at higher risk of GDV/bloat.

At Spay Neuter Vets, we offer open incisional gastropexy for dogs who may be at increased risk of GDV, commonly known as bloat. Gastropexy is a surgical procedure that secures the stomach to the body wall to help reduce the risk of the stomach twisting, which is the most life-threatening part of GDV.

This procedure may be recommended for large, deep-chested dogs, certain breeds, or dogs with a body shape that puts them at higher risk. It can be performed as a standalone outpatient surgery or at the same time as a spay or neuter.

What Is a Gastropexy?

A gastropexy is a surgical procedure that “tacks” the stomach to the inside of the abdominal wall.

The goal is to help prevent the stomach from twisting if a dog experiences bloat. This is important because when the stomach twists, it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency.

Gastropexy does not prevent gas or bloating from happening, but it can help reduce the risk of the stomach rotating, which is the most dangerous part of GDV.

Why Would My Dog Need a Gastropexy?

Some dogs are more likely to develop GDV because of their breed, size, chest shape, or body conformation. Gastropexy is often considered for dogs who are large, deep-chested, or otherwise at higher risk.

This may include breeds such as:

• Great Danes

• German Shepherds

• Standard Poodles

• Doberman Pinschers

• Boxers

• Weimaraners

• Irish Setters

• Other large or deep-chested dogs

Your dog does not have to be one of these breeds to be considered. If your dog has a body type or history that may increase their risk, our surgical team can help determine whether gastropexy may be appropriate.

When Can a Gastropexy Be Performed?

At Spay Neuter Vets, gastropexy may be performed:

• At the same time as a spay or neuter

• As a standalone outpatient surgery

• For a stable dog with a prior history of bloat/GDV, if appropriate

• Your pet is at least six months old

We do not perform gastropexy during an active bloat or GDV emergency. If your dog is actively bloating, retching, distended, weak, painful, or collapsing, this is an emergency and your pet should go to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately.

Should I Combine Gastropexy With Spay or Neuter?

When appropriate, many clients choose to combine gastropexy with a spay or neuter because the pet is already under anesthesia and the abdomen is already being surgically accessed.

If your dog is not already spayed or neutered, we may recommend discussing whether combining procedures makes sense for your pet.

That said, we understand that every family has different goals for their pet. Spay or neuter is not required in order to request a gastropexy.

Is My Dog a Candidate?

Gastropexy may be appropriate for dogs who are:

• At least 6 months old

• Large, deep-chested, or otherwise at higher risk for GDV

• Stable and healthy enough for outpatient anesthesia

• Not experiencing an active emergency

• Cleared by our surgical team after review of their history

Pre-operative bloodwork is not required for every gastropexy patient. However, bloodwork may be recommended or required for senior pets or pets with medical concerns, depending on their age, history, and overall risk level.

What Type of Gastropexy Do You Perform?

Spay Neuter Vets performs an open incisional gastropexy.

This means the surgeon makes an abdominal incision, creates a controlled attachment between the stomach and the body wall, and closes the incision after the procedure is complete.

Our team will provide clear pre-operative instructions, surgical day expectations, and post-operative care guidance so you know what to expect before, during, and after your dog’s procedure.

What to Expect With Us

Our goal is to make the surgical process feel organized, clear, and supportive from the beginning.

Before Surgery

You will submit your pet’s information and any available medical history. Our team will review your dog’s age, breed, size, health history, and procedure needs before confirming next steps.

On Surgery Day

Your dog will be checked in by our team, receive anesthetic and surgical care, and be monitored through recovery. We will communicate with you throughout the process and let you know when your pet is ready to go home.

After Surgery

You will receive detailed discharge & medication instructions, including activity restriction, incision monitoring, and what to watch for during recovery. Our team is available to help answer post-operative questions during the recovery period.

Recovery After Gastropexy

Most dogs will need a calm, restricted recovery period after surgery.

Recovery usually includes:

• Limited activity

• No running, jumping, rough play, or swimming

• Wearing an e-collar or surgical recovery collar as directed

• Monitoring the incision daily

• Following all medication and feeding instructions

• Watching for vomiting, lethargy, swelling, discharge, or signs of discomfort

Because gastropexy involves abdominal surgery, it is important to take recovery seriously even if your dog seems energetic after surgery.

Pricing & Estimates for Gastropexy

Gastropexy pricing can vary depending on your dog’s size, whether the procedure is performed on its own or at the same time as a spay/neuter, and whether any additional care is recommended based on age or medical history.

Our team is happy to provide a clear estimate before scheduling so you understand the expected cost and next steps.

Request a Gastropexy Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

Does gastropexy prevent bloat?

No. Gastropexy does not prevent the stomach from filling with gas or fluid. It is designed to help reduce the risk of the stomach twisting, which is the most dangerous and life-threatening part of GDV.

Is gastropexy an emergency surgery?

Not at Spay Neuter Vets. We perform gastropexy as a planned outpatient procedure for stable dogs. If your dog is actively bloating or showing emergency signs, they need immediate emergency veterinary care.

Can gastropexy be done with a spay or neuter?

Yes. When appropriate, gastropexy can be performed at the same time as a spay or neuter. This may be a good option for dogs who are already at risk for GDV and are already scheduled for sterilization surgery.

Is spay or neuter required?

No. We may recommend discussing spay or neuter if your dog is not already altered, but it is not required in order to request a gastropexy.

What age can my dog have a gastropexy?

We require dogs to be at least 6 months old for gastropexy.

Does my dog need bloodwork first?

Not always. Bloodwork may be recommended or required for senior pets or pets with medical conditions that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

What breeds should consider gastropexy?

Large and deep-chested breeds are commonly considered higher risk. This may include Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Weimaraners, and similar breeds or body types.

How do I know if my dog is a good candidate?

Submit a gastropexy appointment request and our team will review your dog’s information. We will help determine whether this procedure may be appropriate for your pet.

Request a Gastropexy Appointment

Gastropexy can be an important preventative option for dogs at higher risk of GDV/bloat. Our team is here to help you understand the procedure, your dog’s candidacy, and what to expect from scheduling through recovery.