25/06/2026
Time was of the essence when Slinky the Dachshund suffered from a painful and life-threatening condition called bloat, where the stomach fills with gas.
After noticing his stomach was swollen and he looked uncomfortable, the 11-year-old pet's owner Angela McConnell rushed him to Winsford Veterinary Surgery , where he was given emergency treatment.
We're delighted that Slinky has made a full recovery, and Angela and the vet practice are now raising awareness of bloat and want to encourage other owners to learn the signs, which include a distended stomach, retching or vomiting, salivating, excessive panting and struggling to breathe, discomfort and lethargy.
It's so serious because gas in the stomach puts pressure on blood vessels, restricting blood flow around the body and to vital organs, and an added complication is that the stomach can twist.
Angela said: "I'm so grateful to Winsford Vets for saving Slinky and they gave him the very best care. I had heard of bloat but didn't realise dogs could get it and I’m hoping that sharing Slinky’s story could save another life.”
You can read the full story here https://www.vetpartners.co.uk/practice-news/life-saving-treatment-for-beloved-dachshund-that-suffered-from-bloat/
Slinky is pictured with vet Kajal Chopra, who treated him at Winsford Vets.