Pictured below is my dog, Buddy, having dinner from an elevated food Bowl. I like elevated feeding stations for dogs with megaesophagus, osteoarthritis and cervical disc disease. In my experience, elevated feeding stations also work well for dogs with anxiety. They seem to feel less vulnerable when standing.
Unfortunately, a study performed at Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine, found that elevated food bowls might be associated with a greater risk of gastric dilation and volvulus (also referred to as bloat). Other risk factors include increasing age, family history of bloat and eating rapidly.
Source: Glickman, L.T., et al, Non-dietary risk factors for gastric dilation and volvulus in large and giant breed dogs, J Am. Vet Med Assoc. November 2000: 217(10):1492-9.
Published by kristennelsondvm
Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City.
In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.
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