ST. JOHNS magazine
The area’s No. 1 choice for children’s emergency care.
When it’s your child and it’s an emergency, you want the best care available, close to home. Wolfson Children’s Emergency Centers give you and your family the convenience of a full-service children’s ER with a dedicated team of emergency physicians, nurses and other caregivers.
Learn more about Wolfson Children’s family of ERs at WolfsonChildrens.com/ER.
Baptist/Wolfson Children’s Emergency & Imaging Centers
Baptist Clay: 1771 Baptist Clay Drive, Fleming Island
North: 11250 Baptist Health Drive, Jacksonville
Oakleaf: 9868 Family Place, Jacksonville
Baptist South: 14550 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville
Town Center: 4085 Town Center Parkway, Jacksonville
Wolfson Children’s Hospital: 800 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville
St. Augustine: 461 Outlet Mall Boulevard, St. Augustine
Nassau Crossing: East of I-95 on State Road 200 in Yulee
Baptist Medical Center South
ST.JOHNs magazine
Publisher & Creative Director
Debbie Gaylord debbie@stjohnsmag.com www.stjohnsmag.com 904-687-8538
Photographer/Partner
Ozzy Trevino
Ozzy Trevino Photography
Pets/Partner
Dr. Deckard
Pets R Family
Food Blogger/Partner
Lori Allen @MywanderingFork
To Adverttise
contact: Eric Wolf eric@stjohnsmag.com 904-567-7401
About Us
St. Johns Magazine is dedicated to covering the topics readers care aboutfrom hometown stories and community spotlighs to food, health & business. St. Johns Magazine is designed to engage readers and inspire them to enjoy the good life in Northern St. Johns!
All rights reserved
©2012-2024
©St. Johns Magazine LLC. St. Johns Magazine is published monthly and distributed by US postal Service to select homes in Northern St. Johns. It is free of charge to consumers receiving it in the mail. It is also availalble at many drop points in Northern St. Johns. All material is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and published without responsibility for errors and ommissions.
AUGUST 2024
Dear Reader,
As the dog days of Summer draw to a close, we find ourselves at the exciting threshold of a new school year. This time of year is filled with anticipation, fresh beginnings, and the promise of new adventures. Our Back to School issue is here to help you ease into the rhythm of the new school year.
In this issue discover more about our featured partner, the community of Shearwater, and the new school, Trout Creek Academy opening there in August. We also take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible leaders at Trout Creek with an interview with Katie O’Connell the new Principal.
Please enjoy our August Calendar and Special Friday Night Lights schedule . Be sure to check out our 2024 Book Pick s and an interesting article for parents about navigating 529 Savings Plan s
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you feel the excitement and optimism that comes with the start of a new school year. Let’s embrace this season with open hearts and minds, ready to learn, grow, and make unforgettable memories. Thank you to all the all our business partners for making this issue possible!
Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!
Warm regards,
Debbie GaylordPublisher St. Johns Magazine
ST. JOHNS MAGAZINE SEEKS TO CONNECT NEIGHBORS IN THE GROWING COMMUNITIES OF NORTHERN ST. JOHNS. Distributed via US POST free of charge to select home owners in the Northern St. Johns communities of Durbin, Aberdeen, Julington, Rivertown, Shearwater, Silverleaf, Beachside, South Hampton, St. Johns Golf & Country Club, Stonehurst, Cimarrone, Silverleaf & parts of Nocatee.
LIVE IN Nature’s Playground
Explore
Enjoy
“Excellent place for a family home –away from traffic, with tons to do. A dream site!”
– HENRY PEREZ
S hearwater Homeowner
Improve your backhand on one of our four illuminated Har-Tru clay tennis courts.
The center of Shearwater community features a resort-style lagoon and multi-lane lap pool, 3-story water slide and more. The Kayak Club is also home to the HUB, serving residents snacks on-the-go.
Choose between two dog parks perfectly designed
Shearwater is surrounded by top-rated schools, including those located in the community — Timberlin Creek Elementary and the newly
Community members can grow and harvest their very own fresh produce in our delightful
Nature’s Playground
Be met with excitement and opportunity each morning. Paddle down Trout Creek, play tennis with your neighbor, work up a sweat in the Fitness Lodge, or sunbathe in the Lazy Bird River – there are so many ways to become your best, most active self. Live on your terms in an enchanting environment. Live in Nature’s Playground.
St. Johns
LOOKING FOR FUN AND ENGAGING ACTIVITIES FOR AFTER SCHOOL IN NORTHERN ST. JOHNS? HERE ARE SOME GREAT OPTIONS TO CONSIDER:
SJC 4-H:
SJC 4-H offers a variety of programs that focus on youth development through hands-on learning experiences. Activities range from agriculture and animal sciences to robotics and leadership skills, making it a fantastic way for kids to explore new interests and develop valuable skills. sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/stjohns/4h-youth-development/4-h-office
YMCA:
The local YMCA provides a wide range of after-school programs including sports, swimming, arts and crafts, and fitness activities. These programs are designed to promote physical health, social skills, and personal growth in a fun and supportive environment. www.firstcoastymca.com
Code Wiz:
Code Wiz offers exciting coding and robotics classes for kids of all ages. Whether your child is a beginner or has some experience, they can learn to code through engaging projects that teach programming languages, game development, and more. www. thecodewiz.com/stjohns-fl
Mathnasium, Fruitcove:
Mathnasium provides customized math tutoring services that help children understand and enjoy math. Their programs are designed to improve math skills and boost confidence through personalized learning plans and experienced instructors. www.mathnasium. com/math-centers/fruitcove
Kumon Ponte Vedra, Nocatee:
Kumon offers math and reading programs that develop strong academic skills and independent learning habits. Their afterschool programs are tailored to each child’s needs, helping them excel in school and build a strong educational foundation. www. kumon.com/ponte-vedra
St. Johns County Public Library Programs:
The local libraries offer a variety of after-school activities, including book clubs, arts and crafts, STEM workshops, and storytelling sessions. These programs are designed to be both educational and entertaining for children of all ages. SJCPLS.ORG
First Coast Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach:
This center offers art classes, music lessons, and drama workshops for kids. These programs provide a creative outlet and a chance to develop new skills in a supportive environment. firstcoastculturalcenter.org
These after-school programs not only provide fun and engaging activities but also foster personal development and academic growth. Whether your child is interested in sports, coding, math, or leadership, there's something for everyone in Northern St. Johns!
TrouT Creek ACAdemy
We offer a big welcome to Trout Creek Academy, the newest gem in Northern St. Johns! Nestled on approximately 26.5 acres on Timberwolf Trail in the charming Shearwater neighborhood. Doors will open to local students in August 2024.
Trout Creek Academy will welcome 1,200 students from kindergarten through eighth grade, offering a blend of traditional and innovative learning environments. Unique classroom design allows for both grade-level groupings and multiage interactions, facilitated by dynamic teaching teams. Moveable walls between classroom pairs enhance a team-teaching approach, while common areas with computer labs and kitchen spaces provide versatile learning settings. These features empower dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals to employ diverse instructional methods tailored to each student’s needs.
St. Johns Magazine was thrilled to learn more about Principal Katie O’Connell, who will lead Trout Creek Academy from its inception, supported by Assistant Principals David Barnes and Sam Sawruk. Go Terrapins!
The Trout Creek Leadership Team, Principal Katie O'Connell, Assistant Principals David Barnes & Sam Sawruck
Photos provided by Ozzy Trevino Photography ozzytrevino.com
Meet Principal Katie O'Connell & Learn About the School
Meet Principal Katie O’Connell, the inspiring leader of Trout Creek Academy. Beginning her educational journey at Bartram Trail High School in 2000, Principal O’Connell brings 25 years of rich experience across elementary, middle, and high school administration, with 14 of those years in leadership roles. Her unwavering passion for education drives her commitment to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment for all students.
What inspired you to become the Principal of Trout Creek Academy and what is your vision for its future?
I was inspired to become the principal of Trout Creek Academy by the opportunity to shape a nurturing and empowering educational environment from the ground up. Our mission is to nurture curious minds and empower students to discover their unique strengths. My vision is to see our students embody the spirit of the Terrapin—strength, resilience, and adaptability—as they persevere and excel in their educational journeys and beyond.
How do you plan to create a positive and inclusive school culture for both students and staff?
At Trout Creek Academy, creating a positive and inclusive school culture begins with embracing our core values of integrity, collaboration, and mutual respect. We will implement daily FLOW sessions for elementary students and weekly CREEK sessions for middle school students to close achievement gaps and promote a supportive learning environment. Trout Creek Academy will be the only licensed Energy Bus School in St Johns County, following the positive philosophy of Jon Gordon. We will thrive by filling each other’s fuel tanks,
Outside the school setting, Principal O’Connell enjoys an active lifestyle filled with playing and watching sports, reading, beach visits, traveling, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Her enthusiasm and dedication make her a remarkable addition to Trout Creek Academy.
celebrating our Chief Energy Officers (CEOs) and enjoying the ride!
What unique programs or initiatives will the school offer to enhance student learning and engagement?
Our unique programs and initiatives at Trout Creek Academy are designed to enhance student learning and engagement by catering to diverse interests and needs. We will offer clubs such as the STEM Club, Character Counts Club, Girls on the Run, Odyssey of the Mind, and the National Junior Honor Society. These programs provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and build character. Additionally, our daily FLOW sessions and weekly CREEK sessions will support flexible student groupings that will extend classroom communities building wide.
How will you involve parents and the community in the school's development and ongoing activities?
Involving parents and the community is a cornerstone of our approach at Trout Creek Academy. From day one, parents have been integral in creating our school identity and community. We encourage parents to volunteer, serve
as SAC representatives, and participate in our PTO. Regular communication and collaborative events will ensure that parents and community members remain actively involved in the school's development and ongoing activities. We are really looking forward to Meet the Teacher, our first dance, Grandparent’s Day Breakfast, Fall Festival and all of the family events we have planned for this year.
What extracurricular activities and programs will be available to students, and how will they contribute to the overall development of the students?
Trout Creek Academy will offer a variety of extracurricular activities and programs to support the overall development of our students. Clubs such as the STEM Club, Character Counts Club, Girls on the Run, Odyssey of the Mind, and the National Junior Honor Society will provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and build strong character. These activities will complement our academic programs by promoting teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and physical fitness. Through these diverse opportunities, students will develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for future success.
August 2024 Calendar
Through
August 25th
History Through the Lens of the Artist
This nationwide exhibition encourages professionals and amateurs to explore their own communities. Participants are invited to narrate a compelling story about how local architecture contributes to the cultural and societal development of their community. Subject matters range from architecture and landscape to people, events, landmarks, social issues, and more. View the exhibit Tuesdays through Sundays, noon-4 p.m. Admission is free. 22 Marine St., St. Augustine. www.staaa. org
August 2nd
First Friday Art Walk St. Augustine
Join Art Galleries of St. Augustine on the first Friday of every month from 5-9 p.m. for new exhibits, refreshments, and live music at many participating galleries. Tour maps are available at participating galleries or online. 904824-2310 www.staaa.org/art-galleriesof-st-augustine
August 3rd
Guided Hike GTM
From 9 to 11 AM visitors can learn about the cultural history of the Guana Peninsula as well as the natural biodiversity during a guided hike. Find out about the peninsula’s 5,000 years of human history, including how native
peoples used estuarine resources, what European plantation life was like, and current efforts to learn about and save these resources. Meet at the GTM Research Reserve’s Trailhead Pavilion located west of the Guana Dam. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee. Reservations are required and space is limited. 904-380-8600 www.gtmnerr. org
August 10th
UB40 Concert:
Enjoy reggae legends UB40 at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
August 10th Family Seining
Hosted by the GTM Research Reserve, you're invited to join docents from 9-11 a.m. to learn how to pull a seine net. Participants will collect fish and crabs as well as learn about their habitats and role in the environment. Waders and boots provided. The program is included with regular admission to the reserve and takes place in the Environmental Education Center. 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-380-8600 www.gtmnerr.org
August 11th
Slash at the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival:
Experience iconic blues and rock-n-roll hits St. Augustine Amphitheatre
August 11th
Woody Guthrie at Beluthahatchee Park
Presented by The Stetson Kennedy Foundation and St. Johns County Parks, this monthly folk music concert series features artists who reflect the values, spirit, and goals of Stetson Kennedy. Shows are from 2-4 p.m. and admission is a suggested donation of $10 per person. All proceeds support the Sundays at Stetson's concert series. Tours of Beluthahatchee (Stetson's cottage) may be available. Beluthahatchee Park, 1501 SR 13 N., Fruit Cove. www.facebook.com/ SundaysAtStetsons
August 14th
Shark Tooth Hunting
From 9 to 10 AM join the St. Johns County Parks and Rec team on the beach to hunt for sharks' teeth! Learn about sharks and some tips and tricks to finding these keepsake treasures. This program is free; however, registration is required. Trips leave from Mussallem Beachfront Park. 3365 Coastal Highway, Vilano Beach. www. sjcfl.us/recreation
August 14th
Music and Art by the Sea
Attend this art exhibition and live music event on select Wednesdays in August at the St. Augustine Pier ( Visit St. Augustine).
August 15th
The St. Johns County 4-H Youth
Development Program
4-H Enrollment Kick Off for youth ages 5-18, (age as of September 1, 2024) from 4:00 pm-6:00 pm at the St. Johns County Extension Office at 3125 Agricultural Center Drive (near S.R. 16 and I 95). 4-H Club and Project information will be available for new and returning 4-H members. 4-H is a youth development program that enables youth to develop life skills, leadership, and citizenship. Caring adult leaders are also being recruited. Please contact the 4-H Office at 904 209-0430 for more information. Youth ages 5-18, as of September 1st, 2024 can enroll in the St. Johns County 4-H program ONLINE starting on August 1st by going to: https://v2.4honline.com
August 17th -18th
Florida Skimboarding Pro/Am Tournament:
Competing athletes are from more than 75 different beaches throughout Florida, the United States, and the
world. This event takes place at the Vilano Beach ramp. Visit the website for the start times, which are subject to change. 2725 Anahma Dr., St. Augustine 904-540-1189 www.rundropslide.com/ flproam
August 17th
311 Concert:
Groove to rock, rap, reggae, and funk with 311 at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. www.theamp.com
August 17th EcoCinema Series
Join the screening of "Wasted! The Story of Food Waste" at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, focusing on reducing food waste.
August 17th
Nocatee Farmer’s Market
Enjoy a traditional market with a new and unique theme. The Nocatee Farmers Market is full of activities, shows, and demonstrations for the entire family. With so much to do, everyone is sure to have a great time. This market offers a wide variety
of selections including the freshest locally grown produce and herbs as well as homemade jams, jellies, homebaked goods, hand-stitched quilts, plants, art, and pottery items. Nocatee Station Field, 400 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra. www.facebook.com/ NocateeLiving
August 23rd & 24th
The Jacksonville Tattoo Convention
Meet tattoo enthusiasts, artists, and professionals from around the region. This vibrant event showcases a diverse array of tattoo styles, from traditional to contemporary, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of the tattoo industry. Attendees can witness live tattooing demonstrations, engage with renowned artists, and explore a variety of tattoo-related vendors offering everything from unique inks to innovative aftercare products. Ticket are $20-$40/ kids 15 and under are free. 500 S. Legacy Trl., St. Augustine. www.setattoo.com
Board Certi ed Orthodontist
A 101 CLASS ON 529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS
BY JEFF MCDERMOTT, CFP®, CSLP® FOUNDER OF CREATE WEALTH FINANCIAL PLANNING AN INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM IN SAINT JOHNS, FL. WWW.CREATEWEALTHFP.COM
We all know college is expensive. Your child may secure a scholarship for part of their tuition, but you still have room and board, books, and other fees. If they’re looking at out of state, private, or grad schools, the cost can really soar. A 529 savings plan can be a perfect way to stretch your college savings. Let’s take a crash course on 529 plans to understand how they work (I promise, there won’t be dates on the exam!).
A 529 savings plan (aka: Qualified Tuition Program) is a tax advantaged investment account that allows you to put money away for college. Money that you deposit into a 529 can be invested in specific investment options and withdrawn later tax free if used for qualified education expenses. Qualified education expenses are defined by the IRS, and cover things like tuition, books, room and board, and more, all within certain limits. That means if a $10,000 529 investment grows to $15,000, that $5,000 of growth is tax free when used for qualified expenses. 529 investments can lose value, so the money should be invested with care, especially when your child is approaching college. Most 529 plans have age-based investments that will automatically scale back risk as your child gets older. The earlier you start and the longer your timeline, the more likely you are to reap the benefits of early planning.
Individual states set up and run 529 plans, but the money can be used anywhere. Whether you use the Florida plan, or if you like the investment options better in the Utah plan, the money is good across state lines. Different states will have different investment options, so finding a plan with a variety of low-cost investments should be in your search criteria. Some states may offer a tax deduction for using their home plan, but we don’t have to worry about that here with no state tax in Florida.
What if I have leftover money in my 529, even after grad school? If money is distributed for non-education expenses, there is income tax on the earnings and a 10% penalty. For this reason, I typically guide clients towards funding only 50 – 60% of expected college costs from a 529. However, extra funds can be transferred tax free to a wide range of family members, including siblings, cousins, and even down to future grandchildren, really making a generational impact.
When used carefully, a 529 can offer a way to start saving for college early and leverage tax benefits to maximize your dollars. A financial planner can help you evaluate your college needs and make the right college savings decisions. Class dismissed.
Creative Branding One
When you need one or two designs quickly and professionally, we’re ready to deliver with speed, quality and our signature eye for visual storytelling.
When you want a designer at your fingertips to produce more than one or two creative assets during a given period
You want to explore your brand from mission to storytelling. You will need creative assets that reflect your manifesto. Our 1:1 brainstorming sessions with cohesive deliverables help you connect to the world.
Summer 2024 Book Picks: Must-Reads for the Season
Here are the St. Johns Magazine recommedations, an exciting array of books that promise to captivate readers. These book picks offer something for every reader, from romance and historical fiction to thrilling mysteries. Make sure to add these titles to your reading list for an unforgettable literary future.
"Swan Song" by Elin Hilderbrand
Elin Hilderbrand returns with another beach read that captures the essence of Nantucket life. "Swan Song" weaves a tale of love, loss, and second chances, perfect for a sunny day by the sea.
"Husbands and Lovers" by Beatriz Williams
Beatriz Williams delivers a gripping story of romance and intrigue set against the glamorous backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. "Husbands and Lovers" explores the complexities of relationships and the secrets that bind them.
"The Women" by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah's "The Women" is a powerful narrative that highlights the courage and resilience of women during wartime. This novel is both a heart-wrenching and inspiring read.
The Midnight Feast" by Lucy Foley
Known for her suspenseful storytelling, Lucy Foley's "The Midnight Feast" invites readers to a dinner party where secrets are revealed and tensions run high. It's a thrilling mystery that will keep you guessing until the end.
"Funny Story" by Emily Henry
Emily Henry brings humor and heart to "Funny Story," a delightful romantic comedy about the unexpected twists and turns of love. It's a light-hearted read that will leave you smiling.
"The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore
In "The God of the Woods," Liz Moore crafts a mesmerizing tale set in a small town with deep, dark secrets. This novel blends mystery with lyrical prose, making it a compelling read for those who love a good page-turner.
Note: Please call to confirm before driving long distances as some times and details may vary
The Power of Being Unplugged: First Coast YMCA Focuses on Family Fun
For many families in St. Johns County, August can be a whirlwind - final vacations, then maybe back to school shopping, doctors’ appointments, sports registrations, daycare, etc. The first week and a half lead up to August 12th, which is undoubtedly circled on many calendars, as that’s when classes in St. Johns County Schools resume. On one hand, that day may be relief for parents to get their kids back into the groove of a consistent schedule, but it can also mark a decrease in dedicated family time since the kids are away for eight hours a day.
So how can families ensure they maintain a strong family bond when the school bell rings again? The First Coast YMCA has an answer.
We know how important it is for families to connect outside of the home, especially without the use of hand-held electronics, which is why we created Families Unplugged. These events throughout the year are available to First Coast YMCA members who want to connect and strengthen their relationships in unique ways. During August, we’ll be hosting events like creating a family time capsule at our Nocatee location, so families can preserve some of their precious
memories. We’ll also be doing physical activities like family pickleball and family fitness night at our Brown Family location in Ponte Vedra. These are all simple opportunities to round up the kids and take part in engaging activities that get everyone away from a screen for a little while. Most of them are free or have a very low cost for members.
Of course, we know that sometimes parents need some time to themselves, which is why we also offer one of our most popular family events to members for free - Parent’s Night Out. Parents who are members can bring their kids by the branch and we’ll watch them for a couple of hours so mom and dad can have a date night, or just a couple of relaxing hours without the kids. Not only does that remove the burden of trying to find a babysitter, but it also gives kids the chance to hang out and play with their peers. Check with your local branch on when registration opens for this monthly offering.
There are a lot of components to living a healthy life and for families, that includes programming that engages each member mentally and physically. The start of a school year brings about enough stress
itself, so let us be an outlet for everyone in the family to reconnect with each other and create memories that will last a lifetime.
For more information on family programming, or to help support these programs through donations, contact your local branch or visit us online at fcymca. org.
By: Marcie Gallagher, Director, Youth & Family Programs, Brown Family YMCA
PETS R FAMILY
FULL-SERVICE VETERINARY CARE, BOARDING, & GROOMING
HOSPITAL SERVICES
WE’RE YOUR OTHER FAMILY DOCTOR!
Pets R Family is a full-service 11,000 square foot Veterinary Hospital nestled in a private and serene wildlife preserve. Family-owned and operated right here in St. John’s, we are NOT a corporate veterinary facility — no pre-designed packages or sales tactics here!
We believe in treating all pets with love, care, and compassion. Our large team of doctors, technicians, and customer service members are at your service to provide you with the very best care and experience.
• State-of-the-art medical facility
• Experienced team of compassionate doctors and veterinary technicians
• Same-day sick appointments available
• Home visits available by appointment
• Full pharmacy
• Teeth cleanings and dentistry
• Specialty care including ultrasounds, thermal imaging, and K-Laser treatments
• NEW! CT Scanner and fluoroscopy
KENNEL SERVICES
• Pups N Play social day care
• Pet birthday parties
• Long-term and short-term boarding care
• Hospital boarding for pets with special needs
• Professional grooming and bathing services
VETS N TRAINING
Does your child love animals?
Our Vets N Training program gives kids from kindergarten to fifth grade the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work at a veterinary hospital and to learn all about the veterinary industry. Space is limited, so scan the QR code to sign up today!
Many injuries and physical disorders presented to a veterinary hospital are considered life-threatening emergencies, but there is one condition so drastic that it overshadows them all in terms of rapidity of consequences and effort in emergency treatment: the gastric dilatation and volvulus –the bloat.
What is it, and Why Is It So Serious?
When the stomach bloats, gas and/or food stretches the stomach many times its normal size, causing tremendous abdominal pain. Largely not fully understood, this grossly distended stomach tends to rotate, which twists off not only its own blood supply but the only exit routes for the gas inside. The spleen, which normally lies along the greater curvature of the stomach, can twist as well, cutting off its circulation. The distended stomach becomes so large that it compresses large vessels, creating a circulatory shock. Not only is this collection of disasters extremely painful, but it is also rapidly life-threatening. A dog with a bloated, twisted stomach (more scientifically called gastric dilatation and volvulus (aka GDV)) can die in a matter of hours unless drastic steps are taken.
What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Bloat?
☑ Dogs weighing more than 99 pounds.
☑ Age: the risk of bloating increases with age.
☑ Deep-chested large breeds such as the Great Dane, Weimaraner, German Shepherds, Greyhound, and the setter breeds. However, any dog can bloat, even dachshunds and chihuahuas.
☑ Classically, the bloated dog has recently eaten a large meal and exercised heavily shortly thereafter.
A Message From The Vet
Still, we usually do not know why a given dog
by Dr. Deckard, DVM, Pets R Family
BLOAT
Time is of the Essence
bloats on an individual basis. Some factors found to increase and decrease the risk of bloat are listed below.
Factors that May Increase the Risk of Bloat
☑ Increasing age
☑ Having closely related family members with a history of bloat
☑ Eating rapidly
☑ Feeding from an elevated bowl
☑ Feeding a dry food with fat or oil listed in the first four ingredients.
☑ Factors that May Decrease the Risk of Bloat
☑ Adding fluid, canned food, or non-kibble supplements to the dog's kibble diet reduced the risk of bloat in some studies, however, more research is needed.
☑ Happy or easy-going temperament
☑ Feeding a dry food containing a calciumrich meat meal (such as meat/lamb meal, fish meal, chicken by-product meal, meat meal, or bone meal) listed in the first four ingredients of the ingredient list.
☑ Eating two or more meals per day
How to Tell if Your Dog Has Bloated
The hallmark presentation of bloat is a sudden onset of abdominal distention, distress, anxiety, and pain (panting, guarding the belly, anguished facial expression), and multiple attempts at vomiting that are frequently unproductive. Not every dog will have a classic appearance, and some dogs will not have obvious abdominal distention because of their body configuration. If you are not sure, it is best to err on the side of caution and rush your dog to the veterinarian immediately.
What Has To Be Done
☑ The Stomach Must be Decompressed – this can be done by your veterinarian using a large
bore needle initially, followed by a stomach tube which is placed either before or during surgery.
☑ Rapid IV Fluids Must be Given to Reverse the Shock
☑ The Heart Rhythm is Assessed and Stabilized ☑ Surgery
All bloated dogs, once the above measures have been taken, should have surgery. Without surgery, the damage done inside cannot be assessed or repaired. The surgeon must untwist the stomach and determine what tissue is viable and what is not. If there is a section of dying tissue on the stomach wall, this must be removed or the dog will not survive. Also, the spleen may twist with the stomach, necessitating removal of the spleen or part of the spleen as well. After the nonviable tissue is removed, a surgery called a gastropexy is done to tack the stomach into its normal position to prevent future twisting. This surgery will prevent the stomach from twisting in the future, but the stomach is still able to periodically distend with gas. This is uncomfortable but not lifethreatening.
Prevention: Gastropexy Surgery
Preventive gastropexy is an elective surgery usually done at the time of spaying or neuter in a breed considered at risk. The gastropexy, as mentioned, tacks the stomach to the body wall, which drastically reduces the stomach's ability to twist. It could save your dog’s life.
Preparation is key. Know where to take your dog during overnight or Sunday hours for emergency care. Avoid exercising your dog after a large meal and know what to watch for. Enjoy the special friendship a large dog provides, but at the same time, be aware of the large dog's special needs and concerns.
