IN MEMORY OF RHETTA

In August 2003 we had rescue female German Shepherd named Rhetta from Westside German Shepherd Rescue. From the beginning we knew she was a special dog, who needed a lots of attention.

Soon she became part of our family and her mission was to protect us. Anywhere she went with us we felt safe. Nobody could get to our house without her permission. She made as feel so special, that nothing else in her live was more important than us.

She was a high energy dog who needed a lots of motivations to keep her mind busy. Pretty soon she would find out how to open any doors, so we had to make sure to lock them.

She didn't get alone with any other dogs, except our male German Shepherd Astor, who she loved dearly.

On August 28, 2006 we lost her due to the Gastric Torsion (the condition where the stomach rotates flips on its long axis) and Bloat. Please be aware that this condition is number 2 killer in GSD (after cancer). Her sudden death left our family devastated. We didn't lost a dog, we lost a family member, best friend and companion. She was 8 years old.


WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT BLOAT?

The best suggestions are to feed the dog two small meals a day instead of one large meal. Do not allow the dog to drink large quantities of water at one time... have water available at all times. Do not allow exercise or other vigorous activity for at least two hours after a full meal. Feed a diet composed of more meats and less grain.