Barney’s tummy tuck
By Zoe Levesque | Dated August 17, 2026
Barney is an adorable 20-month-old Basset Hound who recently visited Gordon Vet for his castration and a preventative gastropexy procedure. The procedure went very smoothly and Barney recovered well at home and is back to enjoying his normal routine.

A gastropexy is a surgical procedure performed to help prevent Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). GDV is a serious and life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and then twists on itself, causing restriction in blood flow to the stomach and other organs. This is a serious and life-threatening condition. GDV is more commonly seen in giant and deep-chested breeds, such as Great Danes, Bernese Mountain dogs, St. Bernards, Bloodhounds and Basset Hounds, among many.
The gastropexy procedure involves securing the stomach to the body wall. While this does not prevent bloating of the stomach, it decreases the likelihood of the dangerous twisting component of GDV. Unfortunately for Barney’s family, one of their previous Basset Hounds, who did not get this preventative procedure, died of a GDV.
For breeds considered at increased risk, a preventative gastropexy can be an excellent option. By performing Barney’s gastropexy at the same time as his castration, we were able to combine both procedures under a single anaesthetic.
We wish Barney a happy and healthy future and are delighted to have helped reduce his risk of this serious condition.































