Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV, or bloat) is one of the most serious emergencies in dogs: the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Without fast surgery it can be fatal.
Key facts
- At a university vet hospital, GDV surgery costs €1,000 (€1,100 if the spleen also has to be removed).
- As emergency surgery it carries a 25% surcharge, and anaesthesia, tests and the hospital stay are charged separately.
- Petplan reimburses 100% up to €3,100 a year.
Reference prices (2026)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Gastric dilatation-volvulus (surgery only) | €1,000 |
| Gastric dilatation-volvulus + splenectomy (surgery only) | €1,100 |
| Gastropexy | €350 |
| Emergency consultation at night, weekends and public holidays | €90 |
| Inhalation anaesthesia up to 2 h (dog 25-45 kg) | €200 |
What makes the price vary?
Whether the spleen has to be removed, the emergency surcharge (with it, the surgery goes from €1,000 to €1,250), the dog’s weight, which changes the anaesthetic price, tests and days in hospital. The surgery includes up to 24 hours of observation and two check-ups.
How much does Petplan cover?
Petplan Spain reimburses 100% of the invoice up to €3,100 a year, with a €45 co-payment per illness or accident, at the vet of your choice. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or preventive care, and there are waiting periods of 15 days for accidents and 30 days for illness.
The policy covers surgery and out-of-hours consultations when the vet confirms the emergency was needed, as long as it is not a pre-existing condition.
Frequently asked questions
How do I recognise bloat?
A swollen, hard belly, retching without bringing anything up, drooling, restlessness and weakness. It is a life-threatening emergency: go to the vet immediately.
Which dogs are most at risk?
Mainly large, deep-chested dogs such as the German Shepherd, the Great Dane or the mastiff breeds.
Sources
- Veterinary Hospital of the University of Zaragoza, 2026 public prices (VAT included).
- Petplan, health insurance general conditions (in Spanish).
See also: cost of an emergency vet visit, cost of anaesthesia, cost of hospitalisation and real cost of the vet in Spain 2026.
Indicative prices. Spain has no official price scale and each clinic sets its own fees: these are the public prices of a university veterinary hospital, and other clinics may charge differently.
