Canine MegaEsophagus

[Deborah Usry]

My GoldenDoodle has just been diagnosed with Canine Mega Esophagus. It can be pretty scary, but we have it pretty well managed at least for now. The specialist (in Richmond), who I like very much, said that our Doodles are prone to this condition -- that he's seeing more of it than the population would indicate. Have any of you Doodle lovers seen this in your dogs? (BTW, Canine MegaEsophagus is a condition whereby the dog has an enlarged esophagus which creates a condition that makes it difficult for dog food to easily travel down the esophagus, and so they regurgitate with some frequency.) In some cases, it can be easy to explain away, but is very serious.

[Deborah Usry]

If you are interested in more information, I really suggest you go to the Canine Mega Esophagus FaceBook support group. It's really fabulous information, provided by folks who are living it. The stories and advice are very, very helpful, and like this group, the information is offered in a compassionate way. There are white papers on the condition, photos of dogs in their Bailey chairs, and lots of pictures of pets thriving despite the diagnosis. Some don't do as well, but in many cases, like ours, it's all about managing - and figuring out what works for your pet. 

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Harry-I hope you feel better, sounds like you are on track to treatment. Don't feel bad, I have it too (not canine LOL!)

 

[Donna K & Quincy]

I am sorry that Harry has been diagnosed with this condition. How old was he when he was diagnosed? It seems that you have found the info and support you need to deal with Harry's condition. He is lucky to have you as I am sure you are lucky to have him. Thanks for posting, this maybe help someone else who maybe dealing with the same issue.

[Christine & Camus]

I'm sorry to hear that Harry has megaesophagus.  I had a doodle with megaesophagus, however he had an additional medical complication - a constriction that blocked the food from entering his stomach.  Megaesophagus is manageable when proper feeding techniques are used and depending on severity medication may also be needed.  My vet recommended a step stool, which worked well and to feed him 3 or 4 times a day.  I also pulverized his kibble in a blender and added broth from chicken or lamb.  After two or three meals using the step stool Nietzsche knew exactly what to do.  You did not mention how you are feeding Harry, but here is a photo of Nietzsche (my little wooly Mammoth) eating his dinner.

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Great option-glad he caught on so fast!

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

I know you miss him, Christine.  :(

[Ann Kendig]

One of my foster dogs went to a family that has a dog with this condition but it isn't a doodle.  In fact, she had 2 with the same condition.  Here is what she wrote about her two last year.

Peaches, my king shepherd rescue had megaesophogus and was not expected to live, I had her 10 years and she died suddenly in march of cancer.
Blossom Hope, Peaches' twin, also had megaesophogus and was not supposed to live. We bottle fed both girls and held them up like babies until they were 40 lbs each. Blossom was a miracle dog, we name her blossom hope in the hope that she would blossom! She is sleeping at my feet right now. she is 11 years old! 

I am in awe of folks like you, Deborah, along with my foster doodle's adoptive family and all others that care enough to make a commitment to these dogs to see that they get the care they need and the love they deserve.  Bless you.  : )

[Deborah Usry]

Harry does have ME but he remains a goofy Doodle. We have always hand fed him -- a training recommendation, and still do. Now he sits very tall, with his neck stretched up -- and is a very eager eater. We are now feeding him three times a day, but we are quite fortunate that it is manageable. The first vet put him on drugs, but they "drugged" him. The internist said he that he really doesn't need the drugs -- other than his morning Pepcid. Feeding with the stretched neck is the key -- along with no big treats, no sticks, or other food other than his kibble. So, we are hopeful. I really like the step stool idea, and might give it a try.