Mega Espphagus - Page 2

According to the Merck Vet Manual, megaesophgus is caused by a vascular ring anomaly which may be idiopathic (no known cause) or the results of a persistant right aortic arch. "......the right aortic arch persists and causes obstruction of of the esophagus at the level of the heart base. The esophagus is circled by the persistent arch on the right.........Breed predilections exist for German Shepherd Dog and Irish Setters." ".....a puppy with congenital esophageal dilation(megaesophagus) characteristically begins to regurgitate at weaning when it begins to eat solid food.........affected puppies are generally unthrifty and smaller than their littermates.........." "...the overall prognsis is poor and many die from aspiration pneumonia". I think this manual is on line if you want to read the rest if the story. It is also available for purchase and IMO is well worth the price and a good reference book. Your vet most likely refers to it often.

Here's the URL for the Merck Manual: merckvetmanual.com

Thanks, Blitzen. This is the same information I had found when we had that problem puppy. I have to admit that I did not follow up on anything after that episode with our puppy, since we were not confronted with that again. That is why I would like to know from Het where she got her information from. Hi Molly, Joe and kids are at the beach coming back today, thank god. Had to take care of all the dogs myself. Hope to see you soon. Chris

this was just information from a couple vets...but you know how that goes...again they were not my dogs, so it wasn't my vet and I didn't get to ask all the questions. Sorry not much help Heather

There is more than one form of megaesophagus. one is the simple dilation of the esophagus accopanied by regurgitation (which often lead to aspiration pneumonia). The most common other type is "persistent right aortic arch" (when part of the embryonic circulatory system remains patent after birth). Do a Google search for mega. From what I've read, megaesophagus is believed to a simple autosomal recessive--meaning that BOTH parents are carriers. Louise

Just an update for those interested, Toby passed away in his sleep and was buried. He was so young, and so sorry I couldn't do more to help him. Kari

Im so sorry to hear this Kari! Toby is up in heaven now and not having to worry about anymore problems and possible pain that he was dealing with. I hope you and your family are taking this well. I know how hard it is to lose a furkid :(

I am sorry to hear of your loss Kari it is well he had your care and love for the short time he was able to be yours.

So sorry...........

I am so sorry for your loss. Heather