Helping Your Dog Overcome Laryngeal Paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis is a condition where the nerves controlling the vocal cords are damaged, causing breathing difficulties in dogs. This can be a life-threatening condition if not treated promptly.

Dogs with laryngeal paralysis may exhibit symptoms such as panting, difficulty breathing, and a distinctive barking or raspy sound. Their breathing may become more labored, especially after exercise or eating.

The primary cause of laryngeal paralysis is the degeneration of the laryngeal nerves, which can be due to various factors including age, genetics, and certain medical conditions. In some cases, the condition may be caused by a tumor or trauma to the throat area.

Dogs with laryngeal paralysis require regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their condition and prevent complications.

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Laryngeal paralysis in dogs can be a tricky condition to diagnose, as the symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for other age-related issues. This is especially true for medium to large dogs who are middle-aged or older.

Common symptoms of laryngeal paralysis include coughing following exercise, exercise intolerance, and a change in the sound of your dog's bark. These symptoms can be subtle and may not always be taken seriously.

Coughing when eating or drinking is another symptom of laryngeal paralysis. This can be a sign that your dog's airway is being obstructed.

Sudden and severe cases of laryngeal paralysis can result in a blue tinge to the mouth caused by respiratory distress or even collapse. This is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Here are some common symptoms of laryngeal paralysis:

If your dog has severe laryngeal paralysis, surgery can be very effective in improving their quality of life. Surgery, such as Arytenoid lateralization by tie-back, can be done to prevent obstruction when breathing.

In some cases, surgery is not the best option, and your vet may recommend alternative treatments. For early-stage laryngeal paralysis, your vet may try treatment alternatives such as anti-inflammatory drugs, sedatives, antibiotics, or doxepin to help reduce breathing difficulties.

You can also take steps at home to help your dog feel more comfortable. Avoid putting a collar around your dog's neck and have them wear a harness on walks instead.

Don't let your dog engage in strenuous exercise in hot weather, as this can exacerbate breathing difficulties.

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You want to find a vet who's experienced with laryngeal paralysis in dogs.

Look for a vet who has a good understanding of the condition and its treatment options.

Consider a vet who has access to specialized equipment, such as an endoscope, to help diagnose and treat the condition.

A vet who has experience with surgery to treat laryngeal paralysis can be a good choice.

It's a good idea to ask for referrals from friends, family, or other dog owners who have dealt with laryngeal paralysis.

Check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of a vet's reputation and level of expertise.

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As you prepare to help your dog with laryngeal paralysis, it's essential to understand what to expect.

Symptoms will likely worsen over time, especially during exercise or hot weather. This is because the paralysis causes the dog's airway to become more constricted, making breathing more difficult.

You'll need to monitor your dog's condition closely and adjust their lifestyle accordingly. This may involve limiting exercise and avoiding strenuous activities.

Your veterinarian will likely recommend a series of tests to determine the severity of the paralysis and rule out other potential causes. These tests may include a physical examination, radiographs, and endoscopy.

You can expect to see a significant improvement in your dog's quality of life with proper care and management. This may involve medication, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments.

Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. This may involve a combination of therapies and interventions.

With time and patience, your dog can learn to adapt to their condition and live a happy, healthy life.

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After your dog has undergone a laryngeal tieback procedure, it's essential to make some changes to ensure their ongoing success.

First and foremost, never use a neck collar for restraint or to lead walk your dog - a harness is a much better option.

A dry, dusty food can be more prone to being breathed in, so it's best to avoid it altogether.

Heat stress is another thing to watch out for, as your dog still has a degree of compromise to their upper airway and can easily become stressed by heat.

Monitor your pet for signs of sickness or attempts to cough, as these can indicate pneumonia - if you're at all concerned, consult a veterinary surgeon right away.

To summarize the key takeaways, here are some long-term management tips to keep in mind: