Continued Care
All pets, regardless of having surgery, need medical care
before, during and after diagnosis.
Management of esophageal dysfunction
Discovering the most comfortable and effective feeding position for your dog, especially if they have swallowing difficulties, might require some experimentation. A study in 2013 explored various feeding angles but did not conclude a universally best method. Some dogs benefit from eating at an incline or while sitting up, improving their swallowing function. However, for others, it might not make a difference, or they may even do better eating and drinking on the floor. It's advisable for you to try different feeding positions with your dog to see which works best. If you find that feeding at an incline is helpful, keeping your dog in this upright position for about 10 minutes after eating can be beneficial.
To help minimize acid reflux, which is a common concern, medications are often recommended. While Metoclopramide was once widely used, it's not considered as effective as some newer options, though it can still reduce throat-clearing in some dogs. Cisapride is another option that has been found to lessen throat-clearing symptoms. The latest preferred medication is sildenafil, known to aid esophageal function and reduce gastroesophageal reflux events. However, it's important to note that despite various reports of these drugs' effectiveness, there hasn't been a definitive, controlled study proving which is the most effective at reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. It's essential to consult with your vet to determine the best course of action for your pet.
Rehabilitation
For dogs diagnosed with GOLPP, engaging in rehabilitation programs focused on muscle strengthening, balance, and coordination is key to managing their condition effectively. These programs are designed to not just slow the disease's progression but also to improve your furry friend's overall well-being and extend their life. It's crucial for pet owners to consult with a rehabilitation specialist who can recommend specific exercises and therapies tailored to our dogs' needs. Additionally, utilizing rehabilitation videos for at-home exercises can be a great source of support, helping owners to provide the best ongoing care for their beloved companions.
Owner Knowledge
Finding out that your dog has been diagnosed with GOLPP can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. That's why accessing educational resources is so important for us, the dog owners. Comprehensive materials have been created to help pet owners understand various aspects of GOLPP, including an overview of the condition, rehabilitation techniques, feeding recommendations, discharge checklists, and more. These resources are designed to offer clarity and guidance through this difficult period. Please take advantage of these handouts and resource links to gain valuable insights into effectively managing GOLPP in your pet.
Follow Up Care
As a pet owner, it's crucial for us to ensure our dogs receive consistent follow-up care for the rest of their lives, especially if they're affected by certain conditions. Veterinarians recommend check-ups every 6 months until the end of our pet's life, which typically ranges from 2-4 years.
It's widely observed that most dogs with these conditions will experience a steady progression of symptoms. However, it's also common for many dogs to pass away from other unrelated conditions. Interestingly, there's a group of dogs that show a remarkably slow progression of neurological symptoms, taking over 4 years. This slow progression is one of the reasons why such neurodegenerative diseases were not recognized sooner.
The benefits of establishing a strong relationship with our vet during this challenging time cannot be overstated for both the dog and us, the owners. This is when we rely heavily on our vet's expertise to educate and advise us on what to expect, how to manage our pet's condition, and, when the time comes, making the humane decision to euthanize. This support is invaluable in navigating the complexities of our pet's health and well-being.