Laryngeal paralysis is a serious condition that requires treatment and intervention. It occurs when the nerves that open and close the larynx or voice box become weak or paralyzed. When this occurs the muscles relax, and the cartilages tend to collapse inwards, resulting in laryngeal paralysis. The larynx opens and closes to ensure that food and water don’t travel down the windpipe into the lungs. It is a crucial bodily function, and one that must be treated as soon as a problem is observed, otherwise it can have very severe health implications.
What is Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs
Laryngeal paralysis occurs when the larynx stops functioning correctly. The larynx is comprised of a series of cartilage flaps which move open and shut to prevent food and drink from entering the lungs. When the nerves that move the larynx become weak, the cartilage flaps collapse inwards down the windpipe causing restricted air flow and trouble breathing. Laryngeal paralysis can be fatal if left untreated, however, if caught early, the larynx can be successfully operated on.
What Does Laryngeal Paralysis Sound Like in Dogs?
You know your dog best and will be aware of small changes to his behaviour. Laryngeal paralysis causes breathing changes which can be heard. The most commonly reported sign is coughing, especially after exercise, or eating or drinking. Noisy breathing is another common symptom, as well as, exercise intolerance, excessive panting, and a change in the sound of the bark, which is known as dysphonia. If you notice changes it is always best to get your dog checked over by a trusted vet. As with most conditions, the earlier it is spotted and the quicker it is treated, the better.
Causes
Laryngeal paralysis can occur for different reasons. One of the more common is as a symptom of neuromuscular disease. When this proves to be the case the condition is termed geriatric onset laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy (GOLPP). This condition can cause other neurological weaknesses such as rear leg weakness, and weakness in the oesophagus which causes difficulty with swallowing. Whilst neuromuscular disease is the most common cause of laryngeal paralysis in dogs, it can also be caused by tumours or lesions in the neck or chest, trauma to the throat, hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease, and congenital issues.
Symptoms
The symptoms of this condition will generally come on gradually. You will notice changes in your dog’s behaviour and the sounds that they make. If you have any concerns about changes to your dog, then it is always best to get them checked by your trusted vet. Common symptoms include; increased panting during stress or on hot days, noisy panting, reluctance to exercise, change to the noise of the bark, anxiety, coughing after exercise, or when eating or drinking, distress when breathing, or heat stroke. If the dog cannot get enough air into his lungs then he will collapse, you may also notice changes to the colour of the gums to dark red, purple or blue.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The vet will take a full history from you, and record all the symptoms that you have noted. This is vital information to form the initial diagnosis. The vet will need to sedate your dog to observe your dog’s larynx and see how it functions. They may also perform blood tests and chest X-rays. Once the vet has come to a diagnosis, they will suggest surgery as the best form of treatment. During the surgery, the vet will tie back one-half of the larynx to allow the air to move more freely. This is called a laryngeal tie-back surgery or Unilateral Arytenoid Lateralization (UAL).
Breeds That Commonly Develop Laryngeal Paralysis
Whilst any dog can potentially develop this condition, it is most common in certain giant or large breed dogs. These breeds include Labradors and Golden Retrievers, St. Bernards, Irish Setters, Newfoundlands, Bouvier des Flandres, Siberian Huskies, Bull Terriers, and Dalmatians.
Recovery and Management
The recovery after surgery will take a few weeks. Your dog will need to be kept quiet and on restricted exercise. The main management after surgery is that your dog should not be allowed to swim for the rest of their lives to avoid the risk of breathing in water. Coughing or gagging while eating or drinking is normal in the beginning but should get better over time. You will need to be aware of the symptoms of food or water aspiration, which is the most common complication of this surgery, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
Is Laryngeal Paralysis Fatal in Dogs?
If left untreated, laryngeal paralysis can be fatal. If treated in the early stages the surgery has a high success rate, and dogs can recover very well from the surgery, provided the post-surgery management advice is followed. Always contact your vet if you are concerned about any changes to your dog’s behaviour.
How Long Can Dogs Live With Laryngeal Paralysis?
Dogs are normally 10 years or older when they are diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis. Many dogs live for several years after their diagnosis, which given the size of the breeds that are commonly affected, takes many dogs up to their expected lifespan. The prognosis does depend on the type of laryngeal paralysis and any other complications that arise.
Come to Anrich Vets For Laryngeal Surgery
Here at Anrich Vets, we understand what your dogs mean to you. Our exceptional team are dedicated to providing a professional service to you and your dog. If you are looking for laryngeal surgery for your dog, or want a second opinion, we are here to help. We take on owners and their pets, as well as accepting referrals from other vets. At Anrich Vets, we are committed to providing exceptional care to the animals that we treat, and our state-of-the-art facilities give us the tools for advanced diagnostics and surgery. Our friendly, helpful and compassionate team are always on hand to help you. To book your appointment today, simply call 01942 242001