Meet Chippy Special Needs

Chippy is a 3-year-old male Shetland Sheepdog with lots of spunk. He is good with people and is a love. He is neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and ready to go to his new home. His companion went into assisted living and he is at Paws and Prayers. To meet him please do our non-obligatory application at www.pawsandprayers.org. His adoption fee is $300. Any questions, email marty@pawsandprayers.org. We have purchased a Bailey Chair for Chippy. Chippy suffers from Megaesophagus. Megaesophagus is a condition in which the muscles of the esophagus fail. This means they can no longer properly move food or water downward, into the stomach. A normal esophagus works with a muscular, wave-like motion to propel food and water into the stomach. In this condition, the esophagus remains enlarged and the normal peristaltic movement does not occur, so food stays in the esophagus instead of moving into the stomach to be digested. What types of foods do holistic vets recommend for dogs with megaesophagus? The diet for a pet with megaesophagus needs to be of a consistency that will easily move down through the esophagus without getting stuck. A “smoothie, moist porridge, or other soft consistency work well for many, though experimentation for the individual animal is often needed. Some dogs do best with food shaped into meatballs. A moist food may be blended in a blender or food processor to find a texture that works well for your pet. In lieu of 2 larger meals each day, it is recommended to feed 3-4 smaller meals. Both food and fluids need to be fed in an upright position and the animal should remain vertical between 15-30 minutes. A Bailey Chair is often used. Because high amounts of protein and fat require more stomach acid to digest, many experts recommend a diet lower in fats and protein and higher in carbs. This excess acid can cause erosion of the esophagus. The carbs help your pet maintain a good weight. Treatment of megaesophagus in dogs: There have been reports that chiropractic treatment can be effective for some cases of megaesophagus. Acupuncture may also prove helpful in some cases as it stimulates the natural normal peristaltic activity. Whole Grain Beef Recipe – Beef, two organic grains: 22% protein, 8.5% fat, 52% carbs Whole Grain Turkey Recipe - Turkey, organic oats: 21% protein, 15% fat, 52% carbs Grain Free Chicken Recipe - Chicken, grain free: 21% protein, 15% fat, 53% carbs