What is Collapsing Trachea?

The trachea, or windpipe, is the tube connecting the throat to the lungs. The cartilage rings do not completely encircle the windpipe, but only cover about (83%) of the circumference. The rest is made up of tissue and smooth muscle fibers around it that aid in coughing and constricting the trachea. It Collapsing Trachea (CT) or Tracheal Collapse is a progressive respiratory disease, where the tracheal rings that are made up of cartilage slowly flatten out and weaken over time. As the disease progresses, the tracheal rings can become so collapsed that it can be life threatening. Have no fear though, the disease can be managed medically for years if found in the earlier stages and managed medically. This condition typically emerges around the age of 5 to 7 yrs. of age in smaller breeds such as Yorkies, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Poodles, and Pugs. Just to name a few. It can also be passed on through genetics and while it is more rare a smaller breed can be born with the diseases causing more issues at a much earlier stage in their life.

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What is Laryngeal Paralysis?

A condition that is detrimental to the overall well being of a dog is called Laryngeal Paralysis. This affects the muscles that open the voice box, the Larynx. The structure of a dog’s Larynx is a short section of airway between the throat and trachea which is commonly referred to as the windpipe.  A fully functional normal larynx consists of the muscles contracting and pulling the cartilage out of the way allowing the airway to open. Improper opening and closing can lead to significant problems when breathing, because the airway is blocked by the immobile cartilage. When breathing out the muscles relax, and the cartilage closes the airways off. Laryngeal paralysis can also cause problems when eating or drinking because the airway isn't fully covered and food and fluid may escape down into the trachea making a dog more susceptible to aspiration. Laryngeal Paralysis is normally a large dog disease. Some of the breed more prone to this disease would be. The most commonly affected breeds for idiopathic laryngeal paralysis are Irish Setters and Labrador Retrievers. A harness should always be used to avoid pulling or tugging on these breeds neck area. Often times this can be the reason that Lar-Par develops. The congenital form is seen more in Bouvier de Flandres, Siberian Huskies, Bull Terriers and Dalmatians, and clinical signs usually occur at an early age in these breeds.

Progression of signs is often slow; months to years may pass before an animal develops severe respiratory distress. For most animals treated with one-sided surgery for paralysis, the outcome is favorable. Many owners report their elderly pet “has a new lease on life” and is “more than 100% improved”

*See more info about Lar Par and how to prolong your dogs life under our member section