Myasthenia gravis in dogs causes debilitating muscle weakness and life-threatening megaesophagus through immune destruction of acetylcholine receptors, requiring careful management to prevent fatal aspiration.
Dogs with MG face a two-front welfare challenge: the debilitating weakness that prevents normal activity, and the constant aspiration risk from megaesophagus. The Bailey chair - a specialized feeding chair that keeps dogs upright during and after meals - is a welfare revolution that has saved many MG dogs' lives. Owners who master the Bailey chair regimen and recognize early aspiration signs provide dramatically better welfare outcomes. Regular monitoring for thymoma, which can trigger MG, is also important for long-term welfare.