Megaesophagus is a condition causing enlargement and loss of motility in the esophagus, leading to regurgitation of undigested food. Welfare management requires lifelong modifications to feeding position and food consistency to prevent aspiration pneumonia.
Dogs with unmanaged megaesophagus experience recurrent aspiration pneumonia causing fever, difficulty breathing, and distress. Repeated hospitalisation for pneumonia management is costly and stressful. With Bailey chairs and appropriate food modification, welfare can be dramatically improved. The condition requires significant owner commitment and veterinary guidance, and dogs can suffer if owners cannot sustain the intensive management required.