If you have a dog with Megaesophagus, then you will have to know what is a Bailey chair. It’s designed to keep your dog upright, so it doesn’t feel any discomfort.
A good Bailey chair can make your dog’s life more comfortable, but you need to understand what the seat is for and how to use it.
The Bailey Chair
This chair is also known as a “dog feeding chair” or “dog high chair.” It looks similar to the ones used by babies.
It is specially designed for canines with digestive and muscle problems like Megaesophagus or Myasthenia Gravis. Bailey chairs allow your dog to eat food and drink water better, so they don’t throw it all back out.
Why Does Your Dog Need A Bailey Chair?
When your dog has Megaesophagus, the food and water ingested don’t go down to the stomach. Instead, it stays in the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach called the gullet. This can lead to your pet regurgitating the undigested food.
With a Bailey chair, the food water can go into the stomach using gravity. No need to stress the weak muscles of your dog.
Everything will be appropriately digested, and your dog will receive the proper nutrients. This way, they will remain the happy and healthy pups you love.
What Is Canine Megaesophagus?
Megaesophagus is a disorder where the gullet or esophagus of a dog expands and loses its flexibility.
A normal functioning esophagus allows food to enter the stomach when the brain stimulates the swallow reflex. For a stretched-out gullet, though, the food and liquid get stuck in the tube, and it’s almost impossible to enter the stomach. This blockage in the throat can lead to your dog regurgitating its food.
Try not to confuse regurgitating with vomiting. The former is more violent and involves a lot of retching and heaving, and it’s usually caused by nausea.
On the other hand, regurgitation is passive. Your dog won’t show any signs of nausea and will simply expel the undigested food and liquid.
Megaesophagus is usually a genetic disorder, but it can also be acquired by dogs with age. These breeds are susceptible to the condition:
- Newfoundland
- Great Dane
- German Shepherd
- Greyhound
- Irish Setter
- Labrador Retriever
- Greyhound
- Shar-pei
Even some cats like the Siamese can develop Megaesophagus.
Can dogs live with it?
Don’t worry; your precious pup will still be able to live a long and happy life with Megaesophagus. You just have to help them when it comes to feeding time, and a Bailey chair is the perfect investment. Also, adjust their eating habits, give them several small meals instead of one large one.
Your dog can still run around and play just like others without the condition. Just remember to show them tons of love!
Can it be cured?
Right now, the best way to treat Megaesophagus in your dog is to keep them in an upright position. However, some new cures and treatments are being developed that involve surgery.
The least invasive and simplest way, though, is to use a Bailey chair when feeding your dog. It will make all the difference!
Step-By-Step Process How To Train Your Dog To Use A Bailey Chair
Your pooch needs to practice a bit before it masters how to use a Bailey chair. Make sure you have time and patience to train your dog how to use this seat.
Step #1. Familiarize your dog with the chair
Leave the seat in the area where you usually feed your pet. Allow your dog to sniff and study the new device.
Step #2. Praise your dog and give treats when it shows interest in the chair
Make sure to praise and reward your dog when it approaches the seat. These methods will develop a positive connection between the dog and the chair.
Step #3. Lure your pet inside
Try to allow your pet to go inside. It’s essential to remember not to force your dog.
Make the activity fun and lighthearted, almost like a game. Let your dog stay inside for a gradually extended time, and get him used to the door being closed.
Step#4. Feed your dog in the chair
When your dog is comfortable around the seat, you can give him a small meal. Then, shut the door and stay with your pooch for about 30 minutes to allow the food to go down. Then, talk with your pet and offer praise.
Dos And Don’ts When Training Your Dog
Training your dog to use the Bailey chair needs a lot of patience from both ends. Just remember there are some things you should avoid doing to make the seat a success.
Here are what you should do when you train your pet:
- Take things slowly
- Have treats ready
- Seek veterinary help when needed
Here are what you should avoid doing:
- Force the dog in the chair
- Leave your dog unattended
- Punish your dog in the chair
Conclusion
Megaesophagus may sound like a dire condition, but it can be manageable when you take care of your pup well. First, you have to know what is a Bailey chair and use it on your pet. Then, with the proper training, your dog will have a normal and happy life without worrying about malnutrition and regurgitated food.