Acid Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux or acid reflux is a condition characterized by stomach acids leaking into the esophagus, throat and mouth causing inflammation. The most common symptom is excessive salivation. Other symptoms include regurgitation of food, howling or whining while swallowing, loss of appetite and loss of weight. Acid reflux can have many causes. Some of the common causes are anesthesia,  persistent severe vomiting, congenital hiatal hernia, food poisoning and indigestion. A young dog whose sphincters are still forming is at a greater risk of developing acid reflux than a mature dog. Acid reflux is diagnosed by a procedure called esophagoscopy which involves inserting a camera down the dog's esophagus to look for any abnormalities. Treatment of acid reflux is a strict low fat, low protein diet given in small amounts spread throughout the day. In severe cases medication may also be required.