GOLPP in Dogs: Understanding Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy

If your older dog, especially a large breed like a Labrador Retriever, struggles with noisy breathing, a changed bark, or seems to have trouble swallowing, GOLPP may be the culprit. GOLPP (Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy) is a complex disease that affects senior dogs, gradually impacting their breathing, swallowing, and even their ability to walk. In this article, we will discuss what GOLPP in dogs actually is, the symptoms, and what can be done to help your dog.

What is GOLPP in dogs?

GOLPP refers to Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy and is a progressive neurological disease that primarily affects older dogs, often large breeds like Labrador Retrievers.

Here's what it does:

• Breathing issues: GOLPP damages the nerves controlling the voice box (larynx). This makes it hard for your dog to breathe properly, causing noisy breathing, panting, and potential difficulty getting enough air.
• Swallowing problems: It can also affect the nerves involved in swallowing, leading to gagging, coughing, or food getting stuck.
• Movement issues: As GOLPP progresses, it weakens the nerves controlling leg muscles, causing a wobbly gait and difficulty walking.

Causes of GOLPP in dogs

Unfortunately, the exact cause of GOLPP remains unknown. However, we strongly believe it's linked to a condition called polyneuropathy. This means damage is happening to multiple nerves throughout your dog's body.

The most obvious nerve affected is the one controlling the voice box (larynx), which explains the breathing difficulties. This is called laryngeal paralysis. GOLPP also impacts nerves responsible for swallowing and even those involved in leg movement.

Here's a simplified way to think about it:

• Nerves are like wires: They carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord, controlling everything your dog does.
• GOLPP damages those wires: Messages get scrambled, causing breathing problems, swallowing issues, and wobbliness.

Why this nerve damage happens, especially in older dogs, is still being investigated. Research is ongoing, and hopefully, we'll have a clearer understanding of GOLPP's root cause in the future.

What are the signs and symptoms of GOLPP?

GOLPP often starts with subtle signs that are easy to miss or confuse with normal aging. However, early recognition is key to helping your dog.

Here are the main symptoms of GOLPP in dogs that you should watch out for:

Breathing changes

• Noisy breathing, especially when panting or excited
• A harsh, raspy sound (stridor)
• A change in your dog's bark
• Difficulty exercising or getting tired easily
• Bluish gums (in severe cases)

Swallowing difficulties

• Gagging, coughing, or throat-clearing, especially after eating or drinking
• Bringing up food (regurgitation). This is different from vomiting. With regurgitation, the food comes back up without much effort, often shortly after eating. Vomiting, on the other hand, involves forceful expulsion of stomach contents and may include abdominal heaving.

Movement issues

• A wobbly or uncoordinated walk, especially in the back legs
• Trouble getting up, climbing stairs, or jumping into the car
• Scuffing the tops of the paws when walking

Tip: Some of these signs overlap with other conditions. It's important to have your veterinarian examine your dog to rule out other potential causes and get a proper GOLPP diagnosis.

How will your veterinarian diagnose GOLPP?

Getting a definitive diagnosis of GOLPP is important because other conditions can mimic its symptoms.

Your veterinarian will start by asking detailed questions about your dog's symptoms when they started, and if they're getting worse. They'll then perform a thorough physical exam, carefully examining your dog's respiratory and neurological systems.

An important part of the diagnosis is a laryngeal exam. This is done with sedation and involves visualizing your dog's voice box (larynx) in action, allowing your vet to confirm GOLPP. Sedation is required as the larynx cannot be seen in the awake patient. Your vet will be looking directly at the laryngeal, and arytenoid muscles and how they move during the different breathing phases.

Your veterinarian might also recommend chest X-rays to rule out other breathing problems and check whether there are signs of aspiration pneumonia which is unfortunately common in this condition. This occurs because dogs with GOLPP have issues swallowing food and water due to nerve dysfunction which can enter the lungs and cause severe pneumonia.

What is the treatment for GOLPP in dogs?

While there is no cure for GOLPP, there are treatment options available that can help manage your dog's symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Here's what we typically focus on with treatment:

Surgery for laryngeal paralysis

The most common surgical procedure is called a "tie-back." This involves permanently securing part of the voice box (larynx) in an open position, making it easier for your dog to breathe. It's important to note that this carries a risk of aspiration pneumonia (food/water entering the lungs).

Managing swallowing issues

Your veterinarian might suggest:

• Feeding your dog in an upright position or using a raised food bowl
• Medications such as cisapride or metoclopramide to help their esophagus function better.
• Modifying their food consistency (softer or liquid diets)

Physical therapy

Exercises specifically designed for dogs with GOLPP can help maintain muscle strength and coordination, slowing down the effects of nerve damage. This might include water treadmill therapy, controlled walks, and specific exercises.

Living with a dog with GOLPP

As GOLPP is a progressive disease, it's important to understand that your dog's symptoms may worsen over time. However, with the right treatment and management plan in place, they can still live a happy and comfortable life.

Here are some key aspects of managing GOLPP at home:

• Rechecks with your veterinarian: Regular check-ups are essential. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog's condition, adjust medications, and discuss any changes in their needs.
• Watching for aspiration pneumonia: Be super aware of early signs like lethargy, fever, cough or changes to breathing rates, and decreased appetite. Early treatment is imperative for a successful recovery.
• Managing the environment:
  • Minimize stress and excitement, as this can worsen breathing difficulties.
  • Avoid hot weather. Dogs exercising in hot weather can exacerbate the breathing issues seen with GOLPP.
  • Consider using a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the neck.
• Feeding adjustments:
  • Your vet will advise on feeding positions, food consistency, and any medications to support swallowing.
  • Monitor your dog's weight closely to ensure they maintain a healthy condition.
• Staying active:
  • Regular, gentle exercise is important. Discuss an appropriate exercise plan with your vet or a veterinary physiotherapist.
  • Consider swimming or water therapy which can be low-impact and beneficial.

GOLPP is a neurological disorder seen in dogs with an unknown cause. It stands for Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy. While GOLPP in dogs is a serious, progressive condition, it doesn't mean the end of happy times for you and your dog. With knowledge, proper medical care, and adjustments to your dog's routine, dogs with GOLPP can enjoy a good quality of life for a significant time.