We had an autopsy done on Tucker and got some results by Monday afternoon. Tucker did not have a viral infection (good news for the other dogs!) but had a condition called megaesophagus which caused food to go into his lungs and cause infection. His lungs were consolidated, also. Tissue samples have been sent to the University of Georgia for more answers. This is not a common condition and it would be highly unlikely the other pups from the litter would have it--a huge relief.
I'm still trying to understand not only how this all happened so fast, but also this disorder. I found a good explanation at this website, http://www.marvistavet.net/html/body_megaesophagus.html
"The esophagus is the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. When food is perceived in the esophagus, neurologic reflex causing muscle contraction and relaxation lead to rapid transport of the food into the stomach, like an elevator going down. Other reflexes prevent breathing during this swallowing process to protect the lungs from aspiration.
When these reflexes are interrupted such as by disease in the esophageal tissue or nerve disease, the esophagus loses its ability to transport food. Instead the esophagus loses all tone and dilates. Also, the reflex protecting the lung is disrupted and aspiration pneumonia commonly follows."
We have heard from so many people after our devastating week-end. David and I want to thank you all for your kind words and support. It really has been a comfort and has helped more than you could know. Dog people are the best!
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