Helping Aging Dogs with GOLPP

Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy (GOLPP) is a progressive condition that affects nerve function, leading to laryngeal paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and hind limb weakness. While there is no cure, some non-surgical interventions may help manage symptoms and slow progression:

1. Diet & Feeding Adjustments
   
   Elevated Feeding: Feed your dog from a raised bowl to reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
   
   Soft/Moist Food: Avoid dry kibble; consider adding broth, wet food, or blending food to make swallowing easier.
   
   Small, Frequent Meals: Helps reduce the risk of choking and regurgitation.
   
   2. Supplements & Medications
   
   Nerve Support:
   
   

   Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) – Supports nerve function and may slow neuropathy progression.
   
   Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) – Supports mitochondrial function and nerve regeneration.
   
   Methylcobalamin (B12) – Essential for nerve health and regeneration.
   
   Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduces inflammation and supports overall nerve and brain health.
   
   Phosphatidylserine – May aid nerve function and cognition.
   
   
   Muscle Support and Anti-Inflammatories:

   Turmeric/Curcumin – Natural anti-inflammatory.
   
   Boswellia – Helps reduce inflammation in the nerves and joints.
   
   CBD Oil – May help with pain, inflammation, and overall well-being.

Gut & Swallowing Support:

GastroElm Plus – Helps coat the throat and soothe irritation, as well as support for vital organs.

3. Physical Therapy & Mobility Support

Hydrotherapy – Swimming or underwater treadmill therapy can strengthen hind legs without stressing joints.

Laser Therapy & PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy) – May help with nerve function and inflammation.

Gentle Strength Training – Assisted walking, balance exercises, and slow incline walking to maintain muscle mass.

Joint Support – Collagen may support mobility.  More information below.

4. Environmental Modifications

Non-Slip Flooring: Use rugs or yoga mats to prevent slipping.

Support Harness: A sling or rear-support harness can help with mobility.
Cool & Calm Environment: Heat and stress can worsen symptoms, so keeping your dog cool and minimizing excitement may help.

5. Respiratory Support

Avoid Extreme Heat & Humidity: Overheating can worsen laryngeal paralysis.

Fans & Cooling Mats: Helps keep your dog comfortable.

Avoid Excessive Barking: Straining the vocal cords can worsen symptoms.

Colla3 Collagen

Colla3 could be very beneficial for a dog with GOLPP due to its unique combination of Type II hydrolyzed collagen and high quality bovine collagen. 

Here’s how each component may help:

1. Type II Hydrolyzed Collagen (50%)

Supports cartilage and joint health – Type II collagen is a major structural protein in cartilage, which may help maintain mobility in the hind legs.

May aid nerve sheath protection – Since nerves are surrounded by connective tissue, providing collagen may support nerve structure and function.

Can help maintain airway integrity – Laryngeal paralysis involves weakened cartilage around the larynx, and Type II collagen may contribute to structural support.

2. Bovine Collagen (50%)

Boosts overall connective tissue health – Bovine collagen is rich in Type I and III collagen, which supports skin, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

Improves muscle and tendon strength – This could help counteract the muscle atrophy common in GOLPP.

Supports gut health – Since digestion and nutrient absorption can be affected, collagen may promote intestinal lining integrity.

Potential Benefits for GOLPP

May slow hind limb weakness by supporting nerve and muscle health.
Could help maintain airway cartilage strength and reduce collapse risk.
Supports joint function to improve mobility.

May improve swallowing and gut health, reducing risk of aspiration pneumonia.

AlternativeTherapies:

Both acupuncture and MagnaWave therapy (PEMF) can be beneficial for dogs with Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy (GOLPP) by promoting nerve function, reducing inflammation, and improving overall comfort.

Acupuncture for GOLPP

Acupuncture stimulates nerve regeneration and improves circulation, which may help slow the progression of polyneuropathy. It has been shown to:

Improve nerve function by promoting blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
Reduce pain and inflammation, which can help with mobility and swallowing discomfort.

Support hind limb strength by stimulating nerve pathways and muscle activation.
Help respiratory function by relaxing the larynx and reducing airway inflammation.

Best types of acupuncture for GOLPP:

Electroacupuncture – Uses mild electrical stimulation to enhance nerve function.

Traditional acupuncture – Helps restore energy flow and relax the body.

Aqua acupuncture – Injects B12 or saline into acupuncture points for a longer-lasting effect.

Many veterinary neurologists and holistic vets recommend acupuncture for nerve-related conditions like GOLPP, and some dogs respond very well to it.

MagnaWave Therapy (PEMF) for GOLPP

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy, like MagnaWave, is known to:

Reduce inflammation in nerves and tissues, which may slow nerve degeneration.

Stimulate cellular repair and nerve regeneration to improve motor function.

Enhance circulation to the muscles and nerves.

Relieve pain and stiffness in the hind legs and support mobility.

PEMF therapy can be applied to:

The neck and throat area to support the larynx and swallowing function.
The spinal column and hind limbs to support nerve signaling and strength.
The general body to improve overall comfort and reduce inflammation.

Which is Better?

Acupuncture may be more targeted for nerve regeneration and respiratory function.

PEMF (MagnaWave) may be better for overall inflammation reduction and muscle strength.

Combining both could provide the best results, as they complement each other.