Niko’s Surgery

Meet Niko,

he’s approximately 4-month-old, Lab mix, who presented to the shelter in late January. The kennel staff noted that Niko was consistently regurgitating after eating. X-rays of his chest and abdomen were performed, which revealed findings consistent with a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA).

A persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) is a congenital abnormality of the blood vessels of the heart that affect esophageal function. Essentially, part of the neonatal blood circulation fails to regress and wraps around and partially occludes the esophagus. Puppies commonly present with regurgitation of food after weaning. Common clinical signs include weight loss despite a good appetite and regurgitation. Unfortunately, aspiration pneumonia is a high risk for these patients due to the accumulation of food in the esophagus and regular regurgitation. Aspiration pneumonia is a very serious condition that can be fatal without aggressive treatment. A PRAA can only be cured by surgically transecting the vessel that is occluding the esophagus. A few weeks post-operative, patients’ esophageal function should return to normal.

Niko has been doing well in a foster home with elevated liquid feedings to help get food past the stricture and provide nutrition. With the constant risk of aspiration pneumonia, this is not a long-term option. Fortunately, surgery is usually very successful, and Niko can live a normal life!

Our goal is to raise $3,000 for little Niko’s surgery so he can live a healthy life. Texas A&M will be assisting in Niko’s advanced imaging (CT scan), surgery and associated aftercare. Please consider donating to help Niko. Thank you for being a loving and supportive community.