As further work is done on this subject, it could start to make its way through to vets who will be able to prescribe it to owners with dogs suffering from megaesophagus.

Mars Petcare Australia has voluntarily recalled Advance Dermocare dry food, after learning a number of dogs have been affected by megaesophagus, a condition not usually linked to food.Nine police dog squad members, including one who was euthanased, have been struck down by the condition — an enlargement of the oesophagus.