XXX XXXXX XXXXXX,
First , I must offer my sincerest regrets at the loss of your pet. I can only imagine how you must feel, and based on your trip to the vet hospital, I know you would have done anything to save her, if you could.
Encephalitis as a disease entity is more commonly caused by viruses, protozoal organisms, and fungal organisms. Ticks can transmit disease that can cause encephalitis, and many breeds of dogs can be prone to various degrees of neurologic encephalitis( pugs).
GME is more of a disease of OLDER or at least middle-aged pets that tends to advance at a modest pace and not SUDDENLY. So, I am not sure why they felt that your girl might have had GME.
Genetics, in Yorkies, likely had nothing to do with what happened to your pet. Unless you can find proof that other Yorkies in her bloodline have had similar neurologic problems, a genetic link is not likely.
Luckily, you did grant them permission to do an autopsy, and with those results, you should be able to put closure on the condition that helped contribute to her death.
Had she NOT aspirated under anesthesia, there is the chance that her encephalitis could have been successfully treated with antibiotics and steroids, depending on the type. Unfortunately, you will never know.
All you can do is try to find peace in the fact that you gave her a loving home and excellent care during her time with you. Up til the end, everything that you did was in HER best interest.
I know it's hard to not try and "second" guess yourself about these type of things, but from my perspective as a vet, it is a wasted venture and only makes you more sad or frustrated.
The vets in question were skilled professionals. We never make recommendations to euthanize an animal unless we truly feel that their chances are minimal at recovery or that their quality of life would be questionable with continued therapeutics.
I would be interested to know of her final autopsy results once you get them.
Losing a pet can feel like losing a loved one, a family member, a friend. If you need the support of those whom have felt your pain and sadness, than please consider browsing a few of the Pet Loss Support sites I have provided below:
http://www.petloss.com/
http://www.pet-loss.net/
For more info on GME and Encephalitis, you may browse the following links:
http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_granulomatous_meningoencephali.html
http://www.animalmr.com/encephalitis_case_study.html
I hope that you found this information and the services at JustAnswer helpful.
Please remember to PRESS ACCEPT so that I can be compensated for my time and professional recommendations concerning your pet.I encourage feedback and appreciate bonuses of ANY size.
Once again, my sincerest sympathy on the loss of your pet.
Dr . Jodi Lynn Smith
Veterinarian
Veterinarian in Small Animal Practice for 13 years