Signs of a Stroke in Dogs
Dogs can be affected by multiple emergency health conditions including a stroke. Strokes are just as serious for dogs as they are for people. So, it is important to know what signs to look for and to know what to do if you suspect your pup is experiencing a stroke.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to be deprived of oxygen. This is often sudden and the impact on your dog can vary depending on the affected area of the brain. The longer that the brain is deprived of blood flow, the more severe the stroke and the effects. But don’t fret! There are multiple visible signs that indicate your dog could be experiencing a stroke.
Causes of a Stroke
While there is no way to prevent a stroke, it is important to be vigilant if your dog is older or if you have a larger, more active breed. Additionally, dogs with other health conditions are more at risk for strokes. This can include heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease among others. It is important to keep your pup healthy and visit the veterinarian regularly to detect and treat underlying diseases early to minimize the risk of a stroke.
It is also important to keep your pup healthy by feeding him a nutritious diet and engaging in regular walks and activities. Here is a resource to determine what to look for in dog food labels to ensure a nutrient-dense diet.
Signs of a Stroke
Common signs of a stroke in your canine include:
- loss of balance
- pacing/circling
- head tilt
- turning the wrong way when called
- abnormal eye movement or expressions
- impaired vision
- loss of control over bladder
- loss of consciousness or collapsing
- weakness
- paralysis in one or more limbs
However, other conditions can produce similar signs in your furry friend. For instance, The vestibular system includes structures in the inner ear and brain that help maintain balance and coordination. Older dogs more commonly develop Vestibular Syndrom that mimics symptoms of a stroke. Consider your dog’s health and age when examining your pup’s symptoms and treatment.
If you notice your pal is panting more heavily than normal, determine what could be causing this symptom with this link.
What to do if My Dog Has a Stroke
If you notice any of the symptoms above and suspect your companion has had a stroke, go to the vet to seek care immediately. It is also advised to keep your dog calm to prevent any injury. Proper diagnosis of a stroke is important to ensure that your pal receives the appropriate treatment. Your vet will do a full examination to rule out other problems. From there you can trust your vet to take care of your dog with treatment and to recommend other tests or care options.
It may take some time to see signs of improvement in your furry friend. Some dogs may never fully recover but it won’t stop your pal from living happily for a long time after having a stroke. Now that you know what signs can indicate a stroke, you can better and more quickly treat your pal.