Even the most attentive dog owners occasionally miss the signs of a dog’s brain damage. Additionally, even if the symptoms are identified, it may not always be obvious that the dog has suffered a brain injury. It’s crucial to visit the vet if your dog has experienced any kind of brain trauma to rule out the possibility of brain damage. Like in people, there might not be any symptoms right away. Veterinarian Dr. Ivana provides warning signs of canine brain damage and what to look for.
The consciousness and intelligence of the dog come from its brain. It allows the dog to feel and express emotions and regulates almost all bodily functions, from essentials like appetite and sleep to sensory perceptions. The neurons in the brain interact with every living cell in the body to perform all of these tasks. Select chemicals known as neurotransmitters and nerves are used in that communication.
Anatomically, the dog’s brain is similar to the human brain, but it is only about a quarter of the size, so how does the dog’s brain function? The cerebrum, a large portion of a dog’s brain that is divided into two hemispheres, is the structure with the most brain tissue. The corpus gallosum, a network of nerve fibers, connects the two hemispheres.
The cerebral cortex, which facilitates learning and sensory perception, makes up the outer layer of the dog’s brain. The brain stem, which connects to the spinal cord, monitors the dog’s heart rate and breathing in the lower brain, where the cerebellum is in charge of muscle coordination.
The thalamus, which transmits sensory information to the cortex, and the hypothalamus, which controls bodily functions and the pituitary gland’s ability to regulate hormones, are located in the central region of the brain. The meninges are a series of tissue layers that serve as the brain’s primary defense.
Brain cells are responsible for a plethora of different functions. Therefore, they need plenty of nourishment to function correctly. Even though it only makes up about 2% of a dog’s body weight, the brain receives about 20% of the blood that the heart pumps out. Its most significant need is for oxygen. The brain is by far the bodys most oxygen-hungry organ. Even 20 seconds of oxygen deprivation can result in permanent brain damage. The sugar glucose is also essential. Low blood sugar levels dramatically interfere with brain function.
Are there any other treatments that are appropriate for a dog with a brain injury?
Any dog with a brain injury needs to eat well in order to promote recovery. If eating is difficult or impossible, this may require tube feeding at first. If the skull is fractured, a foreign object penetrates the skull, or there is an accumulation of fluid or blood inside the skull, surgery may be required.
Medicines may be required to lower pressure inside the skull by either assisting the body in removing excess fluid or by aiding in the removal of excess fluid from the brain’s tissues. To protect the brain from further damage, heavy sedation, painkillers, or even a brief state of general anesthesia may be necessary. To help the patient breathe, a tube can be inserted into the windpipe if enough oxygen is available. It might be necessary to give the dog intravenous glucose if his blood sugar levels are too low. Alternately, intravenous insulin may be required if the dog’s blood sugar level is too high.
What is a brain injury?
Brain injuries are devastating and, unfortunately, often fatal. Both primary brain injuries, which result from an insult to the brain directly, and secondary brain injuries, which happen after the primary brain injury, exist. Blood loss from a brain blood vessel or brain tissue swelling are examples of secondary brain injuries.
Despite having thicker skulls than humans, dogs can still harm their brains or skulls. Many of the same head injuries that affect humans can also affect dogs. Automobile collisions, falls, and roughhousing are the three most typical causes of head injuries in dogs. Accidents involving cars and high-altitude falls can result in some very serious injuries.
Additionally, a veterinarian can perform a neurological examination to check for indications of brain damage. Brain damage can lead to motor and mental problems. Even though these symptoms are very severe, many dogs improve with the right care and recovery time. A veterinarian will be able to help you better understand the issue and what special care your dog might require in the future if there is an ongoing neurological problem.
Take your dog to a veterinary hospital right away if you see your dog exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above. Calling the hospital on the way there to let them know you’re coming is a good idea. You must be able to keep your dog relaxed and warm while you’re traveling to prevent shock. Lethargy, weakness, pale gums, and a racing heart are all signs of shock.
The most typical type of head trauma in dogs is concussions. Most canines recover fully from concussions, but if treatment is delayed or there has been severe head trauma, the concussion may have permanently damaged the dog’s brain.
You should restrict your dog’s activity to only the necessities while it recovers from head trauma, such as eating and quick trips outside for bathroom breaks. You can confine your pet to a small space, crate, or pen to limit activity. Because it is more comfortable and you can better keep an eye on your dog there, it is best to keep your dog in the area where you spend the majority of your time.
FAQ
Can hitting a dog in the head cause brain damage?
Take your dog to the closest veterinary facility for immediate care if your dog has suffered a serious head injury and is displaying any signs of head trauma. Untreated brain swelling from a head injury can cause seizures, coma, and even death. If left untreated, head trauma can become fatal.
What should I do if my dog hits his head?
- Remain composed because your dog can sense your stress.
- Phone a local vet immediately.
- If your dog has external wounds that are bleeding profusely. Apply direct pressure with a clean non-fluffy cloth.
- Transport the animal to the veterinary clinic while keeping it warm.