Older dogs may suffer from a condition known as idiopathic “old dog” vestibular disease. Heres everything you need to know.
Many pet parents believe an elderly dog’s head tilting and sudden stumbling gait are symptoms of a stroke or seizure. Some even think itâs a brain tumor. While it’s normal to assume the worst when these symptoms appear, they can also be an indication of a much less serious condition called canine idiopathic vestibular disease. Even though it appears terrible, it frequently gets better on its own with little to no treatment.
Symptoms of Vestibular Disease in Dogs
As was already mentioned, the condition vestibular disease affects balance. The following signs of canine vestibular disease may be present in your dog:
Is there a cure for vestibular disease?
The good news is that vestibular disease is not painful or dangerous and will probably go away on its own without treatment within a few weeks even though it may give your dog mild discomfort or motion sickness.
It is important to monitor your dogs symptoms carefully. Notify your veterinarian if, after a few days, you notice that your dog’s condition starts to deteriorate. Your dog’s symptoms will be examined by your veterinarian to rule out any additional causes.
Your veterinarian might suggest an anti-nausea drug if your dog has vestibular disease and experiences nausea and vomiting. If your dog is having trouble drinking water, your veterinarian may give him IV fluids to keep him hydrated.
Although the main course of action for canine idiopathic vestibular disease is to watch your dog heal.
Assist your dog with essential functions
Your vet will prescribe anti-nausea medication if your dog is vomiting or too nauseous to eat.⁶ You may have to bring your pup food and water closer to where they are resting, and you should consider switching their food to something easy to eat and digest. It’s important to note that your dog needs to eat and drink enough water, or they’ll become sicker.⁶ A good option to help them may be to elevate their food and water bowls so they dont have to reach their head down too far.
Dogs need time to walk independently to re-calibrate their vestibular system. By placing your hands on either side of their body, you can assist them in walking. Purchase a boosting harness to assist and support them, especially when going up and down stairs and during potty breaks. ⁴.
FAQ
How Long Can dogs live with vestibular disease?
There are numerous new GME medications available that are helping more dogs thrive. Currently, this disease has a 70% survival rate after one year, and many patients take medication and live longer, healthy lives.
Is vestibular disease in dogs curable?
While vestibular disease may make your dog feel a little queasy or uncomfortable, the good news is that it is not painful or dangerous and will probably go away on its own without treatment within a few weeks.
How often do dogs get vestibular disease?
Dogs are relatively susceptible to vestibular dysfunction, with a prevalence of 0. 08% reported in primary veterinary care in the UK.
How do you fix vestibular problems in dogs?
Usually, vestibular disease is treated with medications like antibiotics. Over several weeks, your veterinarian and you will work together to rehab your dog so they can regain their balance.