Ask Before Petting: How To Stroke A Dog Safely

Dogs are man's best friend, and it's only natural to want to show them affection. However, it's important to approach and pet a dog in a way that makes them feel comfortable. While you may be inclined to pat a dog on the head, this can be perceived as threatening behaviour. Instead, it's recommended that you approach the dog from the side, lower yourself to their level, and offer your hand to let them sniff first. If they do, then you're safe to pet them. The best places to stroke a dog include the chest, shoulders, base of the neck, and under the chin. Remember to always stroke gently and avoid being too heavy-handed.

How to approach a dog you don't know

Approaching a dog you don't know can be a tricky situation. Here are some tips on how to safely approach a strange dog:

• Always ask for the owner's permission before petting their dog. It's important to remember that not all dogs are comfortable with strangers approaching and touching them. By asking the owner, you can avoid any potential issues and respect the dog's space.
• When approaching the dog, do so slowly and calmly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises, as these can startle the dog and cause them to feel threatened.
• Crouch down or squat to the dog's level while keeping your body relaxed and non-threatening. Avoid standing or looming over the dog, as this can be seen as a dominant posture and may cause the dog to feel intimidated.
• Extend your hand slowly towards the dog and allow them to come to you. If the dog approaches you with a wagging tail, you can gently pet them. If they back away or seem hesitant, it's best to respect their space and not force any interaction.
• Pay attention to the dog's body language. A stiff or tightly tucked tail can indicate discomfort. Even a wagging tail doesn't always mean the dog is happy; if their hair is raised on their back or their ears are pinned back, proceed with caution.
• Always be cautious and trust your instincts. If a dog seems nervous or aggressive, it's best to avoid approaching them. The safety of both yourself and the dog should be the top priority.

Remember, every dog is different, and it's important to respect their boundaries and the owner's instructions when interacting with them.

Signs of a stroke in dogs

Strokes in dogs are rare but serious and always require immediate veterinary care. They occur when there is a disruption to the blood flow to the brain, which causes brain cells to die.

• Loss of balance or body control
• Unusual or abnormal eye movements, such as back and forth movement or loss of blink reflexes
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Loss of bladder control
• Inability to breathe
• Extreme tiredness or loss of consciousness
• Disorientation or circling, appearing as though they are drunk and unable to walk in a straight line
• Head tilt
• Nausea or vomiting due to balance issues
• Abrupt changes in behaviour, such as a change in personality or less awareness of surroundings

If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical.

What to do if your dog has a stroke

Strokes in dogs can be serious and always require immediate veterinary care. Here is what to do if your dog has a stroke:

Recognise the Signs

Dogs can't tell you they're having a stroke, but they will exhibit certain behaviours that indicate something is wrong. These signs often appear suddenly and may differ depending on the area of the brain affected. Signs of a stroke in dogs include:

• Nausea or vomiting due to balance issues
• Wandering in circles
• Loss of body control
• Unusual eye movements, such as back and forth movement or loss of blink reflexes
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Misjudging their steps
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Confusion or disorientation
• Abrupt changes in behaviour
• Loss of housetraining
• Change in personality
• Less awareness of surroundings
• Falling/listing to one side

Act Quickly

If you think your dog is having a stroke, act fast. While strokes can be confused with other conditions, such as fainting spells and vestibular disease, it's best to consult a veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms. Contact your veterinarian immediately and, if possible, note the timeline of events, such as what your dog was doing before the symptoms started and the symptoms you observed.

Transport Your Dog Safely

When transporting your dog to the vet or emergency hospital, put smaller dogs in a carrier. For larger dogs, carefully carry them to the car and secure them safely with minimal restraint. Try not to handle them too much, and call ahead to let the vet know you're on your way.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam and run diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and a blood pressure reading, to rule out other potential causes and confirm the presence of a stroke. Advanced imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans may also be used to evaluate the brain. Treatment will focus on addressing your dog's symptoms, providing overall supportive care, and managing any underlying health conditions. This may include medication to reduce inflammation, prevent further blood clots, and manage underlying conditions, as well as rehabilitation and supportive care.

Home Care

If your dog is able to return home, there are several things you can do to support their recovery:

• Follow medication instructions: Administer any prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian.
• Provide a safe environment: Remove hazards that could cause falls or injuries, and use baby gates to restrict access to stairs or dangerous areas.
• Assist with mobility: Use a sling or harness to support your dog's weight and help with their balance. Gradually increase exercise and physical activity as advised by your veterinarian.
• Maintain a consistent routine: Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions to provide a stable and predictable environment for your dog.
• Monitor for changes: Keep a close eye on your dog's behaviour, appetite, and bathroom habits, reporting any significant changes to your veterinarian promptly.

How to prevent strokes in dogs

Strokes in dogs are serious and always require immediate veterinary care. While dogs can recover from strokes, the recovery depends on several factors, such as the severity of the stroke, underlying health conditions, and how quickly treatment is administered.

Strokes occur when a blood vessel becomes blocked or narrows, and blood and oxygen are no longer carried to the brain, causing brain cells to die. There are two types of strokes: hemorrhagic strokes, caused by a ruptured blood vessel, and ischemic strokes, caused by a blocked blood vessel. Underlying diseases such as Cushing's disease, cancer, heart disease, bleeding disorders, and hypothyroidism can increase the risk of strokes in dogs. Additionally, certain medications, like phenylpropanolamine (Proin), may also increase the risk.

Signs of a Stroke in Dogs

It can be challenging to know if your dog is having a stroke, as the signs can also indicate other health conditions. Some signs of a stroke in dogs include:

• Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• Head tilting or walking in circles
• Abnormal eye movements
• Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Confusion or disorientation
• Abrupt changes in behavior
• Nausea or vomiting due to balance issues

Preventative Measures

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent strokes in dogs, you can take steps to reduce the risk:

• Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular check-ups can help identify and manage any underlying health conditions that may increase the risk of strokes.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues that may increase the risk of strokes.
• Provide a healthy diet: A nutritious diet can help maintain overall health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
• Regular exercise: Exercise can help improve circulation and maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and other stroke risk factors.
• Monitor for any signs of a stroke: Early detection is crucial. If you notice any signs of a stroke, seek immediate veterinary care.

How to care for a dog post-stroke

Provide a Comfortable Resting Place

Make sure your dog has a warm spot where they will feel safe during recovery. Add extra padding, blankets, or cushions to make them more comfortable. It is important to keep them warm without overheating.

Reposition Your Dog Regularly

If your dog is unable to move freely, gently shift them to their side or stomach to prevent sores or body aches from developing. If your dog cannot move well enough to go outside, position them on an absorbent material like hay or wood chips.

Administer Medication as Instructed

Your dog may need prescription medications depending on the cause and results of their stroke. These could include sedatives, anti-nausea medication, anti-inflammatories, or anticonvulsants.

Take Your Dog to the Vet Regularly

More frequent preventive doctor visits are important after a stroke. Visiting the vet at least twice a year gives them the opportunity to screen for early indicators of another stroke, as well as other canine illnesses.

Determine the Cause of the Stroke

Work with your vet to understand the root cause of the stroke so you can develop a treatment plan to prevent recurrence. For example, if the stroke was caused by high blood pressure, your dog may need regular medication to lower it.

Increase Your Dog's Antioxidant Intake

Check their food for natural antioxidants like vitamins C and E, citric acid, and synthetic antioxidants like BHA and BHT. Antioxidants are essential to preventing the degeneration of healthy cells in the brain and other organs, reducing the risk of another stroke.

Feed Your Dog a Diet High in Omega Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are thought to help dogs recovering from a stroke. They are concentrated in the brain, where they create connections between its various parts, reduce inflammation, and increase oxygen flow through the body. Check with your vet before starting this course of treatment.

Frequently asked questions