Understanding Strokes In Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

how can a stroke affect a dog

Dogs can have strokes, and while they are less common than in humans, they can be serious and always require immediate veterinary care. A stroke occurs when there is an interruption in blood flow to the brain, depriving brain cells of oxygen. This can happen due to a blocked or ruptured blood vessel. The signs of a stroke in dogs can include a loss of balance or coordination, abnormal eye movements, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty walking or standing, and confusion or disorientation. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, it is important to act quickly and seek immediate veterinary attention.

Characteristics Values
Stroke Type Ischemic (blocked blood vessel) or Hemorrhagic (ruptured blood vessel)
Symptoms Nausea or vomiting, wandering in circles, loss of body control, unusual eye movements, weakness on one side, misjudging steps, loss of balance, loss of consciousness, seizures, acute blindness, head tilt, falling/listing to one side, loss of bladder or bowel control, confusion, disorientation, abrupt changes in behaviour, loss of appetite
Causes Cushing's disease, high doses of steroids, blood clots, tumour cells, bacteria, parasites, trauma, blood clotting disorders, hypothyroidism, high blood pressure, medications
Treatment Medication, rehabilitation, supportive care, blood thinners, high blood pressure medication, steroids, mannitol, hypertonic saline, intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, physical therapy

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How to identify the signs of a stroke in dogs

Strokes in dogs can be challenging to identify as the signs can also indicate other health conditions. However, it is important to be aware of the signs and act quickly as dogs require immediate veterinary treatment after a stroke.

Signs of a Stroke in Dogs

  • Sudden loss of balance or coordination
  • Head tilting or compulsively 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 behaviour
  • Nausea or vomiting due to balance issues
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Rapid onset of symptoms

What to Do if You Suspect Your Dog is Having a Stroke

If you think your dog is having a stroke, it is important to act quickly. Safely transport your dog to the vet or emergency hospital, putting smaller dogs in a carrier and larger dogs carefully in the car. Call your vet to let them know you are on your way. It may be helpful to note the timeline of events, including what your dog was doing before the symptoms, the symptoms you noticed, and whether the symptoms continued to develop or worsen. This information can help your vet diagnose the cause of your dog's symptoms.

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What to do if you think your dog is having a stroke

Strokes in dogs can be scary, but recognising the signs and acting quickly can significantly improve their chances of recovery. Here's what to do if you think your dog is having a stroke:

Recognise the Signs

Firstly, it's important to be able to recognise the signs of a stroke in dogs. Dogs cannot tell us when they feel dizzy or nauseous, so we need to pay attention to their behaviour. Some common 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 behaviour
  • Seizures
  • Extreme tiredness or loss of consciousness

Act Quickly

If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to act quickly. Strokes require immediate veterinary attention, so contact your veterinarian right away. If your regular vet is unavailable, take your dog to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital.

Provide Information

When you take your dog to the vet, it's helpful to provide as much information as possible. Try to note down the timeline of events, including what your dog was doing before the symptoms started, the symptoms you noticed, and whether the symptoms continued to develop or worsen. This information can help your veterinarian diagnose the cause of your dog's symptoms.

Safe Transportation

When transporting your dog to the vet, ensure you do so safely. For smaller dogs, use a carrier. For larger dogs, carefully carry them to the car and secure them safely with minimal restraint. Try not to over-handle your dog, and call ahead to let the vet know you're on your way.

Follow Veterinary Instructions

Once your dog has been diagnosed and treated, follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully. This may include administering prescribed medications, providing a safe and comfortable environment for your dog, assisting with their mobility, maintaining a consistent routine, and monitoring their behaviour, appetite, and bathroom habits.

Remember, early recognition and prompt veterinary care are crucial in improving your dog's chances of recovery from a stroke. Don't delay—get your dog the help they need as quickly as possible.

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How are strokes in dogs diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosing a stroke in dogs is to take them to the vet for immediate attention. The vet will then perform a physical examination, including an examination of the dog's heart functions to rule out a cardiac problem that can cause fainting. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-rays, and possibly a cardiac ultrasound. If the heart is normal, the brain can be examined using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or a computerised tomography (CT) scan.

Further testing can be carried out to look for underlying diseases that could have caused a stroke, such as hormone testing, bloodwork, urinalysis, and a blood-pressure reading. Bloodwork can include blood clotting analysis and looking for evidence of infectious disease, while cerebrospinal fluid may also be analysed.

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What are the treatment options for dogs post-stroke?

The treatment options for dogs post-stroke are centred on addressing the dog's symptoms, providing overall supportive care, and managing any underlying health conditions. The treatment approach focuses on managing the underlying cause, minimising further damage, and supporting the dog's recovery.

Medication

Depending on the cause and severity of the stroke, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to reduce inflammation, prevent further blood clots, and/or manage underlying conditions. For instance, if a clot caused the stroke, your vet may prescribe blood thinners. Additionally, high blood pressure medications can be used for strokes caused by hypertension.

Rehabilitation

Physical therapy, including exercises and range-of-motion activities, can help dogs regain strength and mobility. Hydrotherapy is an excellent way to build up your dog's strength without overexerting them. Passive range-of-motion exercises are also beneficial and will not cause discomfort for your dog.

Supportive Care

Dogs may require hospitalization for monitoring, intravenous fluids, and assistance with feeding and elimination. Supportive care also includes providing good nutrition and helping manage urination and defecation. Supplemental oxygen therapy is another important aspect of treatment, maximising oxygen delivery to damaged tissues and promoting healing.

Home Care

There are several things pet owners can do at home to support their dog's recovery. These include following medication instructions, providing a safe environment, assisting with mobility, maintaining a consistent routine, and monitoring for changes in behaviour, appetite, and bathroom habits.

Fainting: A Warning Sign of Stroke?

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How to care for a dog recovering from a stroke

Immediate Actions

If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, it is important to act quickly and seek immediate veterinary care. Strokes in dogs require prompt attention and can be life-threatening. Stay with your dog, keep them calm, and try to get them to the vet as soon as possible. This will increase their chances of a full recovery.

Post-Stroke Care at the Vet

Depending on the severity of the stroke and your dog's overall health, your vet may recommend hospitalization for several days to monitor their condition and provide supportive care. This may include intravenous fluids, assistance with feeding and elimination, and medication to reduce inflammation, prevent blood clots, and manage underlying conditions.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

When your dog returns home, ensure they have a warm, comfortable, and safe space to rest and recover. Add extra padding, blankets, or cushions to their usual spot to enhance their comfort. It is crucial to keep them warm without overheating.

Medication and Exercise

Administer any prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian. Gradually introduce physical activity, such as short walks, and increase the intensity and duration as advised by your vet. You can also perform passive range-of-motion exercises to improve your dog's flexibility and mobility.

Diet and Nutrition

Provide your dog with a nutritious diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as these are concentrated in the brain and can aid in recovery. Consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes.

Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your dog's progress and screen for early indicators of potential future strokes. More frequent visits, such as twice a year, can help identify underlying health issues that may contribute to strokes.

Signs of a Stroke

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial. These may include rapid eye movement, loss of balance, vomiting, abnormal eye positioning, loss of consciousness, and rapid onset of symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, don't delay in seeking veterinary care.

Support and Patience

Remember that recovery takes time, and your dog may experience discouragement and depression during this period. Provide ample praise and support, and be patient with their progress. With your dedication and the guidance of your veterinarian, your dog has a good chance of regaining their health and happiness.

Frequently asked questions

The signs of a stroke in dogs can be similar to those in humans, but without the slurred speech or loss of memory. Symptoms include:

- Loss of balance or coordination

- Head tilting or walking in circles

- Abnormal eye movements

- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body

- Loss of bladder or bowel control

- Confusion or disorientation

- Abrupt changes in behaviour

If you think your dog is having a stroke, you should seek immediate veterinary care. Make a note of what your dog was doing before the symptoms, the symptoms you noticed, and whether they continued to worsen, as this will help your vet diagnose the issue.

Your vet will perform a physical examination of your dog and review their medical history. They may also carry out diagnostic tests such as blood pressure checks, blood tests, and advanced imaging (an MRI or CT scan).

Treatment for strokes in dogs focuses on managing the underlying cause, minimising further damage, and supporting your dog's recovery. This may include medication, rehabilitation, and supportive care.

The prognosis for dogs that have suffered a stroke varies depending on the severity of the stroke, the underlying cause, and how quickly treatment is administered. Some dogs may experience a full recovery, while others may have permanent changes such as loss of mobility.

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