Anna Werrett
Dogs can have strokes, and they are scary. Strokes occur when there is a disruption to the blood flow to the brain, usually due to a blood clot or burst blood vessel. The symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on what part of the brain is affected, but they often come on suddenly and can be severe.
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, you should take them to the vet immediately. Quick treatment is vital, and your vet will be able to diagnose and treat the stroke.
After a stroke, your dog will need lots of care and attention. You should provide them with a comfortable resting place and make sure they have easy access to food and water. You may also need to reposition them regularly to prevent sores. Your vet will be able to advise you on any medication your dog needs and any exercises that can help their recovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Abnormal eye movements, loss of balance, tilting of the head, walking in circles, seizures, lethargy, loss of bladder control, loss of consciousness, abnormal mental state, uncoordinated movements, loss of appetite, vomiting, heavy breathing, disorientation, confusion, aggression, loss of bowel control, inability to stand, leaning to one side, dry heaving, abnormal body position, rapid breathing, abnormal eye position, loss of coordination, loss of vision, loss of hearing, loss of smell, loss of touch, loss of taste |
| Treatment | Elevate the dog's head, take the dog to the vet, offer water, provide a comfortable resting place, reposition the dog regularly, administer medications, increase the dog's antioxidant intake, feed the dog a diet high in omega fatty acids, hydrotherapy, strength training, passive range-of-motion exercises, massage, physiotherapy, blood thinners, high blood pressure medication, oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, medication to control seizures or decrease intracranial pressure, treatments that target the underlying cause |
What You'll Learn
Help your dog relax by talking to them in a soft voice
It is important to remain calm and talk to your dog in a soft and gentle voice. This will help your dog relax and feel at ease. You can also pet your dog and offer it water.
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Offer your dog water but only allow them to drink for a few seconds at a time
It is important to keep your dog hydrated after a stroke, but you must be careful not to let them drink too much at once. Offer your dog water, but only allow them to drink for a few seconds at a time. You may need to remove the water bowl from them. Monitor your dog's behaviour and react accordingly. If you are unsure how much water to offer, call your vet or local emergency animal hospital.
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Elevate your dog's head to help the blood flow away from their brain
If your dog has had a stroke, it is important to keep their head elevated to help the blood flow away from their brain. This will ensure that there is less pressure on their brain, which can help prevent further damage. You can do this by placing them on a comfortable surface, such as a bed or couch, with their head propped up on a pillow or blanket. You can also try to gently move their head upwards if they are sitting or standing. It is crucial to keep them calm and comfortable during this time.
Additionally, here are some other ways to care for your dog after a stroke:
- Stay with your dog and talk to them in a soft voice to help them relax.
- Offer them small amounts of water, as they may be thirsty but make sure they don't drink too much at once.
- Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible for professional care and further guidance.
- Provide a warm and comfortable resting place for them, such as a soft bed or blanket.
- Regularly reposition your dog to prevent sores or body aches if they are unable to move freely.
- Administer any medications prescribed by the vet and follow their instructions carefully.
- Monitor their food intake, as stroke can cause nausea and loss of appetite.
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Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, it is important to get them to the vet as soon as possible. A stroke occurs when there is a disruption to the blood flow to the brain. This can be caused by a blood clot or a bleed.
Some of the symptoms of a stroke in dogs include:
- Loss of balance
- Loss of bladder control
- Inability to breathe
- Extreme tiredness
- Abnormal eye movements
- Loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary advice immediately. The vet will be able to evaluate your dog and provide the necessary treatment. This may include intravenous fluids, medication, and supportive care.
It is important to remember that strokes are a medical emergency and early treatment can increase the chances of a full recovery. Therefore, if you suspect your dog is having a stroke, do not delay in seeking veterinary care.
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Provide a comfortable resting place for your dog
Providing a comfortable resting place for your dog is essential to their recovery after a stroke. Here are some tips to create a soothing environment:
- Make sure your dog feels safe and warm: Dogs recovering from a stroke can experience confusion and stress. It is important to provide them with a warm and secure spot where they can feel safe. If your dog already has a favourite resting place, make it even more comfortable by adding extra padding, blankets, or cushions.
- Keep them warm without overheating: It is crucial to maintain a comfortable temperature for your dog, ensuring they do not get too hot or too cold. Consult your veterinarian for advice on optimising your dog's comfort at home.
- Provide a sense of familiarity: Using their regular bed or a familiar area can help your dog feel more at ease during their recovery. This sense of familiarity can aid in reducing their stress levels and provide a sense of security.
- Minimise noise and distractions: Create a quiet and peaceful environment for your dog to rest. Keep the area free from loud noises or distractions that may cause them stress or anxiety.
- Ensure easy access: If your dog is experiencing mobility issues, make sure their resting place is easily accessible to them. Remove any obstacles that may hinder their movement and consider using a bed or cushion that is low to the ground, making it easier for them to get in and out.
- Include their favourite items: Surround your dog with their favourite toys, blankets, or other items that may provide them with comfort and a sense of familiarity. This can help reduce their anxiety and make them feel more at home.
- Consider their specific needs: Depending on your dog's condition and the effects of the stroke, they may have unique requirements. For example, if they are unable to move freely, you may need to reposition them regularly to prevent sores or body aches. Consult your veterinarian for specific advice based on your dog's individual needs.
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Frequently asked questions
The symptoms of a stroke in dogs include abnormal eye movements, a sudden loss of balance, tilting of the head, walking in circles, and seizures.
If you think your dog is having a stroke, you should take them to the vet immediately.
To help your dog recover from a stroke, you should follow your vet's advice and provide a comfortable resting place for them. You may also need to reposition your dog regularly to prevent sores and body aches.
Strokes in dogs can be caused by a blood clot or bleeding in the brain. Underlying conditions such as diabetes, Cushing's disease, kidney disease, and heart disease can also make dogs more likely to have a stroke.
Yes, dogs can recover from strokes, but the recovery time can vary from a few weeks to a few months. Some dogs may never fully recover and may experience long-term symptoms such as incoordination, head tilt, or blindness.
