Effective Post-Stroke Treatments And Medications For Dogs

Dogs can have strokes, although they are rare. Strokes in dogs are caused by a disruption to the blood flow to the brain due to blood clots or burst blood vessels. The symptoms of a stroke in dogs include abnormal eye movements, a sudden loss of balance, head tilting, walking in circles, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, and seizures.

If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, you should take them to the vet immediately. The vet will perform a neurological examination and may also carry out blood tests, x-rays, a heart ultrasound, or an ECG to determine the cause of the symptoms.

There is no specific treatment for strokes in dogs, but the vet will treat the underlying cause of the stroke. This may include medication to reduce inflammation, prevent further blood clots, and manage underlying conditions. The vet may also recommend physical therapy to help the dog regain strength and mobility.

Most dogs recover from strokes, although some may have long-term symptoms such as incoordination, head tilt, or blindness. It is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the dog during recovery, including a soft bed and easy access to food and water.

Medication

If the stroke is ischemic (caused by a blood clot), the vet may prescribe antiplatelet drugs such as Plavix or clopidogrel, which make the blood less likely to clot. Amlodipine, which is used to treat high blood pressure, may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of blood clots. Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) such as enalapril can also help to reduce blood pressure.

If the stroke is hemorrhagic (caused by a leaking blood vessel), medication can be used to relieve the pressure on the brain caused by the bleed.

In addition to these treatments, which target the underlying cause of the stroke, other medications may be given to manage the symptoms. For example, dogs with ataxia and disorientation may be given a sedative, while an antiemetic can be used to treat vomiting and stomach distress. Antibiotics may be given if an infection is present, and anticonvulsants can be used to control seizures and prevent future strokes.

It's important to administer any prescribed medications as directed by the veterinarian.

Hospitalisation

If the stroke was caused by hypertension, medication such as Amlodipine may be administered to control high blood pressure. Other medications that may be given include anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, sedatives, antiemetics, and anticonvulsants.

Home care

• Follow medication instructions: Administer prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian.
• Provide a safe environment: Remove any hazards that could cause falls or injuries. Use baby gates to restrict access to stairs or other dangerous areas.
• Assist with mobility: Help your dog move around by using a sling or harness to support their weight and help them with their balance. Gradually increase exercise and physical activity as advised by your veterinarian.
• Maintain a consistent routine: Dogs recovering from a stroke benefit from a stable and predictable routine. Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions.
• Monitor for changes: Keep a close eye on your dog’s behaviour, appetite, and bathroom habits. Report any significant changes to your veterinarian promptly.
• Provide a comfortable resting place: Make sure your pup has a warm spot where they'll feel safe during recovery. If they already have a regular spot, add some extra padding, blankets, or cushions to the area to make them more comfortable. It's especially important to keep them warm without overheating. Your veterinarian will be an excellent resource to help you provide optimal comfort for your pup once they return home.
• Reposition your dog regularly: If they are unable to move freely, your pup may develop sores or body aches when they rest too long in the same spot. Gently shift them to another side or onto their stomach periodically to avoid this. If your dog is unable to move well enough to go outside to dispose of waste, you may want to position them in hay, wood chips, or other disposable, absorbent materials.

Massage

If your dog is struggling with mobility, you can also use massage to help them regain functionality and learn to compensate for permanent physical symptoms.

Prevention

As with humans, strokes in dogs are caused by a disruption to the blood flow to the brain. This can be due to blood clots or burst blood vessels. While strokes are rare in dogs, they are more common in middle-aged to geriatric dogs, and certain breeds are more prone to strokes, including Greyhounds and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Strokes can be prevented by addressing any underlying conditions that increase the risk of strokes, including:

• Cushing's disease
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Thyroid issues
• Cancer
• Bleeding disorders
• Tick-borne diseases

If your dog is at risk of a stroke, your vet may prescribe medication to reduce the chances of a stroke occurring, such as:

• Clopidogrel, which makes platelets less sticky and reduces the risk of clots
• Amlodipine, a medication used to treat high blood pressure
• Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors, which can reduce blood pressure

Frequently asked questions