Dog Stroke Symptoms
How to Spot and React to Dog Stroke Symptoms
Loving owners of canines young and old should be able to recognize dog stroke symptoms. Your beloved pet will have the best chance of getting through this experience if you know what to look for and how to react.
The most important thing to remember is to watch for abrupt changes in your dog’s behavior patterns. Study your pup’s day to day routines and pay special attention when things seem different and habits are altered. Some dog stroke symptoms may be similar to the normal behavior of your pet. In that case, watch for the frequency and severity of the symptom and when in doubt, visit your veterinarian.
As in humans, a stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. When this happens, the brain function deteriorates and often vision, balance and behavior problems are evident. And also just as in humans, if not treated quickly a stroke can be fatal to your dog.
Strokes can happen two ways in your dog. If the canine has a blocked artery, this will cut off the flow of blood and a stroke will occur in the brain. Also, if blood vessels inside or around the brain hemorrhage, blood pools and a stroke follows. Both types will present similar symptoms.
Dog stroke symptoms may at first seem like a quirky behavior or attitude in your pup. Watch for the symptoms to increase in severity and rapidly. Most symptoms will be marked and obvious within a few minutes to an hour. Also watch for more than one behavior occurring simultaneously.
The main symptoms evident are blindness, inability to control the bladder or bowel and lethargy or falling frequently. Before these obvious signs occur, you may have noticed a strange tilt to your dog’s head when called, a tendency to favor one side of his body over the other (while eating for example) and a loss of direction. If you notice the lesser symptoms, don’t wait for the severe signs. Get to your veterinarian right away.
Don’t jump to the conclusion that a stroke means the end for your pet. With early treatment from a professional, your dog can recover within a short time from even a severe stroke. To prevent the occurrence of canine strokes, be sure to bring your pet in for their annual checkup. Also keep a close eye on very young and very old pets, as they can develop a stroke fast. Keep your dog from spending too much time in extremely hot conditions as that is the prime factor in preventing heat stroke.
Be aware that certain dog breeds are more prone to stroke. Those with flat faces, such as pugs or bulldogs, have a greater chance of stroke. Also dog breeds with thicker coats of fur may be more prone to strokes. If your beloved pet belongs to a breed such as these, take extra care and watch closely for dog stroke symptoms.
If you suspect your dog has suffered a stroke, the veterinarian will use several testing methods to determine what has happened. MRIs, CT scans and spinal fluid analysis are all common methods of diagnosis in these cases. The most important factor is the speed of treatment. Upon first suspicion, you should see you veterinarian or visit an emergency animal hospital. This will ensure that your pet has prompt and professional treatment for the possibility of stroke.
Often dogs that have suffered a stroke are placed on special diets to lessen the chance of reoccurrence. Follow the doctor’s orders to give your pet the best quality of life possible.
As a dog owner, it is important to familiarize yourself with dog stroke symptoms and the treatments that follow. A watchful eye, correct knowledge and a prompt response will keep your pet safe and healthy.