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• Part 1 of 2: Recognizing a stroke in dogs
• Part 2 of 2: Medical care for your dog
• Tips

Having to watch your dog suffer from any illness or discomfort can be very distressing to an owner. The signs of a stroke in a dog can be very frightening, but it is important to remember that the effect of this condition in dogs is not as severe as it is in humans. Learn to recognize the signs of stroke in dogs so that you can respond appropriately if it happens. If you think your dog is having a stroke, get immediate help from a veterinarian and follow all treatment instructions carefully.

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Part 1 of 2: Recognizing a stroke in dogs

1. Watch for the symptoms of stroke in dogs. Stroke usually occurs in dogs when the veins in the brain tear (hemorrhagic stroke) or become blocked (ischemic stroke). The symptoms of the stroke can appear very suddenly and can be different from the signs of stroke in humans. Your dog may have had a stroke if he:
   • Runs in circles for no apparent reason.
   • Tilt his head to one side.
   • Going in the wrong direction when you call him.
   • Has trouble keeping balance, standing and / or walking.
   • Exhibits extreme lethargy.
   • Has sudden problems with bladder and bowel control.
   • Shows signs of reduced vision.
   • Suddenly collapses.
   • It is also possible for your dog's eyes to move back and forth quickly, as if following an object (nystagmus). Stroke is just one possible cause of nystagmus, but it's always a good idea to have this symptom evaluated by a vet.
2. Evaluate the risk of stroke. You can help the vet diagnose your dog's stroke and any underlying problems by letting him know if your dog is in the stroke risk group. Stroke is more common in older dogs and dogs that have or have had the following condition:
   • Head injury or trauma.
   • Heart disease.
   • Diabetes.
   • Kidney disease.
   • Endocrine disorders, such as thyroid disease or Cushing's disease.
   • Brain tumors
   • Exposure to certain toxins.
   • Certain tick-borne parasites or diseases such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
3. Take your dog to the vet for an examination. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, take him to the vet right away. Tell the vet what symptoms the dog is showing and what his health history is. In addition to examination and observation, the vet may order tests such as an MRI, CT or X-ray scan to confirm or rule out a stroke.
   • The vet may also perform other tests, such as an epidural, to test for other conditions and illnesses with similar symptoms.
   • The vet will look for bleeding, clots, inflammation, or masses in the brain.
   • Treat any stroke symptoms like a medical emergency. Early medical intervention can help ensure the best outcome for your dog.

Part 2 of 2: Medical care for your dog

1. Start treating the underlying cause of the stroke. If an examination shows that your dog had a stroke, the vet will discuss the causes of this with you. There are no specific treatments for stroke other than treating the underlying causes of the condition.
   • Ischemic stroke is associated with conditions such as diabetes, thyroid malfunction, heart or kidney disease, and hypertension. A hemorrhagic stroke is often caused by a blood clot, hypertension, rat poison, and affected veins.
   • Other causes of stroke are brain tumors or head trauma. Once a stroke has been confirmed and the underlying cause has been identified, the vet can develop a treatment plan.
2. Follow the vet's instructions regarding home care. Most cases of a stroke in a dog can be treated at home once the vet has made the diagnosis. The vet can prescribe certain medications and will explain how to care for your dog and monitor his condition at home. Your dog may be disoriented and have trouble walking. Grooming your dog at home may include:
   • Ensure your dog has a comfortable bed.
   • Carrying your dog outside so he can relieve himself.
   • Place food and water within reach of your dog's bed.
   • Giving your dog the medication prescribed by the vet.
   • You can also give your dog a daily massage to improve its mobility. Use your palm to massage his entire body.
3. Have your dog admitted if the vet recommends it. For severe strokes or strokes caused by trauma, the vet may recommend that the dog be admitted for treatment and observation. If trauma is the cause of the stroke, the first step is to reduce swelling in the brain and hydrate the dog. Your dog will then be given fluids intravenously so that it stays hydrated.
   • If the stroke was caused by hypertension, medications such as Amlodipine can be used to control high blood pressure.
   • Other medications may also be given, including an anti-inflammatory such as an NSAID if there is obvious swelling, antibiotics for an infection, a sedative for ataxia and disorientation, an antiemetic for vomiting and stomach problems, and an antiepileptic for seizures. to suppress.
   • Your dog will be placed on a soft spot in a comfortable position during the treatment so that its head is no lower than the rest of the body. This position helps to stimulate proper blood flow.
4. Make sure the dog is constantly monitored during recovery. Grooming him at home requires constant observation of your pet during his recovery. You may need to enlist the help of others, such as asking the neighbor to keep an eye on your dog if you have to go yourself. You can also hire a pet sitter to take care of your dog while you are away.
   • Consider taking long lunch breaks to go home for the dog if you can. You could also ask if your dog can go to work.
5. Give your dog any medication prescribed by the vet. Medication can be prescribed to help your dog recover from his stroke and prevent future strokes. Dogs with symptoms of ataxia and disorientation may be given a sedative. Other medications can include:
   • An anti-emetic against vomiting.
   • An anti-inflammatory agent for swelling.
   • Antibiotics in case of infection.
   • Anti-epileptic to prevent seizures and future strokes.
   • Anti-platelet agent, similar to Plavix, an anti-coagulant for long-term treatment to prevent blood clots.
   • Medication that increases the supply of oxygenated blood to the brain, such as propentophylline (Vivitonin).
6. Discuss your dog's prospects with the vet. How quickly your dog recovers depends on several factors, including the severity of the stroke and the underlying causes. Severe strokes can cause permanent disabilities. However, with the right treatment, you can maximize your dog's quality of life and help him adapt to issues such as poor balance.
   • The vet may recommend physical therapy to help your dog regain mobility and manage permanent physical symptoms.

Tips

• The symptoms of a stroke in a dog can resemble those of other conditions, such as Geriatric Vestibular Syndrome. Whatever the cause, the symptoms should always be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.