Vertigo or Old Dog Vestibular Syndrome

confused looking dog

Vertigo is a syndrome in the elderly dog, which can be very frightening to the owners. The dog is suddenly afflicted with a balance problem, usually staggering, but occasionally unable to stand, and more rarely actually rolling over and over. There is a tilting of the head to one side and nystagmus, a rhythmic flicking movement of the eyes. Nausea and vomiting may also in present. It is not due to a stroke, as most people assume. It is thought to be due to an abnormal flow of fluid in the semi-circular canals of the inner ear. It is more common in older medium to large breeds of dogs. It is rarely seen in cats. Although the symptoms are alarming and often incapacitating to the dog, the prognosis is good. Improvement of clinical signs usually starts within 48-72 hours and most patients are normal within two to three weeks, even with no treatment. A mild head tilt may persist. Veterinarians should be consulted as the symptoms can also be caused by ear infections, foreign bodies in the ear, or tumors. The vestibular system may need treatment, with motion sickness drugs, or intravenous fluids if the nausea is severe or the dog is unable to eat or drink for a few days.

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Our Regular Schedule

Monday

7:30am

6:00pm

Tuesday

7:30am

6:00pm

Wednesday

7:30am

6:00pm

Thursday

7:30am

6:00pm

Friday

7:30am

6:00pm

Saturday

Closed

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Closed

Monday
7:30am 6:00pm
Tuesday
7:30am 6:00pm
Wednesday
7:30am 6:00pm
Thursday
7:30am 6:00pm
Friday
7:30am 6:00pm
Saturday
Closed Closed
Sunday
Closed Closed

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