Canine Stroke and Dyssynergia

Canine stroke and dyssynergia are two separate conditions, although they might be symptomatic in a dog at the same time. Both illnesses can be quite serious, so if you suspect your dog to be suffering from either it is recommended to seek veterinary help. However, knowing the basics can keep you informed and aware as you monitor your dog's health on a daily basis.

  1. Canine Stroke

    • Canine stroke is rare, but might occur as a result of a brain hemorrhage. Consequently, the dog might experience brain damage but does not have paralyses, unlike some human stroke sufferers. A dog with a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, tumors, parasites, kidney or liver disease is more prone to having a stroke. If the dog has had a stroke, it might have a head tilt, confusion, loss of balance, lethargy or loss of bowel control. Loss of sight and eating out of only one side of its bowl might also been symptoms to look out for.

    Diagnosis and Treatment of Canine Stroke

    • A veterinary specialist will be able to diagnose if the canine has had a stroke. He will physically examine the dog and, perform blood and urine tests. If the tests prove inconclusive a magnetic resonance scan (MRI) or computed tomography scan (CT) might be necessary to assess the dog's brain activity. There is no remedy for any brain damage in the dog, but in most cases the dog regains its motor neuron skills quickly and the stroke will not affect its quality of life. Unlike humans the dog is still able to move and live an active lifestyle.

    Reflex Dyssynergy

    • Reflex dyssynergy is a disorder which affects the control of a dog's bladder. It is also known as detrusor-urethral dyssynergia. Essentially, the normal reflexes of the bladder are disturbed, causing the dog to pass urine uncontrollably, or indeed not pass it at all. In the latter case, the canine's sphincter muscles cannot relax to allow the passage of urine. Medication for this illness can cause depression and lethargy in the dog, so it might be upsetting for the pet owner to cope with.

    Treatment

    • A number of treatments are available to help dogs with reflex dyssynergy; although there is not a quick-fix or complete cure. Firstly, the dog can be prescribed phenoxybenzamine, a somatic muscle relaxant such as diazepam, and occasionally bethanechol to improve the condition. Or, an urinary catheter is inserted into the dog's bladder so that liquid can be regularly drained away. The catheter also helps stop detrusor atony which is when the bladder "thinks" it is permanently full so leaks. A vet might also recommend therapeutic remedy for the canine.