A stroke is defined as a blockage or rupture of the blood vessels of the brain, and if left untreated, a stroke can be fatal. Dogs suffer from strokes just like humans do, and they show symptoms that make a stroke apparent. Treating a stroke at once is the key the recovery, so veterinary attention should be sought at once.
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Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control
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Immediately after or even during a stroke, a dog may loose control over his bladder or bowels. This can lead to him defecating or urinating unexpectedly and without control. If your dog is house-trained, this may be a symptom of stroke.
Loss of Vision
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A stroke might cause a loss of vision. You may notice your dog has trouble navigating a home she has lived in her whole life, or she may start bumping into furniture. Loss of vision may be temporary or permanent.
Head Tilt
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A dog who has suffered a stroke might acquire a sudden head tilt, giving him a quizzical look. This may be caused by a lack of balance and a disruption in blood flow to the brain.
Circling
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A dog who has suffered a stroke may seem disoriented, often to the point of walking in circles. She may walk in tight circles, looking as if she is chasing her tail, or she may wander around in larger circles, unaware she has covered the same ground repeatedly.
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