Sudden balance problems are a serious issue in dogs and can indicate poisoning, a stroke or even vestibular syndrome. While most common in older dogs, these problems can strike at any age. It's important to recognize staggering and accompanying symptoms, possible causes and an appropriate course of action.
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Description
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When a dog staggers around suddenly in a reckless manner, something is seriously wrong. Because the range of possibilities is so wide, it's important to note accompanying symptoms. Things to look for include head tilting, vomiting, disorientation, panting, drooling and muscle spasms. Depending on the severity of the condition, immediate action on the part of the pet owner may be vital.
Symptoms
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The most obvious symptom is staggering around or falling. If this persists, the dog may fall down, attempt to regain balance, and fall again. Staggering is sometimes accompanied by disorientation, which presents as strange, nonsensical eye and body movements and general confusion. The dog may hack or vomit as well. A head tilt is sometimes observed, and drooling or spasms may occur. All symptoms are of greater significance in otherwise healthy animals. Arthritis is progressive rather than sudden condition.
Causes
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The most immediate concern is poisoning. If poison is suspected, check the dog's immediate surroundings for likely candidates and contact a vet and/or poison control to determine the next course of action. A poisoned dog often attempts to vomit on his own. If the dog's head tilts, a stroke or vestibular syndrome are both likely candidates. A stroke results from a block artery to the brain, vestibular syndrome results from inflammation of nerves in the inner ear that control balance. Vestibular syndrome is sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
Treatment
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If poison is suspected, it may be required to induce vomiting in the dog. As a general rule, if the substance is non-corrosive, induce vomiting. If it's corrosive, give oil orally. A stroke must be diagnosed by a vet, who will usually run blood and urine tests before ordering an MRI or CT to rule out other possibilities. Strokes tend to be less debilitating in dogs than humans, although little can be done in terms of treatment. There is no treatment for vestibular syndrome, although most dogs make a full recovery in a matter of weeks. Some vets may prescribe antibiotics if an accompanying infection is suspected. Owners should do their best to make the dog feel comfortable in this case.
Warning
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When a dog begins to exhibit sudden balance problems, it's important to assess the situation as quickly as possible. If it's a result of poisoning, the owner has little time to act and may administer the wrong treatment if the actual toxin is different from the suspected toxin. It's vital to contact a vet or poison control center as a soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis.
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