Vestibular disease in dogs is related to the abnormalities in the body movement and balancing mechanism. Based on the underlying cause, it is categorized into two types, viz. central and peripheral vestibular disease. The former case develops due to disorders in the brain, whereas the latter is associated with abnormalities in the nerves that connect the inner ear and the cerebellum of the brain. In most cases, canine vestibular disease is peripheral in origin and recovers slowly.

Causes and Symptoms

Though this disease can affect middle-aged dogs, majority of the pet dogs attacked with this disease are older ones (12-13 years old). Hence, it is also referred to as old dog vestibular disease. As of date, there is no specific reason that are known to trigger canine vestibular syndrome. At times, signs of vestibular disease develop all in a sudden. Since, it occurs without any apparent medical reason, it is known as idiopathic vestibular disease in dogs. Recurrence is quite likely with this type of vestibular syndrome.

Canine vestibular syndrome symptoms include sudden loss of the body coordination and balance. Other noticeable symptoms of canine vestibular disease are head tilting in one side, repeated falling, stumbling and eyes rolling from one side to another. In some pets, the signs are so severe that they cannot stand properly without taking support. These signs and symptoms may last for a few days to about 3 weeks. At times, mild residual symptoms, like head tilt, tend to persist for several weeks.

Treatment

For diagnosis of vestibular disease, the veterinarian may conduct certain tests to rule out other dog health problems, that mimic loss of body coordination. Some of the diagnostic methods include neurological test, ear canal examination, blood test and urine analysis. Treatment for canine vestibular disease is advocated depending upon the test results, underlying cause and the manifested symptoms.

In order to combat dizziness and loss of appetite, the vet may prescribe medicines for motion sickness. If your pet dog shows signs of ear canal infections, antibiotics and other infection control medications are effective for treatment of vestibular disease in dogs. Appropriate dosage of thyroid supplements are administered, if hypothyroidism in dogs is the root cause for canine vestibular disease. This way, effective therapeutic treatment of the disease depends entirely on the medical cause.

For dog cancer related vestibular disease, surgical removal of the cancerous cells is imperative for recovering from vestibular disease. Apart from the treatment options, as a pet owner you need to spend quality time with your pet to soothe the discomfort symptoms of vestibular disease. Make sure that your pet is comfortable and take lots of rest and sleep. Feed dog food that are favorite for your dog. If necessary, calm down by supporting and lifting him lovingly.

Majority of the dogs recover from vestibular disease without severe complications. Nevertheless, if vestibular disease in dogs do not improve with suitable therapeutic intervention, then further medical help is necessary to check for conditions like inner ear infections, cancer of the cerebellum, head trauma and brain damage. With effective treatment options and proper dog care, your pet can recover successfully and lead a normal, cheerful life.