Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

Vertigo in simpler terms means a feeling of dizziness or giddiness. It can also be defined as the feeling experienced by a person as if he is about to fall. Intense vertigo in dogs is known as vestibular disease or vestibular syndrome. Vertigo symptoms in dogs are very uncommon as vertigo is a rare dog health problem. But they are symptoms of some major disease and hence should not be ignored. Let us have a look at the causes of vertigo in dogs.

Causes of Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

The underlying or the exact cause of vertigo in dogs is unknown. But inner ear diseases can lead to surfacing of vertigo symptoms in dogs. The other causes of vertigo in dogs can be liver problems, indigestion or even undernourishment. If the dog faces a constant exposure to hazardous chemicals, he may suffer from vertigo. In rare cases, over exertion or extreme stress can also cause vertigo in dogs. Sometimes major reasons like neurological disorders, tumor or stroke can also result in vertigo symptoms in dogs. Let us now have a look at dog vertigo symptoms.

Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

Dog vertigo symptoms are more or less similar to vertigo symptoms in humans. They are mostly observed in older or aged dogs. Vertigo symptoms in dogs are categorized as mild and intense. The mild symptoms are quite minor and most of the times also go unnoticed. But one needs to look out for the intense vertigo symptoms in dogs as they surface only when the dog is suffering from some serious disease. The following are the signs shown by dogs with vertigo.

Mild Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

• Difficulty in walking
• Stumbling walk
• Tilting of head

Intense Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

• Complete inability to stand
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abnormal eye movement
• Inability to eat and drink
• Difficulty in excretion

Prevention of Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

As mentioned before, some of the causes of vertigo in dogs are minor and can be avoided. It is equally important for dogs to have a balanced diet and properly planned meal to avoid undernourishment or over eating. Dogs should also be kept in clean and hygienic environment; exposure to chemicals should be avoided. Similarly, regular visits to the vet for regular check ups is also very important. This is the best that one can do in order to prevent vertigo in dogs. Prevention of any type of dog illnesses is very important.

Treatment of Vertigo Symptoms in Dogs

Although vertigo in dogs is uncommon and rare, one should not ignore it. If your pet dog shows any symptoms of vertigo, you must take it immediately to the vet. The vet will ask you to note down the changes in the dog's behavior, food intake and the overall health. The vet may also take physical examination of the dog. Once the cause of vertigo is determined, the vet can prescribe medications or further treatment. If vertigo is caused due to stress, the vet may prescribe a sedative.

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• Dog Health
• Dog Care

One should remember that vertigo symptoms in dogs is a preliminary stage of a serious disorder. If your pet shows any of the aforementioned dog vertigo symptoms, do not ignore it and try to get it treated as soon as possible.