Caring for Dogs With Neurological Disorders
Determining Best Treatment Course for Canine Nervous System Diseases
Oct 6, 2009
The first step in dealing with canine neurological disorders is to get as much information as possible about likely causes of the problem. From there, dog owners should work closely with the veterinary health care team in deciding the best course of treatment for the individual animal.
Determining Whether Extensive Medical Tests are Appropriate for the Dog
A battery of tests may be necessary to determine the cause of the canine neurological disorder. In cases where cost or stress to the dog is an issue, however, frank discussions with the veterinarian are important in deciding which tests to run.
A trip to a veterinary neurologist is most appropriate in the case of younger dogs, as age-related degenerative disorders are unlikely. For some older animals, ruling out tumors can be helpful in determining the course of treatment. In cases where age-related neurological degeneration is likely a factor knowing the exact cause may be less important.
For example, canine vestibular syndrome and strokes have similar presentation and treatment options, many of which are based on individual symptoms. Putting the geriatric dog through a battery of tests by a veterinary neurologist may provide some answers as to the cause, but is unlikely to change the course of treatment.
In-home Care or Hospitalization for the Dog With Nervous System Problems?
This is one of the areas where individual dogs and owners play a big role in determining which is the better choice. Many dogs are stressed when away from their families and will actually rest and recuperate better in the home. Dogs with neurological disorders are often disoriented, thus having a degree of familiarity with both people and place may help.
But if the home is very active this may not be the case. Some breeds, herding dogs in particular, may be stressed at home by not being able to manage their environment. These dogs may recuperate better in the veterinary hospital. Another point to consider is the ability to provide nursing care. Dog owners may not be able to move large breeds when they are unable to walk on their own. And some people simply can’t deal with the messier aspects of supportive care.
The veterinary hospital may then be the best choice. From there it is important to discuss when and how often the owner should visit their dog. For many dogs regular visits encourage them to eat or move around. For others the departure of the owner may cause stress.
Medications or Supportive Care Only Neurological Disorders?
Once again, determining a course of treatment is very individualized in central nervous system diseases. Dogs suffering from disorientation and the inability to stand may be nauseous and reluctant to eat or drink. These dogs may benefit from anti-nausea medications. Mild sedative drugs may help nervous canines. If there is a question as to the cause of the neurological disorder, the use of steroids or other anti-inflammatory medications may not only help the canine patient but also give clues as to the underlying diagnosis.
In some cases the most important part of recovery from a neurological disorder may be rest and good nutrition. If no medication is prescribed that may be appropriate. Once again, dog owners should discuss with their veterinarian which, if any, medications are appropriate.
Because canine neurological disorders are often difficult to diagnose and treat, dog owners need to work closely with their veterinary health care team to ensure their pet is getting the best, most appropriate treatment.
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