Ask Your Dog Question. Dog Experts Answer You ASAP.

(Not a Dog Question?)

Dog 8 yo, no health problems, wakes up unable to walk normal

Sent to Dog Experts May 20 01:11 AM

My dog woke up this am, acting weird. I took him to the vet, not poison, not vehicle hit. He is now walking in circles to the left, cannot walk in a straight line, some stumbling. Inner ear problem? Ears are not infected, vet checked those.
Dog is depressed, has some muscle weakness,usually sleeps on bed- does not jump up on bed. Ate dinner, vomited it. At vet, no temp, good capillary refill in gums, no other abnormailities", very clumsy. no prior health issues. Sleeping "deeper" than normal, no interest in the normal things- walking, car riding, food.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $5
Answer
May 20 1:15 AM (3 minutes and 33 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
 It sounds like he might be suffering from vestibular disease.  It's a disease of the inner ear that causes stroke-like symptoms.  The dog might drool, have a slackened appearance to the face, walk in circles, be weak on one side or immobile and hold the head at a funny angle.  You might not even notice a smell to the ear because this happens in the inner ear.

You need to see the vet tomorrow.  Most of these symptoms can be reversed if you seek care right away.

Let me know if you still have questions.

Picture
Tammy F. -- Dog Care Expert -- 99% Positive Feedback on 2270 Dog Accepts
15+ years -Dog care, Veterinary shelter medicine and infectious disease, Behavior assessment, Rescue
Think you can answer this question?
Login or Become an Expert

Related Answers

 

DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the JustAnswer service comes from those individuals, not from JustAnswer, and that JustAnswer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on JustAnswer are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. JustAnswer is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.

JustAnswer > Dog Breed Info and Canine Health Care