Help, what do I do? My dog had a stroke last night, and while the vet says he’s okay for now, I’m still really worried about him. He's been acting a bit off since then, like he’s just not fully himself. This morning, he seemed confused, and he kept bumping into furniture that he usually avoids. I’m really nervous because I don’t know anyone personally who's gone through this with their dog. It's like he’s a little more wobbly and spaced out than usual. I feel so helpless — does anyone know if this is normal after a stroke? And are there things I should be doing to help him recover better or faster? Any advice or personal experiences would be super appreciated.
You're doing the right thing by asking. It's understandable to be concerned after such a scary event. In dogs, a stroke, or cerebrovascular accident, can happen when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted. This can be due to a variety of factors, including underlying heart disease, high blood pressure, or a blood clot.
Since your vet confirmed that your dog is stable, your focus should be on recovery and prevention. Make sure to provide a calm and stress-free environment for your dog. Keep his routine as regular as possible and watch for any changes in behavior, balance, or coordination, as these might be after-effects of the stroke.
In terms of care at home, ensure he has a comfortable spot where he can rest and avoid slippery floors that might add strain to his coordination. Encourage gentle exercise if your vet has advised it, but do not overdo it.
Keep an eye out for signs that might indicate a serious issue, like sudden seizures, extreme weakness, persistent inability to stand, or confusion. These warrant immediate veterinary attention.
I'd recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss any ongoing care or follow-up treatments that may be beneficial for your dog's specific condition.
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