Help, I'm really freaking out about my dog. I'm not sure if anyone has gone through this, but I think my sweet golden retriever, Max, may have had a stroke. Earlier today, I noticed he was acting really strange. He suddenly became very disoriented and started walking in circles, almost like he didn't know where he was. Then, his head started tilting to the side, and he stumbled when trying to move. Watching this happen just broke my heart, and I'm terrified of what it might mean. We rushed him to the vet, and they mentioned something about the possibility of a stroke, but they're running more tests to be sure. Has anyone experienced anything like this with their dog? I feel so helpless, and I'm scared I might lose him. Any advice or similar stories would help me feel a little less alone right now. Thanks so much.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It's understandably worrisome to think your dog might have had a stroke. In dogs, what appears to be a stroke could actually be a condition called vestibular disease, which affects their balance and coordination. Common symptoms include head-tilting, loss of balance, circling, and even vomiting.
Strokes in dogs are relatively rare but can happen due to a blockage or bleeding in the brain. Signs include sudden weakness, disorientation, loss of vision, or seizures.
For at-home care, try to keep your dog comfortable and safe. Ensure they have a quiet, cozy area to rest, and if they seem dizzy, help them move cautiously to avoid injury. Keep water and food nearby to minimize movement.
Watch for any worsening symptoms like persistent disorientation, inability to stand, vomiting, or signs of distress. These indicate that it might be something more serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
I recommend booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet so we can dive deeper into what's going on and guide you on the next steps. Your dog's health and comfort are our top priorities, and we're here to help!
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