Question:
I have a precious male Westie who will be 13 years old very soon. About four weeks ago, he seemed to suddenly go blind and lose most of his hearing and sense of smell. He seemed fine in the morning, but that evening he was panicky and disoriented. I was unable to calm him down or comfort him.He now prefers to be outside most of the time; he sometimes seems anxious when he is inside, panting and pacing. Our veterinarian believes he could have had a stroke. His blood pressure tests have shown some hypertension, so he has been on medication for that.My concern is with his quality of life. I don't know what to do. I don't think he is suffering, but what about his panic/anxiety attacks? When is it time to let a beloved pet go? I don't have much hope that he will improve. What should I do?.
K.S., Houston, TX Oct 03, 2004
Answer:
Considering that your veterinarian found that your dog has high blood pressure, I agree that he probably had a stroke. I would also put him on an anticoagulant and prescribe a low dose of an anxiety-alleviating medication like Valium or Xanax.Dogs adapt amazingly well to gradual loss of their senses. But acute loss is another story. With patient and loving support to help him through this geriatric crisis -- provided you have the time and energy for it -- your dog may soon learn to adapt and enjoy a good quality of life before he dies, or before you and your veterinarian determine that it is time for him to be euthanized.
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