Question:
I have a 15-1/2-year-old female Lab-mix who experienced a vestibular episode last December. At this time, she has some of the symptoms again: head tilt, eye movement and an inability to walk or even stand for very long. I initially thought she had a stroke, but my vet diagnosed it over the phone when I mentioned the head tilt and she had me look for irregular eye movement (nystagmus) that I hadn't noticed at first. Prior to this diagnosis, I had even made an appointment to have her put down. Thankfully, my vet told me to give this condition the "tincture of time" and she will recover. It took about four days to see improvement, and by week's end, she was back to her old self. During this time, I hand-fed her baby food, per my vet's recommendation. She wouldn't eat the regular dog food. She had no ear infections, and her lab tests were normal, although she does have elevated liver tests. The medications she takes are daily fish oil, Traumeel for arthritis and Dasuquin. I was able to give her Dramamine non-drowsy for the motion sickness she was feeling. I was wondering if you could share any other information you have on this condition, such as how often it recurs and should that be of concern to us. I also wanted to let your readers know about this condition so they do not rush to put their pet down when, in time, the animal can return to normal.
V.S., Frederick, Md Aug 08, 2010
Answer:
It is good to remind dog owners of this sudden-onset loss of balance and frequent terror associated with this condition. It often occurs in older dogs and is no call for panic. Holding, reassuring, and giving a little Valerian orally and lavender essential oil (also good for car-panicking and vomiting pooches) will help. Put a couple of drops of oil on a bandana around the dog's neck. Some ginger in the dog's food (slowly work up to a teaspoon of grated fresh root for a 50-pound dog) will help alleviate nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties. This condition, called labyrinthitis, is an inflammatory condition afflicting the middle ear and may or may not be associated with infection tracking in from the external ear canal.
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