Vestibular syndrome in dogs: symptoms and treatment

Marnie, Shih Tzu with vestibular syndrome.

A few weeks ago we told the story of Marnie, a small Shih Tzu affected by the vestibular syndrome, famous all over the world thanks to social networks. Today we want to talk about this disease, which seriously attacks the vestibular system of the dog, damaging its balance, its body position, and causing other symptoms. However, proper treatment does not have to decrease your quality of life.

The inner ear, the vestibulo-cochlear nerve (connects it to the central nervous system), the vestibular nucleus, the anterior and posterior middle tract, and the muscles of the eyeball are involved in the functioning of the vestibular system. The vestibular system connects all of this, making it possible for the animal to move properly. Therefore, when a dog is affected by this pathology, the first symptom it presents is lack of balance.

We will notice that he tilts his head to one side, tends to walk in circles, falls easily, suffers involuntary movements of the eyes, loses his appetite and feels nausea caused by disorientation. These symptoms can appear suddenly or appear little by little; in any case, it is convenient that let's take our pet to the vet as soon as we notice the slightest sign.

Vestibular syndrome may appear due to different reasons. Sometimes it has its origin in an otitis or a strong ear infection, so to end it, this area would have to be treated directly. Other times it comes from a problem in the Central Nervous System, which in turn can be derived from diseases such as toxoplasmosis or distemper. On the other hand, an internal bleeding or a tumor can also give rise to this problem. It is more common in older dogs; in these cases, it is called geriatric vestibular syndrome.

Treatment depends on the source of the problem. If it is an ear infection, it will be enough to administer some medications to eliminate it, which will also disappear the vestibular syndrome. In other cases, the disease itself cannot be treated, but it can alleviate symptoms. The medication must always be administered by a veterinarian, who must also frequently check the condition of the animal.

It is also important that we carry out some home care. For example, bringing food closer to the dog's mouth to make it easier for him to swallow, or moving away any furniture that may get in the way. In this way, the dog can lead a life free of pain and similar to that of other dogs.


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  1.   jose calderon said

    The pet is 2 months old and does not have any bacuna that can happen if I do it

  2.   Tania and maisson said

    Hello, my name is Tania and I have my friend of the soul sick, we are very affected by this, he is Maisson, he is 11 years old and last night he gave him this about the sondrome, I need a lot of help I don't know what to do I don't have the means at this time to start with I try so much since it is expensive, what can I do? I am very bad for me, my only child that I will be able to have is my everything.

    1.    Rachel Sanchez said

      Hello Tania. I'm very sorry about your situation, but the truth is that your puppy needs to be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Try to find the cheapest option, but you will need veterinary help. I hope that in the case of your dog it is a slight problem. Good luck. A hug.