Also know as idiopathic cerebellitis, Shaker syndrome It is a disorder that causes inflammation of the dog's brain, right in the area responsible for coordination and muscle movements. This causes a strong general tremor in the animal's body. The cause that generates this disease has not yet been identified to this day.
Although the pathogen that causes this problem is unknown, it is associated with some type of disorder related to the central nervous system. It affects males and females equally, as well as small and large breeds, of any age. However, experts believe that white-coated dogs seem to be predisposed to suffer from this syndrome.
It is characterized by the appearance of a strong shaking throughout the body, a symptom also present in other pathologies. In this case, these involuntary movements occur very frequently and do not stop easily. Given this signal, we must take our dog to the vet as soon as possible, to examine it and determine what it is due to.
To carry out this diagnosis, many testssuch as tests of blood, urine, electrolyte levels, and a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, we must provide the complete health history of our pet. Through these studies, the expert is ruling out the most common causes of these tremors until identifying Shaker Syndrome.
Treatment depends on the state of the disease. It is usually based on corticosteroid administration that deflate the brain tissues of the animal, making it recover in a few days. However, this treatment suppresses some functions of the immune system, which can lead to multiple side effects. Some dogs make a full recovery, while others have to take medication for life. In more serious cases a period of hospitalization is necessary.
Likewise, it is essential to regular checks by the veterinarian, carrying out a monthly follow-up (at least) until the corticosteroid treatment is discontinued.