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Ask A Neurovet
By Lauren R. Talarico, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology/Neurosurgery) Photo Courtesy Dr. Lauren Talarico
Dear Dr. T,
Dr. Lauren Talarico
My young Labrador Riley has a history of ear infections. Recently, he developed a tilted head, wobbly gait and a facial droop. Do dogs suffer from vertigo similarly to people with severe ear infections? — Carol H, McLean, VA
Dear Carol & Riley, The canine equivalent of vertigo is referred to as vestibular disease. In a young, otherwise healthy dog with a history of recurrent ear infections, your dog likely suffers from peripheral vestibular disease, meaning the it is originating outside the brain itself. The most common cause of peripheral vestibular disease in dogs is inner ear infections. The nerves that control balance (vestibular nerve) and the facial muscles (facial nerve) run through the inner ear. Infections of the inner ear can irritate these nerves and lead to disorientation, balance deficits, head tilt and facial asymmetry. With proper treatment of the inner ear infection, your pup’s vestibular signs should resolve within several weeks.
Dear Dr. T, I have a Border Collie, Penelope that seizures every few weeks. A couple of hours before the actual seizure, she becomes excessively “clingy” to my family members. After the seizure, Penelope is typically very wobbly and sleeps for several hours. These behaviors are repeatable and occur before and after each seizure. Can you explain what is happening? — Rebecca C, Washington, DC
Do you have questions for the Neurovet? You can follow Dr. Lauren Talarico on Twitter @neurovet3 or contact her through her blog at www.theneurovet.com
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The Virginia–Maryland Dog
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