Advances in veterinary medicine have resulted in dogs living longer, healthier lives. Like people, regular medical check-ups and early disease detection are crucial to longevity and helping to prevent diseases. Additionally, dogs and their people can suffer many similar illness types, including a stroke or a cerebral vascular accident (CVA). Strokes are a common occurrence in people; it is estimated that every 4 minutes, a human dies from this condition. Fortunately, strokes occur less frequently in dogs than people; however, dog owners must be aware of this potential occurrence in their four-legged companions to appropriately respond and care for their pup.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when there is a sudden loss of blood flow to part of the brain. During a stroke, oxygen can not reach a portion of the brain, which can result in brain cell death and neurologic abnormalities. A stroke can occur as a sudden onset, or it may progress over 24–72 hours. The two main types of strokes in dogs include:
- Blood vessel obstruction (e.g., ischemic stroke) –– This type of stroke is more common in dogs. Blood vessel obstruction, or blockages, can occur for various reasons, including blood clots, tumors, inflammation, or an infection.
- Brain bleed (e.g., hemorrhagic stroke) –– This stroke type can occur from a sudden rupture or breakage of a blood vessel that bleeds into the surrounding brain. Clotting disorders can also result in a hemorrhagic stroke.
What are the causes of strokes in dogs?
Strokes can affect any age, breed, or sex; however, middle-aged and older dogs have increased risk. Some breeds also have an increased risk, including Cavalier King Charles spaniels, greyhounds, miniature schnauzers, and brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds, like pugs, which are genetically more prone to strokes. Other causes may include taking high doses of steroids or dogs with an underlying disease, including:
- Kidney disease
- Hormonal disease (i.e., Cushing’s syndrome, hypothyroidism)
- Bleeding or clotting disorders
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Head trauma
Signs of a stroke in dogs
Strokes can range from mild to severe in dogs. Massive strokes, which require immediate veterinary care, are more common in dogs and may be confused with a condition called syncope or fainting spells. Unlike people, recognizing signs of a mild stroke can be challenging in pets because they may experience memory loss, mild dizziness, or loss of eyesight in one eye. Also, dogs' stroke signs may mimic other diseases, including ear infections or vestibular disease. Bring your dog for immediate veterinary care if you notice any of the following stroke signs:
- Abnormal behavior or personality change
- Seizures
- Abnormal eye movements (i.e., side-to-side movement of pupils (nystagmus)
- Abnormal eye position (i.e., crossed eyes)
- Head tilt
- Difficulty walking or uncoordinated gait
- Sudden loss of balance
- Falling to one side
- Loss of consciousness
- Sudden blindness
- Inappropriate urination or defecation (i.e., house or bed soiling)
Diagnosis of a stroke in dogs
Diagnosis of a stroke can be challenging and often requires multiple diagnostic steps because strokes can mimic various diseases and be associated with a variety of underlying illnesses. Immediate veterinary care is paramount to ensure the best chance of recovery and survival following a stroke. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination. Strokes are often confused for syncope or fainting spells due to a lack of systemic blood flow caused by heart disease. Initial diagnostic testing will usually involve first ruling out heart disease, which may include:
- Chest x-rays to examine the heart size and shape
- Electrocardiograph (EKG) to check heart rhythm and rate
- Echocardiogram (i.e., heart ultrasound) to evaluate blood flow and heart function
Other diagnostic tests that may be recommended to rule out underlying stroke causes and check overall health include:
- Blood work to check overall organ health
- Hormonal testing
- Blood clotting tests
- Advanced imaging (i.e., MRI, CT) to confirm the presence of a stroke
Depending on disease severity and signs, your veterinarian may recommend a referral to a veterinary specialist, including an internist, cardiologist, or neurologist, for more in-depth diagnostics and treatment.
Stroke treatment and prognosis in dogs
Dogs who suffer a stroke will likely require an extended hospital stay for monitoring and supportive care, including intravenous fluid (IV) therapy and oxygen therapy. Other initial treatments will depend on the underlying cause and may include:
- Feeding tubes
- Blood pressure medications
- Blood thinners
- Medications to decrease brain swelling
- Heart medications
- Hormone regulation medications
During stroke recovery, affected dogs will require frequent veterinary check-ups, close monitoring, and support, which may include life-long medications to treat underlying illnesses. Other long-term treatments may include physical therapy, including a range of motion exercises, to regain proper movement. Maintaining a consistent routine at home, including a regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedule, is also beneficial for dogs during and following their recovery. Hazards should also be removed from the home to prevent an injury or fall and to restrict your dog’s access to potentially dangerous areas, such as stairs. The prognosis depends on stroke severity and the underlying cause, and some dogs who recover from a stroke may suffer from permanent changes in their behavior.
Preventing strokes in dogs
Strokes in dogs are not always preventable because they may occur due to a genetic abnormality. However, there are a variety of preventive measures that can be implemented to ensure your dog remains healthy through all life stages while decreasing stroke risk factors, including:
- Bringing your dog for annual or more frequent veterinary examinations
- Properly managing underlying health issues, like diabetes or thyroid disease
- Ensuring your dog remains a healthy weight because obesity can increase the risk for underlying diseases, including heart disease and cancer
- Feeding your dog an AAFCO-approved complete and balanced diet to ensure they are receiving required nutrients for proper organ function
- Supporting your dog’s immune and heart health, especially as they age, with veterinary-approved supplements, like Native Pet’s The Daily
Although uncommon, dogs can be affected by strokes, which can lead to life-long effects on their overall quality of life. Fortunately, regular veterinary care and taking proactive measures to support your dog’s health and wellness can dramatically decrease the chances of them suffering from a stroke. Additionally, recognizing stroke signs and seeking immediate veterinary treatment will ensure the best chances of survival and a more favorable prognosis.
For more information and tips on your dog’s health, check out the Native Pet blog.
