The Signs of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Neurological disorders in dogs are much like those in human; they are conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and nerves. These conditions can cause a number of different symptoms to display in dogs that range from behavioural changes to physical impairments.

If you have noticed a change in your dog’s behaviour or condition, get in touch with your local veterinary practice today and seek a referral to Southfields Veterinary Specialists for further advice and treatment.

Common Neurological Disorders in Dogs

There are a number of neurological disorders that can affect dogs; some of the more common neurological disorders include:

• Seizures: Sudden and uncontrollable electrical activity in the brain.
• Brain Tumours: Abnormal growths on the brain.
• Stroke: The sudden loss of blood flow to the brain.
• Peripheral Nerve Disorders: Nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord are affected.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease: The discs between vertebrae in the spine become damaged or ruptured.
• Degenerative Myelopathy: A disease that affects the spinal cord. This is a progressive disease.
• Hydrocephalus: A build-up of fluid in the brain.

This is not an exhaustive list of neurological disorders that can affect dogs. If you are concerned about changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical condition, speak to your local veterinary practice straight away and seek a referral to Southfields Veterinary Specialists for further information, diagnosis and treatment with our neurology and neurosurgery team.

The Common Signs of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

The signs of neurological disorders in dogs can manifest in a number of different ways, from behavioural changes to physical challenges and sensory changes.

Behavioural Signs of Neurological Disorders

As a pet owner, it is key to monitor your dog’s behaviours and pick up when there may be a change that is concerning. If your dog is suffering with a neurological disorder, they may display behavioural changes such as:

• Disorientation and confusion
• Seizures
• Becoming more aggressive, fearful or withdrawn.

Physical Signs of Neurological Challenges

Alongside behavioural changes, your dog may begin to struggle with their physical abilities if they are suffering from a neurological disorder. They begin to display:

• Difficulties walking or struggling to stand.
• Their head may begin to tilt to the one side.
• Difficulties walking in a straight line due to a loss of coordination.
• Pain or discomfort when being touched or handled.
• Involuntary muscle tremors or twitching.
• Paralysis in a part of the body.

Sensory Signs of Neurological Disorders

Sadly, when dogs are affected by a neurological condition, this can also impact their senses.

• Vision: Dogs may be affected by blindness and have difficulties seeing, avoiding obstacles or bumping into obstacles.
• Hearing: Dogs may struggle with deafness and not respond to noises or sounds around them.
• Smell: Dogs may become less interested in food and have difficulties in detecting smells due to a loss of smell.

Other Signs of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Outside of the already mentioned signs of neurological conditions, dogs may also struggle with a loss of control over their bowel or bladder functions, leaving them suffering with incontinence, excessive drooling and abnormal and involuntary eye movements.

If you notice any of these changes in your dog’s behaviour, senses or physical ability, speak to your local veterinary practice and ask for a referral to Southfields Veterinary Specialists today.

Neurology Facilities at Southfields Veterinary Specialists

At Southfields Veterinary Specialists, we have state of the art facilities that allow of veterinarians to provide a comprehensive diagnosis of your dog’s neurological disorders and ensure that the right treatment is offered.

Our advanced technologies include:

• MRI & CT Scans
• Hearing Evaluations
• Radiography and Ultrasound
• Electrophysiologic Evaluation of the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscle function.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis (CSF)

Our neurology and neurosurgery teams work with our in-house anaesthesia and imaging teams to ensure that your dog receives the highest quality multidisciplinary care whilst with us.

Be Aware of The Signs of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

For neurological disorders and conditions, Southfields Veterinary Specialists only accept referrals from referring vets. If you have noticed a change in your dog’s behaviours or personality, speak to your local veterinary practice today and seek a referral to Southfields from them.

Don’t let changes in your dog go unnoticed, speak to your local veterinary practice today and seek your referral to Southfields Veterinary Specialists quickly.

Learn more about Southfields Veterinary Specialists in our pet owners section.