What is Stroke?
To ensure normal function, the brain requires a constant supply of blood flow. With a stroke, this constant supply is reduced or cut off in certain areas, causing symptoms such as loss of balance or blindness. With the advancement in testing and diagnostics, studies are showing that strokes in our pets are occurring more than previously thought. Breeds prone to a cerebrovascular accident are brachycephalic breeds (canines with wide, flat faces), Greyhounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Miniature Schnauzer.
Stroke in dogs is also known as a cerebrovascular accident, which means that the blood supply to the brain has suddenly been disrupted or destroyed. Stroke typically affects middle-age to geriatric dogs, but younger canines can have a cerebrovascular accident. There is no known gender disposition.
Strokes can present in a similar manner to other conditions such as idiopathic vestibular disease, inner ear infection recent toxin ingestion etc. This is one of the reasons why getting a diagnosis is key.
Stroke Average Cost
From 26 quotes ranging from $800 - $6,000
Average Cost
$1,500
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Symptoms of Stroke in Dogs
The onset of acute neurological signs can indicate a cerebrovascular accident. The severity of the signs will depend upon the region of the brain where the abnormality occurred, and how long the brain was deprived of the vital oxygen and blood supply.
- Loss of balance or falling
- Circling or weaving
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Paresis (weakness of voluntary movements)
- Loss of vision
- Head tilt
- Ataxia (inability to control movements)
- Change in behavior (for example, a calm dog becomes aggressive)
- Inability to recognize owner
- Seizure
- Sudden collapse
Types
The occurrence of a stroke is broken down into two types.
- Ischemic
- There is lack of blood flow to the brain
- It is the most common type of stroke to affect dogs
- A narrowing of the artery is called thrombosis
- A clogging of the artery by material from another location is called embolism
- Hemorrhagic
- There is a presence of too much blood
- Occurs with a broken blood vessel
- Blood between the brain and skull is a subdural hemorrhage
- Blood leaking within the brain in an intraparenchymal hemorrhage
It should be noted that when symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident resolve within 24 hours, it is considered a TIA (transient ischemic attack).
Causes of Stroke in Dogs
There are many predisposing conditions that your furry family member can have that may lead to a stroke. Several are listed here.
- Thyroid gland abnormalities
- Infection in the central nervous system
- Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Protein-losing nephropathy
- Lungworm
- Head trauma
- Heart attack
- Hyperlipidemia (high concentration of fats or lipids in blood)
- Intravascular cancers
- Abnormal development of blood vessels
- Inflammation in blood vessels or arteries
- Ingestion of rodent poisoning
- Increased blood viscosity (thickening of blood)
- Kidney, liver, or heart disease
- Clogging of an artery (such as by fat, tumor, or parasites)
- Congenital clotting disease
Diagnosis of Stroke in Dogs
If your dog is showing the neurological signs consistent with a cerebrovascular accident, do not delay in bringing him to the clinic. The veterinarian team will be ready to definitively diagnose the problem and do everything they can to calm your pet, and make him more comfortable. A big part of the diagnosis will be determining the underlying cause of the stroke.
The veterinarian may begin the exam with the following questions.
- How long have you noticed a change in your dog’s behavior?
- Did the symptoms come on in an acute fashion, or gradually become more noticeable or intense with time?
- Has your pet been ill recently?
- Is your dog on any medication?
- Is is possible that your dog could have been exposed to rodent poison or any other toxin?
The best way to determine if a stroke has taken place is by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your canine companion will need to be put under general anesthetic in order to be sure of good imaging results. The MRI is the leading diagnostic tool because the veterinary specialist will be able to visualise lesions that may be present as the result of a stroke.
The veterinarian may choose to do testing before the MRI to rule out disease, or to pinpoint the cause for the stroke occurrence.
- Also under anesthetic, a spinal tap could be done to rule out diseases that present similarly to a stroke
- Retinal exams to check for instances like optic disc swelling, consistent with intracranial pressure
- Endocrine testing to look for illnesses like diabetes
- Thyroid hormone analysis
- Complete blood count and serum chemistry panel
- Blood pressure check
- Urinalysis to check urine creatinine protein ratio
- Clotting studies
- Radiograph (thoracic), CT scan or ultrasound (abdominal) to look for masses, lesions or neoplasia
Treatment of Stroke in Dogs
In the case of a severe stroke, the treatment will involve hospitalization. The veterinarian will take the best approach available in the case of a cerebrovascular accident, which will include oxygen support and intravenous therapy to reduce brain swelling. Bringing your pet back to his previous state, or as close as is possible, will be the goal. Stabilising the systems of the body is very important.
Your pet (especially if he is a large breed) may need to stay in the clinic as advised by the veterinary care team, because if the dog is not yet mobile, he will need frequent turning and possible urinary catheterization. Physical therapy could be done during the hospital stay also, to help increase mobility and keep the limbs from becoming stiff.
When the veterinarian feels that your dog is ready to leave the clinic, she will advise you about the home care.
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Recovery of Stroke in Dogs
A change in diet may be in order, based on whether there are any underlying conditions. A diet sufficient in essential fatty acids is thought to be beneficial to dogs who have had a stroke.
As your beloved canine companion recovers, you will need to be in communication with the veterinary care team who will want to be kept well informed on the progression of the recovery. If your dog does not seem to be getting better, or if symptoms are worsening, the veterinarian may want to pursue further testing.
If your dog is recumbent (lying down because he is unable yet to walk or move around), you will need to watch and listen for aspiration pneumonia, one of the greatest risks to dogs who have had a stroke. Signs you may see that will indicate this are coughing, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, rapid breathing, or difficulty in taking a breath. If you are concerned about your pet’s medical condition, do not hesitate to take him back to the clinic.
The prognosis for stroke in dogs will depend on the severity of the cerebrovascular accident. Patience, reasonable expectations, and consistent care will be necessary. Your pet may have a change in personality, and less mobility or ability to keep up his usual level of activity, but he can still have a good quality of life with your help.
Cost of Stroke in Dogs
Every dog is different, and correspondingly, each situation at the veterinarian's office is different. However, there are a few standard things that the veterinarian will charge. One of which is hospitalization for the day. During this time, the dog will be observed, and this costs $72 on average. When a stroke happens there is little to no blood carrying oxygen throughout the body and, in this case, the veterinarian may suggest using oxygen support. Oxygen support can cost between $120 and $130 per treatment. Your dog may also require intravenous therapy or fluids that will help nourish and hydrate and can cost $35 to $62. Larger dogs need more fluids and costs will be higher. Urinary catheterization is usually required if the dog is unable to move on their own and can cost $45 on average. The cost is more if sedation is needed. Your dog may require overnight observation and that can add an additional $37-$82. The veterinarian may also suggest physical therapy once released from the hospital. Physical therapists usually offer medication; laser therapy treatments, therapeutic exercise, massage, heat application, and range of motion stretching. On average you can purchase a package of 4-6 treatments for $160 to $240.
The diagnostic tests, which can include blood tests, urinalysis and imaging can be very costly, costing many hundreds or even thousands of dollars in cases where MRIs are performed.
Stroke Average Cost
From 26 quotes ranging from $800 - $6,000
Average Cost
$1,500
Top
Stroke Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Maltese
Fifteen Years
20 found this helpful
20 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
He had a stroke a week ago. X-rays show he has stomach cancer and he is bleeding in his stomach. He is weak but still drinks a lot of water. He walks slowly and eats very little. Last night he threw up what he ate. He is alert and doesn't appear to be in pain. He is very quiet and sleeps a lot. His breathing is fine. Our Vet said we should think about putting him down.
What do you think we should do?
Feb. 6, 2021
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
20 Recommendations
Hello, If this mass is bleeding, your dog would need surgery to remove this mass and stop the bleeding or he could bleed out internally. Many times dogs with this condition are not stable enough for surgery and surgery can be very tricky and risky at this stage. Some dogs do not make it thru surgery. If you feel that your dog is suffering and has no quality of life then I do agree with the other vet it may be best to put your dog down. If you are able and want to attempt surgery in your know understanding the risk that he may not make it thru surgery, that would be the best option. I do not think just taking him home without doing anything would be a good option as I would worry that your dog will bleed internally and not live much longer.
So sorry that you are having to make these difficult decisions about your dog. Good Luck.
Feb. 6, 2021
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Mini poodle
14 0r 15?
3 found this helpful
3 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Sezuire,Stroke Uncontrolled Urination,Loss Of Balance,Panting,Wild Kicking
Seizure stroke unconcontrolled urination, loss of balsnce,panting wild kicking
July 24, 2020
Answered by Jessica N. DVM
3 Recommendations
Hello-
It sounds like your puppy could be having a seizure. She needs to go to the veterinarian immediately so they can assess her neurological status, perform bloodwork, and monitor for further seizures. If it is not a seizure they will be able to guide you in differentials for other potential causes. I hope she feels better soon.
July 24, 2020
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Chihuahua
Poppy
6 Years
7 found this helpful
7 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Eye Clouding
Disorientation
Head Tilt
Lifting Legs
Me and my husband were out side when our chihuahua came up to us holding her front left paw up like she had stepped on a thorn. She then switched and was holding up her right paw. We examined both paws and there was nothing stuck in either one. We set back down on the grass and she then was holding up her back left paw. And look like she was completely disoriented. She couldn't walk in a straight line, she looked drunk. She was tilting her head almost upside down. We immediately took her to the emergency vet. They did an exam and said that everything looks okay. She seemed okay. And thought it sounded like she had a seizure. We took her home, and kept a close eye on her. She was not herself for about 72 hours after. And the more educate myself it sounds like a stroke. Wondering what options i have at this point. I don't want it to happen again.
Sept. 17, 2018
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Chihuahua
George
9 Years
6 found this helpful
6 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Anxiety
Stroke
Extreme Fear
George is a 9 year old Chihuahua. We believe that he had a stroke or TIA a few months back. He is prone to seizures also but this time he fell over and tried to get up only to walk in circles and his eyes were bugged out more than usual (for this type of dog). He was fine writhing minutes just very tired. Since then an already anxious dog from noises has become a terrified dog afraid of even his own shadow. Hates going outside. Even terrified of the noise his dog bowls make when they hit his tag. Can this be related?
Sept. 3, 2018
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X ridgeback
Trixie
6 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Paralysis On Hind Legs Panting
My dog was chasing a ball and fell into a crack in the ground spun over and cried out she has MRI and vets said it is a stroke and they will keep her in to give her physiotherapy. Will she regain use of her legs
Aug. 14, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
I'm not able to answer that question without being able to examine Trixie or know more about her, unfortunately, as every situation is different. That would be a great question to ask of the veterinarians who are taking care of her, as they know her situation and are able to assess her and see what her prognosis is. I hope that she is okay.
Aug. 14, 2018
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Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Izzy
10 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargy
Crying
Passing Out
Leg Spasms
my dog Izzy (10 yrs old) was given a bath earlier today because she smelled bad, so we gave her one inside. She was acting nervous, because she has always hated water, but not acting any less than her normal self. After her bath, she went Into our kitchen and I was going to let her outside so she wouldn’t get the house all wet, but for some reason she was super reluctant, and wanted to stay in the kitchen. On her way out of the bathroom, she went to go greet my mom, but then she ended up slipping (we have hardwood floors in the kitchen). After she slipped, she was acting ok, but wanted to lie down. My dad set a towel on the floor for her, and then this is when it gets bad. She got up and then fell back down on her side, like she passed out, her head reaching back to her tail, her legs were violently kicking, and she was yelping really loudly. she then started to calm down, and was still proceeding to help. My moms a nurse and was checking her heart rate and her heart was RACING, I’d say around 140 bpm. She was breathing heavy and her heart was racing for around 10 minutes. She was so out of it, she couldn’t move at all; almost like she was paralyzed. She lied there for around an hour, and then she eventually got up. Over the past month, she has been having random episodes of passing out, but nothing this extreme. She has also been urinating in our living room without even warning my dad that she needs to go out like she has always done. She’s also urinated herself in her sleep. Our old girl means the world to me and my family, and I really would love to know what the possibilities of her “episode” could be caused by.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever mix
Izzy
10 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Crying
Yelping
Falling Over
Violent Kicks
my dog Izzy (10 yrs old) was given a bath earlier today because she smelled bad, so we gave her one inside. She was acting nervous, because she has always hated water, but not acting any less than her normal self. After her bath, she went Into our kitchen and I was going to let her outside so she wouldn’t get the house all wet, but for some reason she was super reluctant, and wanted to stay in the kitchen. On her way out of the bathroom, she went to go greet my mom, but then she ended up slipping (we have hardwood floors in the kitchen). After she slipped, she was acting ok, but wanted to lie down. My dad set a towel on the floor for her, and then this is when it gets bad. She got up and then fell back down on her side, like she passed out, her head reaching back to her tail, her legs were violently kicking, and she was yelping really loudly. she then started to calm down, and was still proceeding to help. My moms a nurse and was checking her heart rate and her heart was RACING, I’d say around 140 bpm. She was breathing heavy and her heart was racing for around 10 minutes. She was so out of it, she couldn’t move at all; almost like she was paralyzed. She lied there for around an hour, and then she eventually got up. Over the past month, she has been having random episodes of passing out, but nothing this extreme. She has also been urinating in our living room without even warning my dad that she needs to go out like she has always done. She’s also urinated herself in her sleep. Our old girl means the world to me and my family, and I really would love to know what the possibilities of her “episode” could be caused by.
Stroke Average Cost
From 26 quotes ranging from $800 - $6,000
Average Cost
$1,500
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
