Vestibular Disease
Meet Cyrus! In early November, 15-year-old Cyrus had what the owner thought was a stroke, but was actually idiopathic vestibular disease. Although he regained the ability to walk completely on his own within two weeks, he still did not eat much and the owner had to hand feed him. In the course of three weeks, Cyrus whom was 60-pounds had lost 10 pounds. A friend recommended that the owner try Dr. Kelly with Leading Animal Chiropractic and the following is her testimony. "I will be forever glad that I did. Immediately after his first session, he walked over to his dog bowl, I filled it up and he ate the entire meal without stopping. His strong appetite continued and following each session he began to stand taller and straighter than he had in years. I am thrilled with his progress in only three sessions." Cyrus was becoming himself again! Never give up on your furry friends, their life can be turned around.
So what exactly is vestibular disease? Vestibular disease occurs where there is irritation to the nerves connecting the inner ear with the brain. This affects the body's balance system, resulting in vertigo, dizziness, excessive drooling, vomiting, head tilting, circling, nystagmus, swaying, lack of coordination and balance. Not all of these symptoms will be seen. Some of these symptoms can resemble a stroke so if you see any of these take your furry friend to the veterinarian immediately. Irritation of the nerves in the inner ear can be caused by overzealous cleaning of the ears, perforated eardrum, infection, trauma from head injury, loss of blood flow, cancer, stroke, tumors, polyps, meningoencephalitis, hypothyroidism, as well as certain drugs like the amino glycoside antibiotics, including drugs like amikacin, gentamicin, neomycin, and tobramycin. Breeds predisposed to this condition include the German shepherd, Doberman pinscher, Akita, English cocker spaniel, Beagle, Smooth fox terrier, and the Tibetan terrier.
Depending on the root cause of the problem will determine the course of treatment. Chiropractic helps alleviate nerve irritation, which is why Cyrus responded so well to his treatment. Make sure your furry friend receives regular adjustments so some of these problems can be avoided, and if heaven forbid a problem does occur, their nervous system is working at its optimal level making for a speedy recovery.
