The Signs of Neurological Disorders in Dogs
Neurological disorders in dogs are similar to those in humans, involving conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These conditions can lead to various symptoms, ranging from behavioural changes to physical challenges.
If you notice any unusual changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical condition, contact your local veterinary practice and ask for a referral to Davies Veterinary Specialists for expert advice and care.
Common Neurological Disorders in Dogs
Dogs can experience a range of neurological disorders. Some of the more commonly encountered conditions include:
- Seizures: Episodes of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.
- Brain Tumours: Abnormal growths in or around the brain.
- Stroke: Sudden loss of blood supply to the brain.
- Peripheral Nerve Disorders: Conditions affecting the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease: Damage or rupture of the discs between the spinal vertebrae.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive disease affecting the spinal cord.
- Hydrocephalus: Accumulation of fluid in the brain.
This list is not exhaustive. If you are worried about changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical condition, contact your local vet immediately. They can assess your dog and refer you to Davies Veterinary Specialists, where our expert neurology team can provide a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan.
Recognising Neurological Disorders in Dogs
Signs of neurological issues in dogs can present in various ways, including behavioural changes, physical challenges, and sensory impairments.
Behavioural Signs of Neurological Disorders
Watch for changes in your dog’s usual behaviour, which could indicate a neurological problem, such as:
- Disorientation or confusion.
- Seizures.
- Increased aggression, fearfulness, or withdrawal.
Physical Signs of Neurological Challenges
Neurological disorders can also impact your dog’s physical abilities. Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty walking or standing.
- Head tilting to one side.
- Trouble maintaining coordination or walking in a straight line.
- Pain or discomfort when touched.
- Muscle tremors or involuntary twitching.
- Partial or complete paralysis in certain areas of the body.
Sensory Signs of Neurological Disorders
Neurological conditions can affect a dog’s senses, leading to:
- Vision impairments: Difficulty avoiding or bumping into obstacles, or blindness.
- Hearing loss: Lack of response to sounds or noises.
- Loss of smell: Reduced interest in food or difficulty detecting scents.
Additional Signs of Neurological Disorders
Some neurological conditions may also result in:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, leading to incontinence.
- Excessive drooling.
- Unusual or involuntary eye movements.
If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, consult your local veterinary practice for an assessment. They can refer you to Davies Veterinary Specialists for expert care.
The Facilities at Davies Veterinary Specialists
At Davies Veterinary Specialists, we offer advanced facilities and diagnostic tools to identify and treat neurological disorders in dogs. Our cutting-edge technologies include:
- MRI: For detailed imaging of the brain and spinal cord.
- Anaesthesia Induction Room: A dedicated space designed for safe and comfortable preparation of pets before undergoing procedures.
- X-ray Room: Equipped with modern radiographic technology for capturing high-quality images of your pet’s skeletal and internal structures.
- Endoscopy Suite: A specialised facility for minimally invasive procedures to examine and treat internal conditions.
- ICU Wards: Intensive care units staffed 24/7 to provide critical care and round-the-clock monitoring for pets in need.
- Hearing Evaluations: To assess auditory function and diagnose hearing-related concerns.
- Radiography and Ultrasound: For advanced diagnostic imaging and accurate assessments of internal structures.
Our neurology and neurosurgery teams collaborate with our in-house anaesthesia and imaging specialists to deliver comprehensive, multidisciplinary care tailored to each dog’s needs.
Seek a Referral to Davies Veterinary Specialists
Recognising the signs of neurological disorders early can make a significant difference in your dog’s quality of life. If you suspect your dog may be experiencing a neurological condition, speak to your local veterinary practice about a referral to Davies Veterinary Specialists.
Located in Hertfordshire, Davies Veterinary Specialists is a leading provider of advanced diagnostic and treatment options for small animals. Our specialist team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, expert care, ensuring pet owners are supported throughout the process.
Don’t ignore changes in your dog’s behaviour, senses, or physical abilities. Reach out to your local vet and seek a referral to Davies Veterinary Specialists to ensure your dog receives the best possible care.
Learn more about Davies Veterinary Specialists in our pet owners’ section.