Vestibular Disease

What is Vestibular Disease?
The vestibular apparatus is what helps your dog keep his balance, letting him know how his body is oriented in relation to the earth. It has components in the middle ear and in the brain. In some dogs, usually older dogs, something suddenly goes wrong with it and the dog becomes acutely dizzy, to the point he may not be able to walk. Many owners incorrectly assume their dog has had a stroke. In most cases vestibular disease is a temporary condition.

How does my dog get Vestibular Disease?
Because this condition appears most often in old dogs, it's sometimes called old dog (or geriatric) vestibular disease. At this time nobody knows what causes it.  It may be related to a change in the flow of the fluid in the semi-circular canals of the inner ear, or from inflammation of associated nerves, but the cause of these changes is similarly unknown. In uncommon cases, a brain tumor may be responsible.

How do I know if my dog has Vestibular Disease?
Your dog, especially older dog, may become suddenly dizzy. The dizziness may make him nauseous so he may vomit and drool.  He may stumble and stagger, or fall to one side and flop around as he tries to get up. If you check his gum color, it will be pink, rather than extremely pale (which would suggest other more serious conditions).  His head may be tilted. His eyes will dart either from one side to another (quickly in one direction, then slowly on the return) over and over, or in a rotating action. Your veterinarian may be able to diagnose the condition by looking at him, but may also want to run some tests to rule out other conditions or to look for causes such as inner ear infection or trauma. If the condition persists, additional tests, including a CT scan or MRI, may be needed to rule out inner ear infections.

What can I do about Vestibular Disease?
Treatment consists of keeping your dog comfortable and safe.  Make sure he can't stumble down stairs or fall into furniture.  If he is too nauseous to eat or drink without vomiting, he may need intravenous fluids. This is especially true for old dogs that may already be debilitated. If he can't get up at all, you may need to help hold him so he can relieve himself, and turn him from side to side. Your veterinarian may prescribe sedatives and anti-nausea medication, and possibly antibiotics if an inner ear infection is suspected. In most cases your dog will feel better within three to four days, although it may take a few weeks for him to completely regain his balance. Some dogs are left with a permanent head tilt. The condition rarely recurs.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting Vestibular Disease?
Because nobody knows what causes vestibular disease, and it does not seem to have a hereditary basis, there is nothing you can do to prevent it.

Are there certain breeds that get Vestibular Disease more often?
It may be more common in medium to large breeds, but can happen in any breed.