What is old dog vestibular syndrome? Is it the same thing as a stroke?

Old Dog Vestibular Syndrome, a.k.a. idiopathic vestibular disease is not the same thing as a stroke. It is unknown what causes Old Dog Vestibular Syndrome. It is likely to be due to an age related change in the inner ear. The syndrome mainly affects older dogs resulting in sudden instability, circling and head tilt. The dogs’ balance is sometimes so critically affected that the dog cannot stand. Instead it falls to the side or even rolls around on its back. The dog always moves in circles in the same direction as the head tilts. This can result in nausea and vomiting since the feeling imitates travel sickness.

Old Dog Vestibular Syndrome usually goes away on its own but it can take a few weeks. Some dogs live with minor symptoms the rest of their lives. Medication against anxiety and nausea can help.

Dogs can also get vestibular signs from deep ear infections or tumours that affect the nerve responsible for balance. It can be difficult to distinguish between Old Dog Vestibular disease and other conditions that affect the brain and nerves. If the dog does not improve after a few days it is possible the cause of the symptoms may be more sinister (such as a brain tumour). The symptoms can frighten the dog. If the dog feels sick or anxious it may require hospitalisation until it has stabilised.