Vestibular Dysfunction with Dr. Gena Silver

03/09/21 • 51 min

Vestibular what? You might not have ever heard of vestibular dysfunction, but according to veterinary neurologist, Gena Silver, MS, DVM, DACVIM, it is one of the top three neurological issues in dogs. Imagine suddenly feeling dizzy, nauseous, stumbling, and even falling over. That is what an animal with vestibular dysfunction might abruptly experience. You might see your pet's head tilted to one side, their eyes darting, and they can't walk without support. This can feel devastating and even scary. But according to Dr. Silver, don't judge a book by its cover! Depending on the source of the problem, signs can disappear over time as with "old dog vestibular." A correct diagnosis, through an MRI, determines prognosis and treatment plan. However, a "wait, watch, and see" approach with supportive care at home may work as well. Listen as Dr. Silver explains why all pet owners should be familiar with signs related to 8th cranial nerve issues. Although vestibular dysfunction is common, signs may vary from the very subtle and difficult to recognize to the more overt where the dog is alligator rolling and vomiting. Let’s all learn the signs together because timely and accurate diagnosis determines prognosis.
Helpful links:
You can find Dr. Gena Silver at Mass Vet Referral Hospital.
Vestibular Disease Support Group for Dogs and Cats Vestibular Disease in Dogs Support Group

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Previous Episode

Everything puppies! with Kristy Williams, CVT, CCFT

Raising your puppy should be FUN! From the little learning sponges in the neonate stage to the fantastic, mature, sound adults they become, and everything in between, it’s here! Join us as we discuss the world of puppies with trainer, Kristy Williams, CVT, CCFT! She’ll open your mind to puppy things that you never even considered. Did you know it’s actually appropriate to stress the puppy within two weeks after birth – just a little bit - so they can handle stress better later in life? Or that early play with littermates contributes to bite inhibition as they age so your dog knows when to let go? What are the fabulous consequences of teaching our pups that nothing in life is for free, that they must earn it?!? Have you thought that you may be accidentally reinforcing undesired behaviors and then failing to provide positive options? You need to establish clear rules immediately as everything becomes much harder when your dog is 60+ pounds. The early days, weeks, and months are so important. Everything matters!

These are just of few of the pearls of wisdom heard in this episode. We also discuss:

· What a good breeder does before we get our puppy.

· The three physical stages of development and how this is determined based on growth plate closure and sexual maturity.

· Picking a puppy that’s right for you.

· The effects of the coronavirus pandemic on our puppies.

· Fear periods – what are they and when are they?

Link:
Canine growth plate closure chart