How to Identify Meningitis in a Dog

Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining that surrounds the brain--the meninges. Frequently, the cause is a result of an autoimmune episode in your dog. A virus, such as West Nile, can cause the meninges to swell, putting pressure on your dog’s brain and central nervous system. Since meningitis is an extremely painful condition, learning to identify the symptoms will allow you to seek professional treatment quickly for your pooch.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Watch for neck pain in your dog. Since he can’t tell you where it hurts, observe the way he holds his head when moving. Bending the neck is very painful and your dog will try to minimize his head movement.
2. Observe his general attitude. A dog will suffer from a severe headache when he has meningitis. He may lie very still, as movement increases the pain and his eyes may appear glazed.
3. Take your dog’s temperature with a rectal thermometer. Normal body temperature for a dog is between 101.5 degrees and 102.5 degrees. A temperature of more than 103 degrees is cause for concern. Feeling your dog’s body is not a reliable indicator for determining his temperature.
4. Look for hypersensitivity in your dog. Even small sounds or touches can make him whine in pain if he has meningitis. Unusual whining is a reason to call your veterinarian.
5. Take your dog to your veterinarian if he exhibits signs of meningitis. The doctor will order a spinal fluid test to make a diagnosis. If your dog has meningitis, he will receive a continuous treatment of steroidal medications to reduce the inflammation and prevent a recurring episode.

Tips & Warnings

• Handle a dog with suspected meningitis gently. Movement is painful, so transport him to the veterinarian as carefully as possible.