How to Recognize and Treat Aseptic Meningitis in Dogs

Aseptic meningitis occurs in dogs when the immune system has an issue. This condition affects membranes that cover the spinal cord and brain. Typically dog owners become alarmed when their canine spikes a fever. Because this condition is so serious immediate care is required. Here’s how to recognize and treat aseptic meningitis in dogs.

Things You'll Need

• Veterinarian's phone number

Instructions

1. Watch for signs of aseptic meningitis in your dog. Signs of this condition include fever, neck pain and lethargy. A wait and see approach isn’t a good idea because it can be fatal. Once you notice symptoms it’s time to get help.

2. Take your canine to the emergency animal hospital. Give your veterinarian a call and advice of your dog’s symptoms. Let them know that you’re on the way so they’ll be ready to treat your canine upon arrival.

3. Stay calm when transporting your dog. Because our dogs are intuitive by nature it’s important to stay calm. This will encourage your canine to remain calm which is important to its health.

4. Request testing for aseptic meningitis. Make sure that your vet performs a CBC (complete blood count) white blood test and a CFS (cerebral sinal fluid) tap which are helpful in diagnosing this condition. Explain all of the symptoms you’ve observed in your canine.

5. Partner with the vet to design a treatment plan. Request an immunosuppressive drug for your canine. This medication has been very successful in treating aseptic meningitis in dogs.

Tips & Warnings

• Response to medication can be expected in 1 to 2 days. If your dog isn’t responding to medication bring him back to the vet immediately.

• Watch your canine closely when coming off medication. Your canine will typically take an immunosuppressive drug for a month or longer. When your dog is coming off the medication watch for symptoms of relapse, including neck pain and fever.

Resources

• Pet Place
• Canadas Guide to Dogs