What Are the Symptoms for a Dog Head Concussion?
Just like humans, dogs can suffer a head concussion, often caused by a blunt or penetrating injuring to his head. Some of the more common causes for concussions in dogs are car accidents, being hit by a bicycle or baseball bat, or fights with other animals. Concussions can lead to swelling, bruising, bleeding and ultimately to brain dysfunction in your pet. Some telltale signs will indicate if your dog has suffered a concussion.
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Seizures
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If your dog suddenly begins to experience seizures, there is an underlying problem. Seizures can often indicate brain injury in a pet.
Unconsciousness
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It may seem obvious, but when your pet seems to be sleeping but is unresponsive, he could have a concussion. Watch your dog any time he goes to sleep following a head injury. Will he respond to his name being called? Call you rouse him? An unconscious pet needs to be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
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Tilted Head
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It may be cute when your dog tilts his head to one side, but it can also indicate a brain injury. The dog knows there is something wrong and is doing his best to compensate.
Stiff Legs
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The brain tells every part of the body what to do and how to move. When your dog has suffered an injury of any kind and later seems to be having trouble walking, there may be a concussion. Stiff legs aren't just a sign of old age in pets. They can often indicate a deeper problem.
Flaccid Legs
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Conversely, when your dog's legs seem to have turned to spaghetti and he has trouble standing on them, the brain may be signaling injury.
Differing Pupil Size
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Remember how the school nurse used to shine a light in your eyes after a fall on the playground? She was checking for differing pupil sizes, an indication of concussion. Dogs' eyes may respond in the same way after a blow to the head.
Irregular Eye Movement
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Jerky or irregular eye movement in your dog is a sure sign that he has suffered a head injury. The optic nerves, located so near the brain, have been impacted.
Bleeding Ears Or Nostrils
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It is never normal for a dog to bleed from the nose or ears. If your dog is doing so, he needs immediate medical attention.
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References
- Photo Credit dog image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
