What's Vestibular Disease in Dogs Really Like: Dan & Buddy's story

[@DanNortonProduction]

Thank you for having me on and the opportunity to share our story! Hope it helps encourage someone going through it with their pet. You’re the best Dr. Alex👊🏼

[@OurPetsHealth]

Thank YOU for sharing your story, I know it will help a lot of people!

[@kristiantucker5449]

Me & my dog are dealing with it. 18 hours ago my ger shep/cross lab (14yo) just lost all balance, eye's darting & unable to get up on his own strength. I took him to the vet immediately, 3 hours & 600$ later I took him home with steroids & anti nausea meds, the vet said he has Nystagymus. His eyes won't stop darting and he can just hold his own weight & his head is tilted to one side. This is a heart wrenching disease, though I have hope. I can't afford an MRI but I will be with him every second of every day to feed him, toilet him, turn him, massage his muscles, stretch his muscles & talk to him. The saddest part is he doesn't know; what's wrong with him. I truly sympathise with anyone who goes through this :'(

[@DanNortonProduction]

Kris Tucker so sorry to hear that.. I understand all too well, and how hard it is to watch... If it’s the same then it can just be a waiting game. Dr. Alex would have the best insights but I can empathize with you so much.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Sorry to hear that Kris. Give him time and plenty of TLC at home and fingers crossed he'll pull through before too long. So long as he's eating and drinking then home is probably the best place for him. Let us know how he gets on + take care

[@kristiantucker5449]

@@OurPetsHealth Thank's I've switched him to soft food & he drinks plenty of water. Toileting him is a struggle as he weighs 30 plus kilos but we manage. I'll update you guy's in a week. Thanks again.

[@alexpapworth3757]

Social media isnt always great for the world but for things like this it is amwzing! My 16 year old rottweiler has vestibular and its been traumatising i was chatting with partner about the lack of awareness on this and the amount of poor dogs get put to sleep before havibg a chance to recover. My old boy got it 2 weeks ago extremely bad but made an amazing recivery for 4 5 days but then a few days ago because of infection in the other ear we wasnt putting the antibiotics in the infection has came strsight back and now back on day 3 with no recovery so far. So please everyone when diagnosed with this make sure the vet checks both ears and that you use the antibiotics and clean both ears not just the one the vet tells you to focus on. Could walk still the first time but very very wobbly. This time no movement in back end and pooing himself so definately more difficult this week seeing him not move his back legs atall but im giving him the time and patience he needs again and hope in another few days he will make another recovery again. ❤

[@pajguitar]

My 15 year old bull terrier had this . Suddenly started falling over , rapid eye movement , crashing into things and severe nausea - i thought he was at end of life . Within 48 hours he completly recovered and two weeks on is still fine. Dont rush into any rash decisions as recovery can happen as quickly as the disease strikes

[@OurPetsHealth]

You're absolutely right! Thanks for sharing your experience 😀

[@pajguitar]

No - i googled his symptoms and heard about vestibular and how they can recover so i decided to wait and see as i wasnt keen on him being poked and prodded at his age , although i would have had to take him if it persisted - i dont think anything can be done though ,apart from medication to ease the nausea . It can be disturbing to see and i initially thought it was a stroke. Hope your dog recovers asap

[@mojavewolf1]

Which is why I don’t want to rush into putting my down down !! She was still loving life !!

[@enithuber5207]

@@mojavewolf1 o

[@sharonezzo5485]

It's scary, and our first thought was omd... a stroke? :-( and immediately one thinks, this is the end.. ugh.. I'm feeling a tad better after listening to Our Pets Health's videos and testimonials to hang in. After all our girl beat parvovirus as a pup, kennel cough, spindle cell carcinoma and liver cancer. At 13 she looks and acts like she's 8!! I can't give up on her yet..

[@carolinevargo_]

I’m on day 5 of my chihuahua with vestibular and she isn’t taking water or food. Thanks for sharing your story, it gives me hope for Coco. She’s only 7.

[@jessacasmith3503]

Thank you so much for this video. We are almost 24 hrs into this. And I am mentally drained. I wish I could make him feel better.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he gets better soon. You need to take care of yourself as well, this may help - kzbin.info/www/bejne/an-WdayLj9t6nKc

[@jessacasmith3503]

Thank you for that. It’s hard to to remember yourself when you are knee deep in this. Trying to get water and food in him. Meds. To get him moving and not let him harm himself in the process. It’s a roller coaster of emotions. I went into the vet with a bad outlook. I got him home and had so much positive ness that we were going to get him through this. And then last night started to lose hope again. Thank you again for posting this. It gave me hope. My boy is 12 and a big lovable baby. It’s hard to see him like this. Chasing the ball is all he lives for. And for him not to be able to do that is hard to see.

[@amybeaver6912]

Im going through this now. Its just so awful as i feel completely helpless

[@jacobj.1969]

@@OurPetsHealth Thank you

[@kimberlya1867]

I hope our dog has this or a ear infection that can go away! and not a brain tumor or something else, I want him with me and him bieng okay😢 hes 16 and I know thats old I just don't want to lose him.❤ He still eats and drinks he pees, and he pooped but that took alittle longer before he did that. But he is really tired I take him outside for the pee sesions😅😊 but he wants to be inside right after, when he doesnt see me or knows where to go he spins around. Can you please let me know if this sounds like this syndrome? Or if you heard this with someone elses story lmk🙏🙏

[@meowithil]

Thank you for sharing your story! Our sweet 13 year old cocker spaniel, Sebastian, started stumbling and falling today. We had just returned home from the vet (he’s on a heart medication) when the symptoms began. He seemed so confused and would fall/walk in circles. He didn’t recognize our front door and tried going to our neighbors side. I of course began freaking out thinking he has some sort of stroke- but my boyfriend reassured me that this is common in older doggies. That’s when I started googling and ran across this video. We’re going to keep an eye on him closely and hopefully he won’t get any worse. To all who experience this with their loved pets- stay strong and I pray for all those babies to recover. So glad that Buddy recovered! ❤

[@georgemorissette8856]

Thanks for taking your time to share your story. Same thing happened to our older dog. We were scared shitless and sad thinking we would have to put Sheila down. Our vet encouraged us with the great news that Sheila would most likely get better quickly. We were so happy. We had no idea what was going on or that this illness wasn’t catastrophic. Seeing videos of other dogs improving and returning to happy healthy dogs is incredibly helpful to others going through this . Thx !!

[@ericadejuan4191]

Our pup started experiencing these symptoms yesterday afternoon. She was fine that morning, and by the afternoon, could barely stand up, let alone walk. She is 15+ years old, but she was running in the yard just a week ago. This is so heartbreaking to watch Kylie go through. We are giving her all the love we can and are hoping she begins to improve. Thank you so much for sharing your story. It really gives us hope, and has definitely helped our decision to not talk euthanizing just yet. We're gonna give her a chance to pull through.

[@leahcar5555]

How is your dog now?

[@ddemier]

Update? My dogs doing the same. 15 going on 16

[@raggoonyt]

Any updates?

[@christineames5762]

My Aussie Sandy Beaches is in the beginning of this vestibular situation. She's still laying down and I have been brushing her (it relaxes her) and holding her so she knows I'm here near her . She's thrown up . Has the eye movements. Like she's looking at everything really quickly . I thought she was going to die. But I'm going to fight this fight with her , for her . And if we lose , then I know she knows that she's loved . And she is worth every single second I got to spend with her. Des normally loving every toy. Pet cat and dog . Loves life .. and running & playing . She loves her life. And even when she had the chance to leave me in her dust , she's never left my side , so I'm not leaving hers. Your video has given me the determination she deserves thank you .

[@elainemorandini3558]

Hi. My dog started with this on Wednesday 3rd November 2021. We are now on day 4. It has been a very tiring and worrying time for both of us. Honey will be 15 on December 1st so we were of course told “she’s lived a long life” by the first vet practice. Went for second opinion and she’s been on supportive care - fluids, anti-nausea med and lots of love. Today she was able to walk a short distance by herself and stand to piddle on the lawn. She’s only eating chicken breast and I’m feeding her with small amounts often. She’s drinking plenty of water too. It’s been a very hard - and expensive week but we’ve come this far and I’m determined to give her the best I can. Here’s hoping that by next weekend her story has reached a happy ending. Please don’t ever give up on your dog if u find they have this. They deserve the chance - the time - and your love. 🍀💕

[@FitLikeaPhoenix]

How is Honey now? I woke this morning to my fur baby experiencing this shocking issue, so hard to see her like this, she was feeling fantastic just yesterday!

[@funnygurls12345]

I would also like to know the dogs are now. My shiba has been going through this for almost 48 hours it’s heartbreaking. It came out of nowhere

[@elainemorandini3558]

@@funnygurls12345 Hi. My dog fully recovered - it lasted 2 weeks - as the vet said it would. She is now 16yrs3Mo old. No residual symptoms at all. She’s 26kg and has some arthritis. Otherwise all ok. Vestibular disease is definitely NOT a death sentence. Good luck 🍀

[@elainemorandini3558]

@@FitLikeaPhoenix hi. Sorry I didn’t see your reply. Hope your dog is ok x

[@FitLikeaPhoenix]

@@elainemorandini3558 Hi! Thank you! I was afraid her best years were behind her or worse, but she was so resilient and over time her head tilt has dramatically improved, and she's regained her balance now almost to new, minus her ability to sit back on her haunches with her paws up in the air (but she's getting better at it, as we practice this together). So relieved! She's doing great.

[@janettegarcia4521]

Our almost 12 year old Yorkie at that time had old dog vertigo a year ago. The doctor at the ER told me if it doesn’t get better in 3 days she wouldn’t get better. But I did some reading on it and the article said up to 2 weeks … we couldn’t afford to keep her at the ER any longer than a couple of hours so we brought her home and loved on her and carried her out for potty, put diapers on her, and spoon fed her water and food and eventually about a month later she recovered. She’s remained wobbly on her feet and shakes at times ever since .. it’s been a year and a half now that she is wobbly and shakes at times. Now she is 13 and just this week she seems to have suffered from another milder vestibular attack but it’s left her we believe blind not sure yet. She is going in and out of being weak in her ability to walk. She isn’t crazy about eating or drinking right now …So we are once again (a year and a half later) treating her with tender loving care because that’s all we can afford to do. Please pray for us and that our Delilah won’t suffer more than she already has. She has a strong will to live. Thank you so much for encouraging others to wait and love their doggies thru this because if you are blessed you will get more time with them. Delilah has made it successfully to over a year at this point.

[@GingerBeardedDude]

I’m so grateful for this video. I’ve had the worst 24 hours with my English Springer Moss. He’s been lying flat with the starting eyes and complete imbalance. I took him to the vet today and he was diagnosed with vestibular disease. He’s 14 and a half and I was convinced we were saying goodbye. I’m hoping that we see the recovery that Buddy has experienced. Thanks so much for offering comfort I needed. Much love.

[@aarongoodwin4845]

If (God forbid) it happens again.... Covering his eyes will help him with the motion sickness and it will lower his stress level! Happening to my 13.5 year old Wyoming Mountain Dog as I am typing this message! This is the second time! She's currently sleeping on the cool kitchen floor under an old shirt of mine I'm using to cover her eyes! I also think my scent is helping her relax! I'm her Rock! She is my Rock!

[@GingerBeardedDude]

@@aarongoodwin4845 Wishing her a speedy recovery - thanks for the tip!

[@aarongoodwin4845]

@@GingerBeardedDude it helps when it first starts because they get panicky! She's wagging her tail now and able to sit without falling over! I'm trying to comfort her by getting drunk so I can better associate myself with her troubles! LOL Cheers friend! Our fur babies are family!

[@judes099]

My 17 year old is going through this now. Thank you so much for this video! I was terrified, thinking he had a stroke and I'd have to put him down. We are on day 3, and he is a little better than yesterday. This gives me that hope that I needed that he will get through this.

[@AM-bw7hv]

Wow 17!. You give me hope. My little one is almost blind but still playing at 16.

[@jrokk80]

My 13 year old yellow lab is currently experiencing something like you're describing and it's killing me. My wife and daughter are freaking out too. We are just trying to keep her comfortable but shes violently ill throwing up, she's falling everywhere and can't stand up, her eyes are twitching, and she's panting really heavy. Trying not get too upset but it feels pretty helpless. It's really hard to watch. She's old but relatively healthy and still had a spring in her step until this sudden "attack." I just hope she recovers quickly. I don't do well losing my dogs. But if it's her time I don't want her to suffer. She deserves so much better. She's been a great friend and I'm scared to death she's suffering. I hate this for her.

[@leahcar5555]

How is your dog now?

[@jrokk80]

@Leah Car the vet gave her a drug for the dizziness and a steroid for 3 weeks. She slowly got better but the vet thinks she has a tumor or a stroke. She's much better but there are still remnants of it and they'll never go away fully. She's very sluggish and she stays laying away from the family most of the time. She has accidents in the house a lot now too. Her sight and hearing are deteriorating. We are deciding whether we think her quality of life is high enough to justify letting her live like that. But it's a decision none of us want to make.

[@leahcar5555]

@@jrokk80 Glad to hear she slowly improved, but I’m sorry you’re now faced with the terrible decision we all have to make at some point. Wishing you all the best. We just took our 13 yo lab to the vet today, and she thinks it’s old dog vestibular disease. Hoping the meds we got today and time will improve up her symptoms, but I know the day will come soon when we also must make the same tough decision you do.

[@pnhnut]

Thank you for this story! It is so helpful for those of us that have googled this because their dogs are suffering. We now have hope for our dear old corgi who woke up this way this morning.

[@karencomtois4114]

Wanting to talk to other ppl dealing with this as well at this time.

[@celestialseeker7077]

I just rushed my dog last night to a 24 hour hospital ☹️ hope my pet recovers

[@celestialseeker7077]

My Bassador died Sunday. She was laid to rest yesterday 😞

[@itzapatito7997]

I was literally sobbing today because my 13yo mini pinscher was acting all drunk and does not wanna get out of bed. We kinda have to force her. Its day 2 of this and i was considering taking her to get checked. After seeing this i feel a lot better and will wait a couple more days. Hopefully she will be fine. 😢

[@OurPetsHealth]

i would get her checked as there are other things that can cause similar symptoms. Hope she's better soon

[@t595nige]

So glad I watched this as I seriously thought my lovely cattle dogs days were numbered....from not being able to walk and within 10 minutes being able to run round the garden is the most bizarre and distressing things I’ve ever experienced...this video has explained a lot....thank you

[@dlrefh]

Thank you so much! Our 13 year old goldendoodle was diagnosed with vestibular disease 5 days ago and it has been a scary journey. So far we have not seen much improvement. She's on a medication for the motion sickness, a medication for the nausea, and a medication for GI upset probably brought on by stress. She is a sweet old girl and it is heartbreaking to see her pronounced head tilt, stumbling gait, lethargy, and disorientation. We have seen 4 vets in 5 days and they all say the same thing - support her, and she will recover. The darting eyes are so alarming. I'm so glad to have found this video and I am hopeful that my girl will recover soon.

[@allisonc9645]

has she recovered? We are dealing with this now with our beloved 14 year old springer and it is helpful to read these comments but few give updates. How is your dog now after these 3 weeks have passed since your post?

[@debbiev7858]

Thanks for sharing. This is exactly what we're dealing with. Our doggie, aged 12, exhibited precisely the same symptoms. He spent four nights with our vet and showed no improvement until we decided to bring him home, assuming he was dying, but we wanted him to die at home. Imagine our surprise when, after two days at home, he began walking better and holding his head a little straighter. Now, two weeks in, he continues to improve a little each day.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Great to hear he is improving well. These videos might also be helpful - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIO1Y6Soa6iYlck

[@Steve-gj1ev]

Same thing happened to my dog. We are seven days into this. My dog still having a hard time. I heard it takes two weeks maybe four weeks even longer. How's your dog doing now?

[@JoEnUtZ23]

So glad this story was brought to life. I have a 13 year old female Doberman that was also at my mothers while I was working. I walked into the door as she was sleeping and hearing the door open. She got off the couch to stretch and as soon as she started to walk. It was like she was drunk or blind. Her eyes never started to flicker left and right until the next day which is when I made an emergency trip to the vet. $800 later. Blood was fine. Liver and thyroid fine. Muscular and skeletal fine. Heart fine. Toxicology report from urine sample all clear. Vet said sounds like vestibular syndrome. Without being referred to a bigger city with an MRI. She was assuming it was that over a brain tumour. Fast forward to today. 48 hours after initial scary moment. Her eyes are not doing it as severe or as often. Anti nausea. Meds helped her sleep last night. Was 26 hours before she got her sleep. Hasn’t ate much at all but is in her water. She can’t walk on hard a wood floors or linoleum yet but carpet and driveway is a lot better. Still looks wobbly while walking but much better on either surface.

[@dtydwgjay]

Thanks man. I thought my dog had a seizure/stroke on Friday. Did a blood test and it showed that the liver enzymes were elevated. Today is Saturday and she was still walking in circles, falling over and her eyes were still twitching. I made the decision to take her to the 24 hour vet to put her down as i hated seeing her suffer. I cried like a baby so many times before putting her in the car. Finally got to the 24 hour vet and they diagnosed her for Vestibular Disease (most likely). So fingers crossed she will get better the next few days. She is 15 by the way.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she's recovering now

[@damocles2945]

How long did it takefor recovery

[@dtydwgjay]

@@damocles2945 a few days to a week or so

[@Michelle-lu3oj]

My GSD is 12.5 years old is going through this right now. Thank you for your story and I pray you have many more years with your doggy!

[@annieok654]

This is wonderful to read! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Our 13 year old Roxie developed serious vertigo early Tuesday morning ( today is Thursday afternoon). I was terrified. We nursed her, finally got a vet appointment on Wednesday afternoon . We are watching her, supporting her. She's on a vet vertigo drug, Cerenia, very expensive, for 2 days. But at least we have hope and can support her, go all the way with her. And she knows we love her. She will be okay! Thank you for this video, which was recommended by your vet friend!!

[@colleenfaitro613]

My shepherd mix just started this today. I was in tears and ran her to the vet. My vet said anti nausea meds and sent us home. It’s so hard to see her like this. She is 13. She is eating and going potty outside. I pray it’s not worse tomorrow.

[@mammadingo9165]

How did she go ?

[@bevtibbits9568]

Thank you for sharing this. My 15 year old schnauzer is on day 2 of vestibular disease. This is his 3rd bout and this is as scary as the first time.It is so hard to watch your pet so incapacitated. Watching videos like yours is just so encouraging and even though this is his 3rd bout in 4 months I still need to be refreshed Last two times he recovered in a few days. I hope these episodes dont keep recurring. Thank thank you

[@Maineuser]

We’re deep into round 4 w/ my near-14 y/o pug. First time not eating or drinking. First time a week in w/ no improvement. We’re throwing the sink at it. So hard to bear! Grateful to hear from others that it does recur.

[@leila1]

Something similar happened to a family dog. He had a history of seizures. He has gradually gone down hill over the past few weeks but was very unsteady yesterday. The vet advised to end his life, to which my family agreed before reading about vestibular disease. I have a feeling that he had this but the vet is sire he either had a stroke or a tumour. We are devastated we didn't read about it before.

[@Matt-zp8ng]

Thank you for these videos and sharing your story @Dan. I watched your other video as well on Vestibular Disease and it has put me much more at ease during an extremely stressful time. I am currently on hour 48 of when my 11 year old Jack Russell started showing serious symptoms. Just like Buddy, my dogs knees are not the greatest, so I thought this was the cause of the (initial) difficulty standing/wobbliness. 12 hours later, my dog can't stand at all, and kept falling over on his side, while his eyes were darting all over the place and wouldn't eat or drink anything. I 100% thought he was having a stroke. Watching how quickly symptoms progress is absolutely terrifying and thought I was going to have to make a very difficult decision. Thankfully, while not completely out of the woods just yet, after some vet prescribed nausea meds and some steroids, he chowed down some food tonight and was even able to slowly walk again outside for his bathroom break. I'm really hoping this is just idiopathic. Thank you for educating us on this scary disease.

[@24peterbuilt]

I am sitting here crying with my 6 year old Boston and he was diagnosed with this. It makes me cry that I can’t help him. It’s been three weeks.

[@kimberlycozad5789]

My dog is 16. She had vestibular disease last year. It took 3 weeks before she started to show improvement. Then 1 and 1/2 months ago it happened again. This time she is not improving. Her eyes are no longer moving but she can't walk, she isn't even trying. We've made the decision to put her to sleep.

[@JoshuaSmith-lh8wk]

Thank you so much for sharing. Our German shep will be 14 y.o. in two months and she is on day 3 of this horrible disease. Three days ago she was playing with her toys, ate normal, and then bam- she succumbed to all of the vestibular symptoms. Today is slightly better, but she still is falling all over (though she ate a little bit for the first time) and does not want to get up on her own. This is such a hard thing and it is equally difficult to see how she could recover from these symptoms. With all that said, the stories you and others have shared have provided us hope!

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope her recovery continues! Take care

[@jclackston813]

any update?

[@susansempf5709]

How sad that you couldn’t go to your regular vet ! My Casper went through the same thing .I thought he had a stroke , it looked so bad .My vet was reassuring and supportive .She gave him anti nausea shot and pills , did some blood work and sent him home with me . Casper,s case maybe not so bad . He recovered within 72 hours ! Glad your buddy is feeling better !

[@allisonc9645]

still doing well?

[@plecates]

My Chi is only 3.5 yrs old and experiencing the same type symptoms. It’s been a week. I been to 2 vets and they don’t know what’s wrong. Now he’s been referred to a neurologist. We have an appt to go there on 9/11. He’s too young for this. It’s so heartbreaking to watch him. He is eating/drinking fine. Just walks around with a head tilt. Stiffens up when you pick him up, leans whole body to one side and legs start flaring if he goes to far over on his back. Heartbreaking to see him like this.

[@bridget9844]

Thank you for this video. We just got back from the vet today. I rushed my dog to an emergency appointment. I was terrified that she had experienced a stroke or brain injury since I had never heard of Vestibular syndrome before. She is an English Springer Spaniel, turning 13 in a few days. She vomited yellow bile, was staggering, falling down, and her eyes were rapidly moving side to side. She is now on an antibiotic for an inner ear infection, a nausea/dizziness med, and we go back for follow-up in 2 weeks. I am praying that she recovers and this video made me very hopeful. Thank you so much for sharing!!

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she bounces back quickly. Here are some other videos about this condition you may find helpful - kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6vUZ41potV4fq8

[@cheripatrick4192]

Going thru it now! Super scared. This is encouraging. My Riley is 13. Emergency er gave him nausea medication in a shot. She noticed his right ear looked blocked. Couldn’t see in and is hopefully it is caused by inner ear infection/burst ear drum. Put him on ear drops to clear infection. Wouldn’t eat today and puked twice. Praying ear infection has caused this.

[@nathanbritt7977]

Wish I had seen this before my vet charged 900 $ to tell me less that you did, would still have gone to vet but this was much more informative. THANKS

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope your dog bounces back quickly

[@poonamkh7766]

Thank you so much for this video. My eldest daughter is currently undergoing this sad experience. 💔 I am also not giving up on her. Thanks again for reboosting my morale.

[@broadwayfamily8715]

my daschund is 14 yo and she just have it like 3 days ago. cant walk. just sit and look very confused. lost the balance and not able to walk. thank God we didn't make any rush decision. she stand up today . and able to pee and poo. and walk a step by step.. right now she still have some problem walking. but each stand is like 10% better. right now we continue to help her. and believe she can recover

[@OurPetsHealth]

so this is a huge issue in daschunds - kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6GQc5KZZsx7ask

[@solop.thomas361]

THis is Whipsnap and I wanted to thank you for sharing your experience and story! Delighted in the name of Jesus that your dog outcome was favorable!

[@sosheungim2560]

Thank you very much for your sharing! I am lucky that my daughter found this video! Our 13 almost 14 years old poodle was exactly like yours am scared me like hell!

[@mckensiemiller9203]

My dog is also a 13 year old poodle who I think may have Vestibular Disease, did your dog have rapid eye movement? Mine is not displaying that symptom but seems to have most of the others. Also, how long did it take your pup to improve?

[@caliguess]

These videos are so helpful. I’ve been dog sitting my moms 18 y/o poodle who suddenly came down with this. I thought it was some form of separation anxiety but After a vet visit I believe it’s this. It’s been 72 hours of constant care. It’s so hard to watch, and he yelps and barks randomly… The vet gave him Cerenia pills so hopefully he recovers with time and care . It’s so draining and hard to experience. I feel like I can’t even leave my house

[@silveraddict875]

How long did it take for your dog recovery?

[@c.m.redhouse7667]

On February 17, our 13 year old dog suddenly started walking awkward, losing balance, and eyes rolling. He was able to walk near normal with a slight off balance, but we still took him to an 24 hour emergency vet (in case it was a stroke) and was diagnosed with vestibular disease. He was given some motion sickness medication, nothing more (no overnight care). We were told his condition could improve in the next 10 days. Over the next several days and on into several weeks, his head tilt improved BUT not completely. He still has a tilt of up to a 45 degree, depending on what he's doing. He seemed to have come out of this experience with a labored breathing (hard, deep breathing) during walks, during times of excitement, during times of uneasiness, etc. But everything seems back to normal. On June 2 (this morning), he was through another episode of losing balance, eyes rolling, and a minute of walking awkward. His head seems a bit more tilted afterwards and eyes not completely equal (one eye is straight while the other eye is slightly to the left). He is walking fine, eating (he has a big appetite), and able to jump up onto the bed. My question for anyone (dog owners and vets)....Does the Vestibular Disease (eposide) come back (repeat at a later time)? Or is it supposed to be a "one-time" episode? Only because, I thought it was a once in a lifetime occurrence for my dog...yet it happened again after 4 1/2 months later. ALSO, any dog owners experimented with CBD oil in calming dogs?...because my dog seemed to have come out of the first episode with a laboring breathing when he's uneasy, fearful situation...when his brain is communicating that his orientations are off.

[@Whizzywelsh_Eventing]

Thank you so much for this video. This has saved my family so much heart ache!! I really hope that more awareness is raised about this condition, because we could have made the most awful mistake. Xxx

[@OurPetsHealth]

So pleased to hear it helped your family. Share and spread the word!

[@alicepearsall7041]

Dan your video was really wonderful as I am retired. and on A fixed income. I wasn't sure what was going on? I have done all the things you suggested. If it doesn't seem that he is getting better soon and get help from our human society. So again thank you for all your help. Alison Pearsall

[@kf1683]

My dog was at the vets last week. Got a blood test done and prescribed pain meds and anti inflammatory. He’s 13 year old chihuahua mix so we think he injured himself jumping off the furniture. He was back to himself for 2 days. Just last night after the potty walk his eyes are in rapid movement, head tilt, can’t stand or walk, loss his appetite (luckily we already have those hunger meds from the last visit) and vomited twice. My mom gave us a laundry basket with a cozy blanket. Home made dog stretcher. He seems to be enjoying it. The worst part is he has severe separation anxiety so I can’t leave his sight. My heart is breaking for him.

[@kathy2664]

I'm going through this with my 12 1/2 yo Golden Retriever. A trip to the vet in the morning and I'm hoping and praying that he recovers quickly.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope you get some good news at the vet. You might find this video helpful once you're back: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIO1Y6Soa6iYlck

[@hanorabrennan8846]

Any update on the vet's visit?

[@kkkkkkkkkkk2322]

I’m going through this right now with my 7 yr old Maltese. Our vet referred us to a neurologist and that is very expensive. My dog is eating and drinking but she is falling over and her front 2 legs are very weak. I thank you for this video because it’s very emotional and I just want her to get better.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope you start to see some good improvement soon

[@porshasharp6893]

My Maltese is going through it now and all I can do is cry

[@jenniferm.3453]

Thank you so much for the boost of hope for my dog to get better... i have a fourteen year old Maltese and today is her second day with vertigo, it has made our whole family extremely worried and in terror... i pray that she gets better soon just like your beautiful dog did as well🙂

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she recovers soon

[@jenniferm.3453]

Thank you!

[@craigasher5970]

Thanks for sharing. On day four now. She’s seems much better but no quite fully recovered. The day it happened I was sure she was dying. It was horrible. Glad your pup is doing better!

[@shanitaharrison8831]

So glad i found this ! Our dog is experiencing this now! Our vet friend told us that’s what it sounded like and to wait it out before rushing to the vet. Praying things turn around cause we would hate to lose her but she is 16 so she has lived a full life

[@henryburner]

My Jack Russell Terrier got this very suddenly. We thought it was a stroke but the vet told us on the phone to wait for improvements for a few days. On the 2nd day we could lift him out for a short wobbly walk and on the 3rd day he could go for himself. After 2 weeks he was pretty much back to normal other than a slight headtilt and somewhat bad balance but he seemed happy and functioned well.

[@leonoraguzman1839]

My 16 yo fox terrier is having an episode of that now. It’s horrible... breaks my heart. We went to the emergency room, he was there all day but we were able to bring him home. Thanks for making this video! It gives me peace to see other babies recovered🙌🏽

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he's recovering OK

[@hopenickeson6890]

My 13 year old Carl just started getting these symptoms 5 days ago. No improvement yet, but appreciate you making this video it gives me hope! Like others have commented, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye… hoping to see some improvement soon. It looks so uncomfortable, I hate seeing him distressed and not being able to help except for extra cuddles! Hoping we are on an upward slope!

[@damocles2945]

How long did it take

[@sidvincent7545]

Did he improve? My dog is on day 1 and this is heartbreaking to watch her go through

[@loricerqua7860]

Thank you so much for your story. My 15 year old Morkie is having really bad symptoms and I pray she will okay. Your story has given me hope.

[@christinewolf4611]

Thank you Dan, I feel much better but still worried. My dog started with the symtoms 2 nights ago and fell over on her side when she tried to get up. Eventually she was abel to stand and walk so I thought it might be arthritis. But yesterday it happened again and she kept her head tilted and she would shake her head and stumble but went for our walk and she seemed normal. Last night she was walking all around like she was looking for me and panting. I held her in my lap and she seemed content then. She is a 14 yr old shih tzu. This morning she was worse. Glassy eyed and wouldn't walk on her leash. She kept pulling away to the side instead of walking straight and didn't really want to walk. She did pee outside but wanted to go right back in and just kept walking around looking for me. Almost like she couldn't see me. I took her right to the vet as soon as they opened and the vet saw her jerky eye movements and suspected Vestibular Syndrome right away but drew blood to rule out other possibilities. The vet kept her there to administer fluids and antibiotics and wants me to call back later today to see if she is responding to treatments or if they will keep her overnight. I am hoping she responds to the treatment and that there is nothing else causing this. Now I know that if it is Vestibular Syndrome there is hope she will be back to normal in time. I can wait. Thank you again.

[@vammekopinion6044]

My girl is 14 years old, I've never experienced or seen this behavior in a dog before. Thank you for the vitale information, for I too almost made the wrong decision for my beloved pet. Bearing in mind I wanted to spare her suffering. My only addition to this blog is that I've fed her tuna fish, sardines,cooked chop meat and chicken. My belief is the high protein and fish oil (omega 3's) helped stimulate her drinking and over rode her nausea. This is day 4 for us, here is hoping this will pass.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she gets through it soon too! Take care + fingers crossed for your girl

[@JoshuaSmith-lh8wk]

Kathleen- How is the progress going? We are on day 4 here. Her eyes stopped 'ticking' today and she can support her own weight standing, but she still will not get up on her own and cannot walk. Hoping for the best for your companion!

[@Alphaphotographer]

My 3 year old dog has this. I initially thought it was a neurological disorder. Severe nausea from dizziness. Two vet visits where he was given attn. I fed him human meat baby food with a syringe, and syringed Pedialyte. He had the head tilt for 3 weeks, but now seems like nothing was ever wrong.

[@OurPetsHealth]

great to hear he recovered so well!

[@pamelawomack-canon5824]

Thank you! I just came from the vet with my 13 y/o American Cocker Spaniel today!

[@jennyemm2477]

I’m so glad I found this video. This started happening to my 13 year old lab last night. Of course I went into panic as she couldn’t even stand up so my immediate thought was that we were going to lose my baby. We took her to the vet and they told me she could either have this disease or a brain tumor. She’s still being tested and I’m praying that it is only vestibular disease and not the tumor and I feel so much better after seeing this video. Thank you so much for putting my mind at ease.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she gets better soon. You might find this video also helps kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIO1Y6Soa6iYlck

[@jclackston813]

any update?

[@crazydoglady5]

Jenn, any update on this? I was told the same today.

[@LNRansom]

Thank you for this, it gives me hope. Got up this morning to find my dog on the floor unable to get up. He has had a steroid injection and anti nausea injections at the vet but I'm nursing him at home, syringing water into him regularly as he can't get up yet. He is very nervous and would not cope being kept at the vet surgery. He seems brighter already so hopefuly he will be one of the lucky ones to make a speedy recovery.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Great he's brighter already. I'm sure you're doing a great job but this video might give you a few extra home care tips - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIO1Y6Soa6iYlck hope he's back to normal very soon

[@treesattwilight]

Thank you so much. My old husky girl is spending 24-hours at the hospital after coming down with this yesterday evening. I hate seeing her like this, but I'm glad to know there is hope.

[@julivillalta]

Thank you so much for posting this. My dog who is I think maybe about 11 years old? She got vestibular on a Wednesday and I was on the East Coast so she was with my dog sitter on the West Coast when I received the phone call that she appeared to not be doing very well. She had all the symptoms tilted head, loss of balance, vomiting. I was so afraid that she was approaching end of life that I nearly flew out that night, but I was due back the following day early in the morning so I let my Dog sitter know that if she needed to she could take her to urgent care and that I would be back the following day. Four days later and she is walking she’s eating, she’s got that little head tilt, but she appears to be doing well. I had to leave two days after she had first showed symptoms to run an errand and when I came back, she wasn’t where I put her and I started to panic so I looked all over the house for her and she was in one of the bedrooms, so she managed to get up and walk and find her way to her favorite little spot. That gave me a sense of ease. If your dog is going through this, please don’t be too afraid. I spent the whole night crying in my hotel room thinking that I was going to have to put her down. Within the last year and a half I’d already lost two senior dogs, one that I had for 15 years and another than I had for seven who is a rescue, but was approaching the end of her life. I love my dog so very much and I don’t even wanna think about anything bad happening to her. She was recently diagnosed with a heart murmur so I guess you can say that my last few visits to the vet have left me in the state of dread thinking that whatever the issue is, it’s not gonna be good news. But if it is vestibular, the chances are really good that they will recover. I appreciated what the young man on the video said about giving it just a little bit more time to see if his puppy pulled through and seeing that after only a few days, the puppy was able to stand up and eat. I did a lot of praying for my dog and I had other people pray for her too, while I was on the East Coast. She’s with me right now we’re laying on the couch together and I’m just giving her an extra dose of love as the days pass. so thank you so much for this video.

[@j-bird5951]

Thank you so very much, I am just today dealing with this very problem. It was such a scare and wonderful people like you have given us understanding and hope for our dear friend. Thank you so very much.

[@cinemalover8699]

Thank you. My 10 year old pug Max stayed the night at the vet's office last night. You have given me hope for my Max

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope Max recovers quickly!

[@cinemalover8699]

@@OurPetsHealth Thank you. He is already on the road to recovery.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Fantastic!

[@mrpipe6472]

Thank you for tell us your story. I’m into this for 2 nights and I was thinking the worse. My princess is 15 years old and it’s not easy to go for a RMI because of sedation. So everything that we can do for now is about meds and a good care. Listening you talking fill us with hope. Again, thank you very much.

[@misty-ym9ht]

My dog is 20 & all we have is each other...the symptoms you've described are identical and came out of nowhere! It's day 4 & he finally drank some regular water. I had to Make his food for the 1st few days and then I had bought him some soft food, and added broth. I did this day 3&4. He was definitely disoriented and I was terrified! It's like he didn't know me all! Today is day 5& he's eating and drinking, still doesn't seem like he can see. It's just been touch and go. TLC is the only answer that's been working...thank you for sharing

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he recovers soon

[@peterminiutti9553]

I wish I had watched this when our dog suffered this condition. He is fine now, but there were a few days when we thought he may not be coming home. Our story is exactly the same as this so if your dog develops this condition just give them time and generally they will come good.

[@kevinward9105]

Going through the same symptoms now very encouraging news thank you so much for your video🙏

[@elizabethunderwood8244]

Our dog 10 years old and diabetic hound lab mix just got diagnosed with this possibility last night at the ER. It was thanksgiving so we didn’t have many options. Blood work came back fine but they don’t know why it happened. Head tilt, eyes moving horizontally, dizzy, trouble walking. We are at the 24 hour mark as of now and it’s so scary and heartbreaking. We are heading to our usual vet in the morning to see if there’s anything else we can do. Praying for a quick recovery and more ❤

[@ClareLightfoot]

Thanks for this reassuring video and words of encouragement. My 15+ year Tibetan terrier is going through this since yesterday. It's terrifying. I rushed him to the pet hospital thinking he had a stroke and I was losing him. Hoping he starts to improve soon as Buddy did.

[@sheriwood6896]

Thanks so much for sharing your story. I have been on a roller coaster today wondering if I will have to put my 15 year old dog to sleep. Your video gives me hope.

[@cherylmessina9284]

Thank you for this video. I am 36 hours into this and it's terrifying!! Timothy is a 11 year old Westie x poodle and this just came out of the blue. I feel in shock and am desperate to help him. Thanks for the encouragement, because I was thinking of pts, just because I don't want him to suffer - it's traumatic to watch and I can't help. But I will push on after this!! Thanks again

[@joyhansen]

Hope everything went ok for you. I'm 8 days in on this..

[@neocampbell9045]

I have a Husky Shepherd mix and he was born with something wrong. The vets here have never gave me a diagnoses. I'm pretty sure they don't know what it is. I bottle fed him from 7 days old. He couldn't walk when the other pups could. He seemed blind and kept his head tilted back in hyperextended way. He has head tremors and leg tremors. He hops instead of runs. He falls a lot. Hes so sweet and my child and I would do anything to help him if I knew the problem. He is now almost 2 years old and has trouble walking but isn't blind. He falls backward when pooping. His hind legs shake when he pees. The hind legs are most affected.

[@lisaowens2523]

Thank you for sharing your story. Yesterday our 14 year old dog was exhibiting these same symptoms and after an overnight at the vet, he has not improved. This has given me hope that with time and proper care, we can get through this.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he's on the road to recovery soon. I've got a comprehensive guide to this condition with more videos here - ourpetshealth.com/info/vestibular-disease-in-dogs

[@jorgeviera7897]

Thank you Dan I’m going thru that right now I took him to the vet yesterday I feared the worst, it broke my heart cuz Charlie means so much to me Thank you for the hope

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope Charlie is soon on the mend

[@tpcdnme]

My 13.5 year old schnauzer is dealing with this now and this makes me feel so much better. Thank you for sharing this!

[@karencomtois4114]

bbmarie my pug is 12 and we are dealing with this right now as well. How are u doing with? How many days in are u ?

[@tpcdnme]

@@karencomtois4114 he came out of it quickly and he is doing well. His didn’t last for days like some do. Wishing you all the best!

[@beergrills8155]

My 14 year old collie had this 4 weeks ago, only lasted a night then better, but had another turn weeks later, took to vet no ear infection, gave us antibiotics and steroids, two days on feet but unsteady on feet..now 90% back to normal.

[@yvettek374]

Oh my goodness. Dan, thank you so much, this video has allowed me to relax a little after a very distressing day. Thank you so much for sharing your story, I honestly don’t know what I would have done without watching this. We had an episode and then another three days later which is lasting some time. The Vet was really stressing me out and preparing me for the worst (brain tumour). I am now hoping that 13yr old Iggy is just as lucky as Buddy and that we get to share some further precious time together. Thank you.

[@kenknoepfel168]

Our 13 year old Boston Terrier Oreo presented symptoms yesterday. She tripped and fell and started rolling around in the grass like she was drunk. My wife thought she might have injured her self. I noticed the head tilt and took her to the vet this morning suspecting vertigo from an ear infection due to inability to shake her ears. The vet ruled out an infection and mentioned this disease and gave her a steroid. Told me to come back after the weekend for a follow up. Before we went to the vet, I was thinking the worst. After seeing these videos I feel much more educated. Thank you for the information.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope she recovers soon

[@TheGraham3]

I’m dealing with this right now, he’s a small poodle mix. This happened yesterday, not much better today. The vet thinks it Vestibular Disease. He is 15 and has a collapsed trachea and an enlarged heart. He is doing well on his medication then this happened. I’m encouraged by your video, and hopefully he recovers like Buddy did.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he's recovering now

[@lisacanavan5378]

I have just spent the night worried and crying after my 17 1/2 year old Jack Russell had all these symptoms starting to happen to her late at night. I researched them on the internet and Vestibular Disease was the most likely cause. We took her to the vet first thing this morning and this is what they diagnosed her with.We decided to nurse her at home as she would be more comfortable and relaxed than stuck in a strange environment with people she didn't know. Although, the vet did liken it to a stroke which I thought strange as it seems to be more like vertigo. We are hoping she recovers well as we love her so much. It is really distressing to watch.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Fingers crossed she recovers quickly

[@hanorabrennan8846]

You seem to really care about animals and people. Thank you for all you do.

[@krisbridge2821]

Thank you for this video. My 13 year old springer is just recovering from idiopathic vestibular disease. It is the scariest thing I have ever witnessed; it happened so quickly and I thought we were going to lose her. It is now day 5, she is far more stable, her nystagmus has stopped, she can climb up and down the stairs and was able to go to the park today for a run! There is light at the end of the tunnel!

[@terryrohde281]

Our Springer is 13.5 yrs old and she started the symptoms 3 days ago. We took her to the Vet and they said, yeah, it could be this, but it could be that. So, she has been improving after the 1st night gradually. She was walking better the next morning and drinking water. This morning I hand fed her chicken and last night she jumped up on the couch. Little victories and thanks for this video.

[@DanaGoodson-p8c]

thanks for sharing your story I am going through it with my dog right now. She won't eat. This is day 4 - she is at the vet right now getting fluids, blookwork and x-ray

[@rosedawnturner5756]

I’m interested in knowing what vitamins and supplements were given.

[@nerdgnostic]

Thanks for sharing this story! My 10 year old corgi started with symptoms like this this morning. He’s staying overnight at the vet now, and it’s really reassuring to hear this story.

[@OurPetsHealth]

hope he recovers quickly. you might find these videos helpful too - kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6vUZ41potV4fq8

[@hilarydorricott2728]

This has been so supportive since my almost 14 year old pug Tina is going through this right now. Thanks.

[@OurPetsHealth]

Hope Tina's doing well

[@baileefoster9000]

My 16 yrs old collie mix has this disease now thank you for the information. I'm feeling very hopeful!

[@veronicacanas1405]

Hello My dog Butters is 7 yrs old for the past 7 days he has been stumbling, leaning on the wall or furniture, dragging his feet and has a wide stance. The first 2 days his body became stiff and one hind leg started shaking so I took him to the E.R. and they gave him anti seizure meds. I have been giving him the meds and he still seems the same. Now that I have seen ye video I'm gonna call the vet tomorrow

[@almaiz6177]

This just happened to us for first time tonight. sitting in the 24hr vet right now in the waiting room at 1230 in the morning. American bulldog 90lbs, 12 yrs old. Very rapid eye movement , disoriented . Doc is saying all the same things but I’m worried she’ll be stuck like this or something , could be 2 days or 3 weeks! This video helped me thank you

[@lebreab114]

It’s so scary 😟 my 13 year old spaniel-collie girl Kerry had a first episode 6 weeks ago. I immediately took her to the vet who diagnosed mini stroke and put her on Vitofyllin and anti inflammatory tablets. She got better slowly. Then 2 days ago she had another episode. I contacted my other vet who immediately said vestibular disease. It’s so distressing but I’m glad it’s not strokes.

[@amandamccollister7373]

Thank you so much! I was going to have him put down but he is up and walking around. My dog is 17 years old.I'm waiting it out. Thanks so much again for all this information. God bless you for the video's.

[@amybeaver6912]

I think my old boy Billy of 15 years is currently suffering from this. He went to the vet's this morning and they gave him an antiinflammatory injection. We are nearing 36 hours of the symptoms first starting. Im hoping to see some signs of improvement in the next few days. The video has really helped as its just awful to watch my boy going through this. I feel so helpless ☹

[@OurPetsHealth]

Hope he feels better soon. This video might help some more kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIO1Y6Soa6iYlck

[@JillianLeia]

Thank you too. It’s been so stressful. He fits all symptoms. Thank goodness he’s been eating and drinking.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he's soon on the road to recovery

[@rueroyale6]

My 14 year old collie may have a mild form of this . She lost balance and fell down a couple of times after waking up in the morning ,she doesn't have any signs of rapid eye movement or head tilting and there is no vomiting , she eats and drinks normally and she is still able to go outside to relieve herself , she's had a few episodes of wobbliness but nothing as severe as the first morning . I think I will wait and see how she progresses before I rush her to the Vet..thank you for your video it has put my mind at ease thinking the worst was to come

[@bbreakout]

This is exactly what is happening with my dog right now. Can you give me an update on your experience?

[@2ndglance]

Thank you both humans for sharing. I feel so much better now. I don't have the money for treatments my fur baby was re-homed when I got her over 13 yrs ago. I'm not sure if she is 14, or 15 but I do know I LOVE her. Your video gives me hope 🌈

[@2ndglance]

Also Thanks😊 Buddy

[@mssdn8976]

My 13 year old spaniel has the same, just started yesterday. Eyes twitching side to side, unbalanced and each episode lasting about 10 minutes, then he seems to go back to normal. I hope we have a recovery as you did. Thank you for making the video

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope he's back to normal before long. These other videos might also help you kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6vUZ41potV4fq8

[@christiennedobson403]

Really appreciate your story. We are currently going through vestibular disease with our dog for the first time and it was really scary and it’s been quite emotional. Knowing that it will get better has been a great help. Thanks!

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope your dogs recovery is going OK

[@jcstevegigs]

Thanks for sharing - I'm on day 3 with my 13 year Shiba - very scary to watch when first happening. My vet took me right in and knew immediately what it was. I see slight improvement already - hoping the next days he breaks through and we can put it behind us.

[@chromesurf9]

Thank you for sharing this experience! Super valuable, and helping me to calm down!

[@DeborahHasanov]

Very helpful. Exact symptoms my 15 year old beagle is exhibiting. Seeing his vet in the morning.

[@jocelynchaplin901]

My dog Carl who is a 15 year old Mini Dachshund was just diagnosed with this yesterday. We are officially on day 3 and he is showing some signs of improvement. I am hopeful that he can make a full recovery :) Thank you for sharing your personal experience on this.

[@OurPetsHealth]

I hope Carl is well recovered now