Signs of head trauma in small dogs
A quick look at their pupils is often enough to diagnose a traumatic brain injury.
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It’s impossible to say whether that’s true, but they offer a window into your dog’s health. They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. Some dogs love to doze, but watch out if a spry dog suddenly prefers nap time to playtime. Sleepiness may also indicate recent head trauma. Though there are several conditions that can cause nausea and an unsteady gait, the combination often points to a concussion. Other symptoms include vomiting and difficulty standing up. Is your pet more lethargic than usual? Have they suddenly become disinterested in their favorite toys or unenthusiastic about their meals? All of this may suggest they’ve suffered a head injury and are struggling with a concussion. As with humans, one of the most obvious dog concussion symptoms is decreased activity. There are many signs of concussion in dogs to watch out for. As such, it’s important to look out for telltale signs and symptoms to lead the way to a speedy diagnosis and effective treatment. Owners aren’t always there to witness the events that lead to concussions. Concussions in puppies typically occur when a dog is dropped or during rough play with family members or larger animals. A boisterous pooch can give themselves a concussion just by roughhousing with fellow pets or unexpectedly colliding with a wall. Everyday antics, however, can also take a turn for the worse and lead to injuries. Car accidents tend to be the primary culprit. Remember, a smaller brain doesn’t mean your dog is any less vulnerable to concussions The causes of concussion in dogsĪs with humans, head trauma is the common cause of concussion in dogs. The human brain-to-body ratio is about 1:40, while its around 1:125 for dogs. This can turn a minor injury into a life-changing or even deadly one.Ĭompared to the size of their bodies, dogs have smaller brains than humans. As with people, an untreated head injury can lead to swelling of the brain and internal bleeding. It’s important to seek out treatment as quickly as possible if you notice any signs of a concussion in your dog. In most cases, dogs recover from a concussion, but their prognosis depends on the extent of the injury and any complications that arise afterward. Nonetheless, they’re still prone to head injuries.
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Many canine breeds are pretty robust, with even thicker, more protective skulls than the average human. What is a canine concussion?Ī concussion is a common, sometimes serious, brain injury that occurs when a sudden blow or jolt causes the head and brain to move or change direction dangerously fast. Unlike human beings, however, dogs can’t communicate when they’ve suffered a bump to the head or when they’re feeling unwell.Ĭoncussions can be caused by anything from a car accident to a collision in the yard so responsible dog owners must recognize risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures. Yes, our pups are just as susceptible to traumatic brain injuries as we are.