Not only can something upset a dog’s stomach, it can also upset its circulatory system.
As a result, the dog suffers a seizure.
Which There are symptoms of weakness in the dog and how you can recognize this is explained in the following guide.
Symptoms of dizzy spells in dogs: what are the typical signs?
One of the first signs you can use to spot a dog feeling dizzy is weakness. This can from trembling and tumbling to be accompanied.
A dog whose circulation has failed is also apathetic. Shallow, rapid breathing is also one of the symptoms of a dizzy spell in dogs.
Now let’s take a look at what’s behind these and some other signs of a dog feeling dizzy.
trembling and tumbling
Weakness, tremors and staggering are the first signs you can use to identify a dog with a dizzy spell.
A dizzy spell is not a full-fledged circulatory collapse. However, this is also due to the fact that the brain is not supplied with enough blood.
This then results in trembling and tumbling occurring as a reaction of the undersupplied nerves during the fainting attack.
apathy
Apathy or lethargy can also occur as one of the fainting symptoms in dogs.
Accompanying symptoms such as dizziness, combined with staggering and trembling, put a strain on the dog.
Because he also does not know what exactly is going on in his body, he is at a loss and exhausted. This can also be expressed by the fact that he first takes a nap.
Shallow, rapid breathing
Shallow, rapid breathing is also one of the symptoms of a dizzy spell in dogs that you can use to recognize it.
Once again, the temporarily restricted cardiac output plays a role. Because breathing is also affected by the blood undersupply.
Good to know
You can tell that the heart is behind this shallow breathing from the very pale mucous membranes, which may have already taken on a greyish tone.
Increased pulse & increased heartbeat
Of course, despite the fainting spell, the heart will try to pump as much blood as possible into the body.
Since this is also associated with exertion, the result is an increased heart rate and pulse.
But how do you know that your dog has an elevated heart rate? Simply by feeling it on the inside of your thighs, because that’s where you can see your pulse.
unconsciousness
If the dizzy spell has already turned into a circulatory collapse, your dog may lose consciousness.
A fainting is therefore another sign of a dizzy spell in the dog.
body temperature drops
If the dog suffers from an undersupply of blood, this often leads to a drop in body temperature.
You can tell this by the fact that the legs and paws are cool to cold – a bit like us humans, where hands and feet can become blocks of ice.
When should I go to the vet and what treatment options are there for a dog suffering from a dizzy spell?
Do you recognize one of the symptoms mentioned as a fainting attack in the dog? Then it can’t hurt to call the vet at least once.
There is not always immediate cause for concern, because a dizzy spell can be a one-off event.
Also look at the big picture. Has your dog perhaps exhausted itself on a walk, which is why its circulation is out of balance?
Or has he not eaten or drunk for a long time, which may also have had a negative effect on his circulation?
If these initial situations are given, a visit to the veterinarian is not immediately necessary.
The situation is different if these bouts of weakness are repeated or even lead to a circulatory collapse, for example as a result of too much heat exposure.
You should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Because circulatory problems can always have a serious reason for illness.
This doesn’t just include heart problems. Other organic causes as well as poisoning can also contribute to the circulatory system overturning – and your dog too.
First aid
If you have found that your dog is suffering from massive circulatory problems, you can first provide first aid.
It is important that you talk to your fur nose in a calming manner and please do not panic yourself (which is easier said than done).
On the way to the vet, you should make sure that your dog is in the stable side position to avoid further circulatory problems.
Has his body temperature already dropped significantly? Then it makes sense to wrap your four-legged friend in a blanket.
Treatment
If your vet has diagnosed a circulatory collapse or a dizzy spell, he will first try to stabilize the circulatory system.
In addition, the dog can get infusions and oxygen is also a first means of getting the circulation going again.
In many cases, a blood test is also carried out. Finally, the exact cause of the dizzy spell must be found.
The further treatment or therapy is then based on the results. Depending on the disease, this can be counteracted with medication.
Has your dog ever had a dizzy spell? What was the cause, what helped? We’d love for you to share your tips with us in the comments!