Do dogs have strokes?
“Strokes” or cerebral vascular accidents (CVA) are rare in dogs. A stroke is defined as a sudden interruption in blood supply to any part of the brain. Anything that can block an artery supplying the brain can cause a stroke. Some common causes include a blood clot such as a thrombus or embolus that lodges in a cerebral blood vessel. This is also known as an embolism. Cerebral bleeding from trauma or as a result of thrombocytopenia or low blood platelet count can also cause strokes. The cause of most strokes is unknown. Most strokes occur in dogs over three years old, but young dogs may also be victims. The signs of a stroke are variable depending on a number of factors. There may be sudden collapse or simply disorientation. A calm, relaxed dog may become vicious and vice versa. There may be loss of bladder and bowel habits, and loss of owner recognition. Any abrupt change in a dog’s behavior is reason to have it examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.