Veterinary Help

Idiopathic vestibular disease is also referred to as old dog vestibular disease or geriatric vestibular syndrome because it is typically seen in older dogs. Clinical signs are acute in onset and are often described as a stroke. This is due to disruption of the peripheral vestibular system that controls balance.

Signs seen with this disease are consistent with those expected in other peripheral vestibular diseases - peripheral meaning not involving the brain but the vestibulocochlear nerve in the ear. Patients may be unable to stand, fall to one side, tilt the head to one side or have an abnormal flicking of the eyes called nystagmus.

Diagnostics involve ruling out other potential causes of peripheral vestibular disease that can be treated. The most common being middle or inner ear infection. This involves an otoscopic exam - in some cases anesthesia is required. X-rays of the skull may be indicated to evaluate the inner ear. Lab work is evaluated to rule out hypothyroidism as a possible cause.

Treatment is supportive as the clinical signs will typically resolve on their own over a few days to several weeks. Some patients are nauseated so anti-emetics are indicated in these cases. Intravenous fluids can be given if the patient will not eat.