Concussions are a common occurrence in humans, but have you ever heard of a dog suffering from one? Well, dogs can get concussions, so it's important that dog owners know that, are aware of the symptoms, and understand what to do if they suspect their dog has one.
A concussion happens when something causes the brain to move back and forth rapidly inside the skull. Brain cells are damaged, which can result in lots of different neurological signs.
The most common cause of concussion in dogs is head trauma. The following situations are all potential causes of a concussion that you should watch out for:
Any time your dog receives a blow to the head, he might get a concussion.
Small, young dogs with open fontanelles (space where the skull hasn't grown together yet) are at higher risk of concussion than other dogs.
Look for these signs that might indicate your dog has suffered a concussion. Head to the vet right away if you notice any of them.
Most of these signs can indicate other medical conditions as well, but they are all serious and require a vet visit.
Treatment of a concussion in a dog depends on its extent. Sometimes, a mild concussion will resolve on its own with only rest and observation. If severe brain swelling occurs, which can happen up to around 24 hours after the initial injury, more aggressive intervention might be necessary. This can include some or all of the following:
Additionally, the dog might have other injuries from the same incident that caused the concussion. Those injuries might require other medical or surgical interventions.
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