Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 9/20/2008

Question
George is about 11 yrs old, shepherd/collie. For the last couple of months he has bouts of something. He'll be happy and hungry then all of a sudden he's panting, unsteady on his feet, week and seems disoriented. He is a house dog and stays in the back yard only. There has been no chemicals on the lawn recently and occasionally (to my disgust)he'll catch a baby rabbit and gnaw on it but not recently. I very, very rarely give him any people food other than cooked eggs and raw carrots. At first I thought it might be the eggs. But after the last bout I haven't given him any. Last night and this morning he was running around the yard and had a good appetite but after breakfast he's been staggering around with his tongue hanging out. He pooped and peed this morning after I practically dragged him to the yard. (It was probably more like heavy duty encouragement) His shots are up to date. The last time I took him to the vet he didn't have heartworms but I may be a little behind on his monthly pills. About 45 days between.

Answer
Debra -

Have your pet examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.  His bouts of disorientation and unsteadiness are indication that he should be seen by a doctor; a vet can perform tests that can help diagnose his problem. Unfortunately, I am unable to help with the diagnosis without the benefit of a physical exam.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM