Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 10/3/2010

Question
3 days ago my 11 yr old female Yorkie became sick. She threw
up for 2 days and then yesterday she became disoriented and
would walk around the house aimlessly.  She woke up this
morning wet with sweat. She has walked into corners.  Seems
to have vertigo.  No appetite and no response to commands.  
She is lifeless at times and can fall asleep in just a few
seconds.  She has been in good health and we walk her
everyday. She eats normal dog food, no table scraps.
Took to vet today and her vital signs were good.  The vet
gave her shot "SQ" fluids 100mg and a venipuncture.
Do you have any advice?


Answer
At her age, she may have a middle or inner ear problem.  I would have the dog evaluated for inner ear problems.  Some old dogs with idiopathic vestibular disease will recover with treatment consisting of some corticosteroids and meclizine.  Ask your vet about that.