Hydrocephalus in dogs
I wasn’t sure if I should write about this, since I’m mad, aggravated and sad at the same time. I’m also fairly private, there are certain personal things I just don’t talk about. I like to keep the office upbeat, healthy and fun. But Loka has become such a big part of the office, so sharing her story may be something people want to know. Why is she so short; is she really a full breed; why does she walk in circles; why does she look sad … these are some of the questions people ask. And it’s followed by commenting about how calm she is, or how good she is, and of course how cute she is.
I’ve noticed these things myself, and my gut felt that things were just not right. So we visited a few vets, a doggie physical therapist, and finally were referred to a neurologist. And the diagnosis is hydrocephalus, and if you google it, she has all the symptoms (the pacing, the dwarf look, the weak back end, the wide-set eyes & vision issues, the big head…). It’s spot on.
Hydrocephalus is basically swelling on the brain, there is an excess of cerebral spinal fluid and it causes pressure on the brain. It is congenital, most likely from some antibiotics her mother was given while pregnant (and no, there’s not much I can do about that at this point). There was no MRI or CT Scan, just the diagnosis based on her symptoms. Hydrocephalus in Golden Retrievers is very rare, is most often found in small breeds, so I suppose there is a chance that’s not what she has, but it does explain a lot if so.
What does this mean for Loka? Well, perhaps she has headaches, maybe that’s why she’s so calm, I really don’t know. Perhaps she paces in circles because she’s uncomfortable or nervous. Perhaps she doesn’t retrieve the ball because training and learning is impaired by this, she doesn’t know how to do it, it doesn’t come naturally. She may be in pain, she may not be. I wish I knew, but I don’t. It’s not nearly bad enough for surgery or medications. Some dogs end up with seizures and then medications are the next step.
In the meantime, I’m praying that the seizures never happen, I’ll continue to adjust her, massage her head, feed her a mostly raw food diet, give MCT oil supplement, probiotics, a general dog supplement, and brain support from Standard Process. I’ll do whatever I can to create the healthiest version of her. She can live a normal lifespan, and maybe she won’t. We don’t know. But I’ll do what it takes to help create the healthiest her and the happiest her.
Whether it’s an animal or human, we should always strive to create the healthiest life possible. Adjustments, proper nutrition, exercise, prayer and plenty of sleep are key. So, whether it’s you, your kids or your pets – focus on creating health. Chiropractic care goes a long way towards that, whether it’s in people or animals.
And Loka will take all the belly rubs, love, and prayers you can offer.