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My old dog can't walk, seems like a stroke. How to make comfortable?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 15 years and 5 months old | 30 lbs

Dog at home 15yrs old has all symptoms of stroke...can't walk...did eat piece of cheese need to know how to make comfortable

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2017

What you are describing could be vestibular disease, where the dog's balance system is off. This condition is more common than strokes in dogs. Recommend you keep your dog in a confined area as well padded so they cannot get pressure sores, be prepared to help them stand up to urinate as well as turn from side to side at least every 4 to 6 hours, hand offer food and water if they're able to eat and monitor for any worsening of the condition. For a true diagnosis your dog needs be seen by veterinarian.

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4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Without knowing the symptoms it is impossible to give any specific advice. Strokes are extremely rare in dogs hut vestibular disease (loss of balance, rapid eye movement and nausea) are quite common. Maintaining fluid and food intake is helpful and your vet cn prescribe antinausea and antiinflammatory medications, drops are required if unable or unwilling to swallow. A heart check ul is also recommended to rule out issues which may generate clots.

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 2nd, 2017

    Without knowing the symptoms it is impossible to give any specific advice. Strokes are extremely rare in dogs hut vestibular disease (loss of balance, rapid eye movement and nausea) are quite common. Maintaining fluid and food intake is helpful and your vet cn prescribe antinausea and antiinflammatory medications, drops are required if unable or unwilling to swallow. A heart check ul is also recommended to rule out issues which may generate clots

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 29th, 2018

    I'm sorry you and Foxy are going through this. I would be concerned about a brain tumor, a stroke, OR something called Old Dog Vestibular disease, which usually corrects on it's own after a few weeks. I would recommend a follow up visit at this point to talk about treatment options.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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