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Dog overheated, sagging lip, wobbly head, not blinking. Bell's Palsy?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 9 months old | 100 lbs

My dog experience two separate episodes of being over heated with him loosing control to stand up and head wobbly from side to side. Got him cool down both times. Later noticed that his right side lower lip was sagging along with drool and notice he was not blinking his eyes. Took him to vet and they think he has Bell’s palsy symptom and or myasthenia Gravis. took blood work and waiting for results. They gave us animax ointment and prednisone for ear infections

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 22nd, 2019

Hello. We do see a Bell's Palsy type syndrome, most often referred to as idiopathic facial neuritis, in dogs. I would recommend checking Harley's thyroid levels as hypothyroidism will sometimes cause facial paralysis. Otitis or another inner ear conditions certainly can result is some facial paralysis, too. Sounds like your veterinarian is on the right tract trying to figure out Harley's problem. Hope he is doing better soon & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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