My senior dog is circling, flinching, and unresponsive. What's wrong?

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Since Macho Man is walking in circles, I would be worried about a possible neurological issue. Especially if he is having urinary and fecal accidents in the house, I'm worried he either cannot control his bowel movement, or is unaware that they are happening. Circling (walking in circles) could be a sign of forebrain disease, meaning something is wrong in the front part of Macho Man's brain. Since he is older, there is a chance his signs could be due to something like a brain tumor. I recommend having Macho Man evaluated by either your veterinarian or a neurologist, if your veterinarian is not comfortable with neurologic exams. I hope this is helpful.

The signs that you describe with Cleo really worry me about something going on in her brain, such as a tumor. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. Take some videos of her behavior to show your veterinarian as well. Less likely but an inner ear infection may cause similar symptoms. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Hello, I am so sorry for your concerns about Doofy. This may not be a classic seizure, but this is definitely an indication of abnormal neurological behavior. She is an extremely old dog, so this would not be totally unexpected. It is very important to have Doofy seen as quickly as possible. She needs immediate care, otherwise she will literally walk herself to death. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, & I am very sorry that Doofy is not well. I hope you can help her as soon as you can. Take care.

Hello. Is the circling always in the same direction? Can you call her from the circling & stop the behavior? If not, this may be indicative of an inner ear infection, or more seriously, a brain lesion. You should have Snickers evaluated at your earliest convenience to diagnose the cause of this behavior. Once done, then the appropriate treatment can be initiated to help her to heal. Best to a speedy recovery & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I’m wondering if you’re dog might be showing signs of a neurologic problem. I would recommend checking in with the vet who performed an exam when the blood work was checked to see what they would recommend as the next step. Referral to a neurologist might be recommended, or they may have another thought as to what is causing these signs.

Hello. Any sudden change in behavior, especially in a senior pet, is worrisome. This may be a neurological problem, like early onset cognitive dysfunction, or the beginning of a loss of senses ( hearing, sight ) that may be causing his reaction. You really need to have Buster fully evaluated to see if there is a medical reason for this strange behavior, or if there is a medication, diet change, treatment or behavior modification that might help. I am sure if there is a need for any treatment, a method to get it into him will be found, or perhaps a consult with a behavioral specialist should be tried first. Hopefully, you can find a solution to his distress. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It could be vestibular disease, among other neurological conditions. Regardless, this warrants an evaluation by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They can diagnose this issue so that therapy can be started. Best of luck!