QUESTION

My dog has been diagnosed with the canine version of Bells Palsy. The righ hand side of his face is drooping. This happened a week a go and he was given an injection of an anit inflamatory and anitibiotic by the vet yesterday. Last night he had what appeared to be a fit. I have spoken to the vet and he has told me how to deal with this petite mal, but I am concerned about leaving him alon in case it happens then. Could you give me any advice? Thank You.

Sherrie

ANSWER

Dear Sherrie,
Interesting one. Bells Palsy is a facial nerve damage, with is not central in its location, but peripheral-in other words caused by damage to the side of the face/base of the ear, either from trauma or infection. Petit mal seizures would not be expected to follow, normally, so, maybe there is a focus of infection. it could be worth a bit of investigation-bloods/possible ear xrays, if there is a persistant problem. Also, if the petit mal is totally unassociated, then they are often one-offs, caused by mild stimulant, eg an infection-so, once treated, all should be well. Therapy for petit mals, in our practice, would depend on bloods/possibly xrays, and history. also, a lot of dogs will have the odd petit mal, and will be quite ok after.

James Haddow