Hi, my name is Katie and I am an adorable six month old Labrador. I'm glad to say that I reached my six month birthday because I had quite a scare when I was only four months old.

Quite suddenly one day I started swaying and losing vision. My mom drove me over to the Caseville Small Animal Clinic as quick as she could. My pupils were dilated and I was so weak I couldn't even stand up. Dr. Hooper gave me fluids right away and a thorough examination. My symptoms suggested encephalitis or meningitis. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain and meningitis is inflammation of the spinal cord. Both of the conditions can cause seizures, blindness, lack of coordination, head tilt, and facial paralysis, amongst other things. To definitively diagnose either condition would include CT or MRI scans and spinal fluid testing. Both diagnostics are not easily accessible and very costly. When symptoms are highly suggestive of these conditions we are given supportive care like fluids and steroids which can lessen the swelling. Testing may not be necessary as was my case. After a few days of fluids and steroid therapy I was like a new puppy again.

What causes these conditions? Some causes are not known. However, bacteria, viruses such as distemper and rabies, parasites, fungi, mosquitoes, and ticks spread diseases that cause encephalitis and meningitis. Our warm, wet summer has caused an influx of mosquitoes and ticks in Huron County. Ticks can spread Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichia, and Lymes disease which can in turn cause this swelling of the brain and spinal fluid. Dr. Kevin and Dr. Hooper strongly urge everyone to put their pet on flea and tick prevention. Not only does this protect your beloved pet, but it protects you and your family. Encephalitis and meningitis are just as dangerous in humans. Thankfully I was given prompt quality treatment and am alive to tell my story to you.