Another Name: Brain Inflammation

Disease Description: An inflammatory condition of the brain causing signs of central nervous system dysfunction and epilepsy (seizures). A unique form of encephalitis is prevalent in the pug breed and is called "Pug Dog Encephalitis."

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: Symptoms of encephalitis will depend on the area of the brain that is affected. Typical signs include:Fever;Seizures;Decreased or unequal pupil size;Behavioral changes, such as depression;Loss of balance;Head tilt to either side;Facial paralysis;Uncoordinated movements;Excessive circling;Decreased responsiveness;Stumbling;Blindness;Pain;Tremors;Decreased consciousness

Disease Cause: There are two broad categories of what causes encephalitis in dogs: those caused by infection and those that are non-infectious (often referred to as immune-mediated, or idiopathic). In dogs, non-infectious causes are much more common.The less common infectious causes of encephalitis include bacterial infections (aerobic and anaerobic), viruses (such as distemper, rabies, and parvovirus), fungal infections (such as aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, and blastomycosis), protozoa, tick-transmitted (rickettsia), complications of vaccines, foreign bodies, and parasitic infections (such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis).

Disease Diagnose: The veterinarian and/or vet tech will first give your dog an extremely thorough physical examination. This will be followed by a chemical blood profile, complete blood count and urinalysis. MRIs and CT scans may be ordered to evaluate your dog’s brain structure and function.

Treat Method: Treatment plans will vary on a case-by-case basis, but the course of action is generally the same. Your vet will first determine your dog’s symptoms, then put together a plan to help reduce their severity. Symptoms like seizures or brain edema will be attacked first to halt the progression of the disease. This plan may require your dog to be hospitalized and receive intensive care for stabilization.In the less common cases where encephalitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your vet will treat the underlying cause individually, often through the use of a broad spectrum of antibiotics, which can reach the brain and spinal cord.

Breeder Advice: Whenever you encounter symptoms that you think might be indicative of encephalitis, make sure to bring your dog to see your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment is vital to extending your dog’s life.

Disease Description Source: Link