Circulatory Collapse in Dogs: How to Handle Syncope

Syncope is the name given to a sudden circulatory collapse in your dog, even if it only lasts for a few moments. What are the causes and symptoms, and what should you do? Here you will find out.

The worst nightmare for dog owners: You pet is lying on the ground, not reacting. Unconsciousness is caused by many factors. Syncope in dogs, which is a circulatory failure, is an example.

What is syncope?

Syncope is a sudden, unexpected fainting of a dog without any warning signs. It is strange that the unconsciousness caused by circulatory collapse only lasts a few seconds. The dog will be up and running in a matter of seconds. He’s awake and acting normally, as if nothing happened.

What happens when dogs’ circulatory collapse?

When the brain does not receive enough blood or oxygen, it can cause syncope. The dog will then have a fainting spell and fall to one side. Once the blood has reached the brain, it is able to function again. The animal then becomes conscious. How does a circulatory failure in a dog occur?

Syncope: Causes and symptoms

There are many reasons why dogs experience a circulatory failure. Syncope, however, is a sign, or an indication, of another illness. Syncope is often caused by heart or brain disease in dogs. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including cardiac arrhythmias, valvular diseases, vasoconstriction or brain tumors.

Syncope and epileptic seizures are difficult to differentiate. Both are similar. The dog’s behavior when it loses consciousness is important.

Epileptic seizures are almost always accompanied by convulsions. The quadrupeds jerk and salivate violently as they wiggle their legs, while dogs slump during syncope.

Syncope and dogs: what to do?

If your dog faints for only a few moments, it is important to consult a vet.

A veterinarian can use various tests to determine the cause of the disease, such as ultrasounds, blood tests and X-rays. The veterinarian will begin the appropriate treatment.

How to treat circulatory collapse in dogs?

Syncope cannot be treated directly. Treatment depends on the disease. For some conditions that cause circulatory collapse medication and a possible change in diet may be sufficient. However, for other conditions such as brain tumors, surgery is often required.