My sister's chocolate lab, Ben- They need some serious help

[pitc9]

I understand that a MRI of the brain would be more definitive, but, can something be gleaned, neuro wise, from lab results?

I don't know how that works, but if it were my dog and he was having these issues, I'd want to see a picture of his brain.

[lizbud]

That is so sad for the dog & for your sister's family.I hope with more
testing they can narrow this down. My best guess from what you've said,
is a neurological issue, a stroke or something. I think I'd try the CAT test
to totally eliminate anything like tumor, etc. Prayers for Ben & the family.

[Vela]

I have to agree with it sounding like a neurologic issue, perhaps combined with the stomach issue, that may be unrelated. His clawed feet and staring and growling at things not there, and the other behavior, suggests neurologic, but he also sounds to have stomach problems as well, but im not sure how his food could create his stomach into one big ulcer like that unless it's a severe allergic reaction, but I would think it would manifest other signs of an allergy too. It sounds horrible I feel bad for them. I hope they are able to get some answers and help for him.

I think an MRI or CT of the brain would be in order. Blood tests can't rule out things like tumors in the brain, etc.

[jesse_3]

Oh my gosh, poor Ben and family! Maybe a second opinion would be helpful from another vet? I have never heard anything like this before either.

Prayers are definitely on the way! All the furbabes are keeping their toes crossed for Ben!

[Giselle]

Are the middle two nails of his paws especially worn down and sort of misshapen? At my clinic, we saw a male Labrador, about 1 year old, who walked similar to the way you described. Both vets in office immediately noticed it and referred the owner to a neurological specialist. They told me that it is not a totally unusual occurence and that it is indeed a neurological problem. Since the brain is so complex and it doesn't sound like they've done extensive testing in that area, I wouldn't be so quick to rule out noggin problems. The behaviors you're describing are quite disturbing and, to me, they signal a problem more complex than a stomach ulcer.

Does she live near any major university? A university would be a greyt place for a referral. Good luck to your sister and Ben *hugs*

[Freedom]

I imagine this must be scary for your sister as it seems to happen when she is alone with a big dog - too big for her to carry to the car if needed.

These symptoms sound serious to me, and the need for more skilled veterinary care is called for. I'm not sure an emergency vet would be able to help, I think sheis on the right track asking for a specialist. But which type of specialist? Maybe that is whythe vet is holding off, hoping that osmething in all the test results will indicate that.

And Ben must be terrified as his body is betraying him.

I hope she can find the proper medical advice to help! Best wishes for all.

[kallisto4529]

I would have your sister take Ben to a different vet and get another opinion, when my Ginger was diagnosed with a brain tumor there was no blood work or anything like that, that could diagnose it, the only thing is either a cat scan or an mri, but i warn you they are very expensive. It sounds like to me he is having siezures and possibly does have something to do with the brain, before they diagnosed mine she did all sorts of weird things.
I really will pray for the best, I know this is horrible for your sister not really knowing what is going on.