The canine disease, found almost exclusively with the Maltese breed, causes tremors over the dog’s entire body. The tremors are not thought to cause the dog any pain. There are still studies being done to find out why this happens to white dogs; current thought is that is may be an autoimmune reaction.
What are the Symptoms of White Dog Shaker Syndrome?
If a Maltese dog does get White Dog Shaker Syndrome, it will usually begin to show between the ages of 6 months to 3 years old. Tremors begin over the dog’s whole body. In almost every case, once this starts, the tremors become worse over the course of 3 days. From day 4 and onward, the tremors will remain with the same intensity until treated.
The dog will:
Have tremors that can vary from very mild to very severe – in severe cases the dog will not be able to walk
Tremors may appear worse when the Maltese becomes excited, such as when you arrive back home, etc.
The Maltese may have more tremors when they are attempting to perform a specific action, such as retrieving a toy on command, etc.
If your dog does have White Dog Shaker Syndrome, the tremors usually go away or become much milder when the dog is resting and relaxed
Rapid eye movement may happen at the same time as the tremors
How is White Dog Shaker Syndrome Diagnosed?
As soon as you notice your Maltese showing the symptoms, you should bring your dog to the veterinarian right away.
The vet will make a diagnosis of White Dog Shaker Symptom based on:
• The signs that your dog is displaying
• Ruling out other causes
. How is White Dog Shaker Syndrome Treated?
Mediation can be given to a Maltese to treat this. Most commonly used medications are:
• Corticosteroids
• Benzodiazepines
In most cases, the veterinarian will give your dog a very high dose and then slowly decrease the amount as time goes on. It is very important to continue treatment until the full course of medication is done. The medication works quickly and a dog will show improvement in just a few days. However, if the medication is not continued, the symptoms will return just as quickly.
Can a Maltese be Cured of White Dog Shaker Syndrome?
Prognosis is very good. In some cases, a dog may fully recover after receiving the complete course of medication.
Other Maltese dogs will need to receive very low doses of the mediation for the rest of their lives. This generally will not affect a dog’s quality of life and the Maltese can live a long, happy and active lifestyle.
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