Head Tremors in Labrador

Question
Hi Dr Fry,

I am intending to take my dog to the vet, but I am after some background information on this problem.

I have a 2yr old black lab named indi.  A few days ago indi was laying on the sofa with me (not a bad life) and her head she started to shake involuntary from left to right...It was like she was having a fit of some sort.  Her eyes were wide open but her body seemed relaxed, this continued for about 15 minutes then it stopped.  When she sat up for a while it stopped but then continued for a few more minutes and then that was it.
It then happened 2 nights later, when she was laying in the same position but only lasted for a few minutes this time.

Her diet is pretty good and gets lots of exercise.  Could you point me in the right direction as to see a vet or a neurologist?

Thanks so much in advance

Melany

Answer
Melany,

I would take her to your veterinarian first for an examination and blood tests.  This could be due to toxin exposure, an infection (even Lyme Disease) or an underlying electrolyte imbalance, low blood sugar, low calcium or kidney - liver or thyroid problems.  If nothing is found, then a diagnosis of epilepsy may be made.   Certainly a veterinary neurologist may need to be consulted if the seizures continue and are not controlled.

Make sure her diet is ALL-Natural...no dyes, no by-products and no preservatives.  I would also supplement her with B Complex vitamins at a dose of 50 mg daily to help support the nervous system.

Good luck,
Dr. Fry