concussion in small dogs

Question
My 3 lb. chihuahua was chasing another dog in our home on Sunday evening, slipped on the tile, slid into the wall, and knocked herself out.  She was unconscious for 3-5 minutes.  We took her immediately to the vet and she stayed there for 24 hours.  They took x-rays, did not see any damage and watched her for swelling.  She is at home now with 5 days worth of prednisone.  The vet said due to the head injury she may be prone to seizures in the future.  I was also instructed to keep her confined and quiet for the next 5 days.

I expected she would be fine when we brought her home, but she is very lethargic and a little uncoordinated physically.  Is this to be expected?  She is sleeping a lot and doesn't have much of an appetite.  I guess I'm just wondering what to expect recovery-wise from a concussion.  The vet didn't really give me any information as to what to expect.  Thanks so much for your help.

Answer
Patti,

Having had a head injury myself I can say that whats going on is normal.  It's very sad but with time and rest she should start coming around.  

The lethargy is normal, loss of appetite normal (she probably feels nauseated) and being uncoordinated is definitely normal. I would give her chicken with out the skin heated and see how she likes that.  Also try wet food (if she doesn't have it already) You need to try to get anything down her so her body has fuel to heal.  

Cooked ground beef, turkey, chicken, duck anything that she wants she can have (within reason-no sugars, doggie treats, junk food etc.)  Stick to human grade cooked meats and maybe some white rice.  Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice is yummy too.

It's going to take some time, the brain has been bruised and the body needs rest and time to clear the blood and inflammation.  Try to carry her places instead of having her walk and call your vet if any of her symptoms change or worsen.  She should be with someone at all times for the first week, watch for seizures and if one occurs take her to the vet right away.  Try to see how long they last and pay attention to how she moves during one if it should happen.

If she does not eat she needs to be admitted to the hospital for observation and IV fluids.  During this time it's critical she has nourishment otherwise she won't get any better.

As far as how long it will take, that very hard to say it could be a few months before she's really feeling better.  I was in a bicycle accident and had a concussion myself, I wasn't really OK for about 7 months.  I feel for your chi, give her a hug for me!

Take Care,

Laura