Meningitis Treatment--how effective is it??

[Celeste L]

My 3-yr old dog has been lame for a few days and been back and forth to the local vet to check up on his symptoms. The vet x-rayed and tested for tick diseases--all negative. We were treating with doxycycline just in case of a false negative but today he was back at the vet with worsening symptoms and no appetite. The vet concluded that his neurological system was very compromised and sent us to a specialist. The dog went into a very scary seizure at the specialist visit at which point he concluded that the dog has meningitis. They sedated him and took him away for the spinal tap and other series of tests. Has anyone reading experienced meningitis in an animal and what was their recovery like? We've already agreed to the very expensive rounds of testing and hospitilization--this dog is very much part of the family. I just want to feel more assured that recovery is likely. Today was very difficult and I don't know how I'll handle it if the dog doesn't make it.Thanks to all that answered, but the dog passed away late last night.

[Brandi H]

I hope u'r lil guy gets ok wish u the best

[blk_sheep_fl]

meningitis is an inflamation (infection) of the meninges...which consists of three parts...the lining of the brain, the lining of the spinal cord, and the cerebro spinal fluids...it can be viral or bacterial. None of that really matters to you at this point. The issue is that the resulting inflamation, swelling and/or fever can cause neurological damage. Basically nerves don't regenerate, so once done, the damage will tend to remain. Now, sometimes pressure causes the appearance of damage but when the pressure is relieved the "damage" does go away. Siezures can also cause neurological damage. The outcome really often depends on just how much neurological damage there is, and what the specific damage is. The good thing is you seem to have caught it fairly early, and the early antibiotics may be a real asset. Good luck!

[grinninh]

Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the meninges which are in the brain. Likely to be brought on by septic blood or bite wounds. Antibiotics, seizure meds and steroids are used to combat it. Hospitalization with supportive care and monitoring is essential in fighting this serious infection. The outcome varies depending on the degree of the infection and inflammation. I hope your dog pulls through. You are a great owner by getting your dog the attention it needs. Your pets lucky to have you!