Hydrocephaly in Dog & Canine

Hydrocephaly is the consequence of the enlargement of the brain ventricles with an increase of the volume of cerebrospinal fluid. It is generally caused by the obstruction of circulation. Affected puppies show gaps between the bones of the cranium, and you can observe the increase in size of the cranium, convulsions, squinting downwards and outwards, with a growth retardation. In older age animals, you will observe signs of primary alteration, giving way later to a secondary hydrocephaly, sometimes without any symptoms. In adult dogs, an increased intracranial pressure is noticed, besides insanity and cerebral hernia. The way to diagnose this is by getting a cranium radiograph, especially a ventrilograph. Needless to say, you must consult the veterinarian as he will give you the correct treatment.