Question: : I adopted my dog from a shelter 6 weeks ago. she has done great-gained weight, etc. she has perfect general physical results. the only problem is that she has begun having 'outbursts' of her head bobbing up and down & this continues for about 5 minutes. she is not scared and she can walk when this occurs. it is a very rapid shaking of her head only. Is there anything other than distemper that could cause this? It seems like she has a major muscle spasm as opposed to a seizure. And again, everything
else shows her in perfect health. Thanks.

ANSWER: Your dog should be taken to your veterinarian and evaluated for possible focal seizures. Other problems could be neurological/neuromuscular or even related to a metabollic deficiency. A complete exam, blood panel, and urinalysis are next on the list of diagnostics--and more tests may be necessary. You and your vet should work closely together to get to the diagnosis--which may involve a visit to a veterinary neurology specialist.

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