One Health

There are some overlapping symptoms when it comes to peripheral versus central vestibular disease. Here's a quick reference for vets and techs alongside a plain language version. 

------------------------------
Jordan Davis
Founder
Canine Stroke Foundation
------------------------------

Thank you @Jordan Davis for these resources!

This is such a helpful comparison-especially having both a clinical reference for veterinary teams and a plain-language version for pet families. The overlapping signs also reinforce why a complete neurological examination and careful monitoring are so important; symptoms that appear peripheral do not always rule out a central cause.  

	I have a traumatic brain injury and went through extensive vestibular therapy. My therapist was wonderful, and the experience gave me even greater respect for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Human patients can describe dizziness, visual changes, nausea, imbalance, and what makes the symptoms better or worse. Veterinary patients cannot answer those questions directly.
Veterinary teams must instead observe subtle changes in eye movement, posture, balance, alertness, strength, and behavior-while also listening closely to the pet's family. They are not simply "guessing"; they are assembling every available clue to determine where the problem may be and what testing or treatment is needed.

It is a powerful example of One Health: similar body systems and symptoms, different communication challenges, and a shared need for skilled, compassionate care.

------------------------------
T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Center for Pet Family Well-Being
------------------------------

Thank you so much, and thank you for sharing your story! I know many dogs presenting with "old dog vestibular syndrome" turn out to be central in origin when imaging is performed. Unfortunately, CT and MRI are outside of many people's reach. The Canine Stroke Foundation hopes to help change that. I highly recommend every new pet owner get pet insurance to help cover the cost associated with this emergency. 

------------------------------
Jordan Davis
Founder
Canine Stroke Foundation
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-31-2026 12:20 PM
From: T' Fisher
Subject: Differentiating peripheral and central vestibular disease: Clinical Quick Reference

Thank you @Jordan Davis for these resources!

This is such a helpful comparison-especially having both a clinical reference for veterinary teams and a plain-language version for pet families. The overlapping signs also reinforce why a complete neurological examination and careful monitoring are so important; symptoms that appear peripheral do not always rule out a central cause.  

	I have a traumatic brain injury and went through extensive vestibular therapy. My therapist was wonderful, and the experience gave me even greater respect for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Human patients can describe dizziness, visual changes, nausea, imbalance, and what makes the symptoms better or worse. Veterinary patients cannot answer those questions directly.
Veterinary teams must instead observe subtle changes in eye movement, posture, balance, alertness, strength, and behavior-while also listening closely to the pet's family. They are not simply "guessing"; they are assembling every available clue to determine where the problem may be and what testing or treatment is needed.

It is a powerful example of One Health: similar body systems and symptoms, different communication challenges, and a shared need for skilled, compassionate care.

------------------------------
T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Center for Pet Family Well-Being
------------------------------