Partial Facial Paralysis Recovery

[LolaGirl_116]

My sweet Lola (7 yrs) was just diagnosed with partial facial paralysis on her right side, likely caused by an aggressive inner ear infection. After her MRI and spinal tap yesterday, we started antibiotics and steroids to eradicate the infection. The neurologist said that even after the infection is cleared, the facial paralysis will be permanent with a small chance that she could regain the ability to blink her right eye. But otherwise, she will require artificial tears for the rest of her life. Of course she is totally unfazed by the paralysis, and is otherwise happy and healthy. She hasn't presented signs of vertigo or imbalance yet. She gets a little messier when she eats, but that's what snoods are for.

As this condition is pretty common in Cocker Spaniels, I'm curious if anyone has had experience with this diagnosis. Did your dog ever regain any nerve function or ability to blink? Did any other complications arise after the onset of the paralysis? She's also pretty active and likes to explore, but I want to keep her eye protected since she can't close it. Any advise is greatly appreciated!

 

[manuel]

I've heard of cockers having frequent ear infections. I didn't know nerve damage was also common. There's no telling if or when her symptoms will improve. It's a good sign when symptoms improve right away. I hope Lola recovers. I'm glad you were able to get her tested by a specialist.

 

[LolaGirl_116]

I've heard of cockers having frequent ear infections. I didn't know nerve damage was also common. There's no telling if or when her symptoms will improve. It's a good sign when symptoms improve right away. I hope Lola recovers. I'm glad you were able to get her tested by a specialist.

I probably didn't word that very well. Not that it's very common in Cocker Spaniels in general, since it seems like a fairly rare condition. But of the dogs that do have this condition, Cockers are one of the first breeds listed. Thank you so much for your well wishes!