My vet says my dog has meningitis. What does that mean?
Meningitis is an inflammation in the meninges, the membranes that coat and protect the brain and spinal cord. Typically caused by an infection and potentially life-threatening, meningitis can be either bacterial or non-bacterial. Bacterial meningitis is transmitted through the bloodstream from a secondary wound or infection. The cause of non-bacterial (or aseptic) meningitis is unknown. You can tell if your dog has meningitis by noticing signs of depression, fever, seizures, and a general loss in coordination.

What is difficult about meningitis from an owner’s perspective is the diagnosis. Your vet will have to extract fluid from your pup’s spine to properly diagnose it, which means he’ll be inserting a large needle directly into your dog’s back. This can be painful for the dog even with anesthesia, so it may be best to leave the room and allow the vet and technicians to handle the procedure… your tears and tension just make the situation more stressful for your pooch. Meningitis can usually be treated effectively with anti-inflammatory medications. In the case of bacterial meningitis or seizures as symptoms, antibiotics and anti-seizure meds may also be administered.