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Skeeter the poodle is one such example. "Inside Edition" has highlighted the struggles that Skeeter endures while trying to accomplish the most basic of canine tasks, like going for a walk or climbing onto a couch to cuddle.
Skeeter's story might seem absurd or even humorous at first, but most viewers feel a combination of sympathy and curiosity for unique pooches like him.
According to experts, narcolepsy isn't as debilitating or traumatic for dogs as it is for humans. However, the quirks of the condition continue to amaze veterinarians. Canine narcolepsy was first identified as a hereditary disease in the early 1970s, and seems to be limited to specific breeds, including dachshunds, poodles and dobermans. Narcolepsy in cats has also been reported, but is said to be extremely rare. Most dogs will develop the condition when they are young and symptoms tend to present themselves when animals become excited, as Stanford University researchers demonstrate in this video.
Treatments for canine narcolepsy, such as anti-depressants, are available, but vets have yet to identify a cure. If you think your pet might be sleeping inordinately often, consult PetWave's list of symptoms and discuss the issue with your vet.
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I would love that dog no matter what. I love dogs and each and every one is special and unique. God bless little Skeeter. I love that precious baby.
I have an 8 lb toy poodle and love her to peices. This poor pup's story ripped my heart out. The poodle personality is really just to "make do" and they are constantly excited and energetic. Poor little guy is just keepin on going with that tail a waggin. Kudos to the family for tending to the special needs of this furry little baby. Not all pet owners are as understanding and strong. God Bless to this family and amazing little dog.
Poor baby! I feel so bad for him! but it seems like he's got great owners that love him no matter what!!
wow, my dad had this, never thought a dog could get to.. It can be brought on my any emotion, happy, sad, angry etc... telling a joke was not a good thing in our house because by the time he got to the punch line he was out on the floor.. did i mention my dad was 374 lbs. not good.... hopefully the antidepressants will help, they helped my dad, attacks were much farther apart. god bless this puppy....
I had a cat when we were growing up that had this. He would run and run and run and suddenly fall over asleep. We only had him a few months before he died from a car accident so we never treated it. I don't think we even knew it was an option.
Yep. You really can't treat your pet for an illness once it's been involved in a "car accident".
Skeeter actually died after collapsing in the middle of the road.
I have a soft spot for "imperfect" pets. I have a runt that a breeder wanted to put down, and a blind dog. We don't give much soecial treatment to the blind one, and she gets on just fine. We just talk to her more so she knows where we are, and we don't move furniture around. I'm sure a few minor adjustments and lots of love Skeeter never felt any different than any other dog!
Aw, that poor little munchkin! I feel so sorry for him. he looks precious. I'm just glad that he has a great family who looks out for him. I hope that this will raise awareness and maybe another vet can reach out with some knowledge to help this precious puppy.
HOW SAD I JUST WATCHED THE VIDEO OF NARCOLEPTIC POOCH I HAVE A SOFT HEART WHEN IT COMES TOO DOGS. WATCHING IT ALMOST MADE ME CRY. I FEEL SAD FOR THE POOCH. I HAVE 2 DOGS I LOVE VERY MUCH AND IF EITHER ONE OF THEM HAD IT I'D LOVE THEM UNCONDITIONALLY AS I DO NOW.