Carl

Meet Carl

6 month old Carl was found as a stray in Toronto and was very sick. He was brought into emergency care and after extensive testing he tested positive for cocaine toxicity (he ingested cocaine).

He remained in hospital and through supported medical care recovered from the poisoning. He was however, still a bit wobbly, so the neurological team was brought in for consult and it was concluded Carl ha a mild case of cerebellar hypoplasia.

Cerebellar hypoplasia is a medical condition, where part of the brain does not develop as it should. Though typically hereditary, it's also believed that it can happen to dogs exposed to infections or toxins. The portion of the brain effected is the cerebellum which manages a dog's intentional movements.

Cerebellar Hypoplasia symptoms may include:

- wobbly or exaggerated gait
- head bobs
- tremors

There is no cure for Cerebellar Hypoplasia and symptoms typically never worsen. Every dog with cerebellar hypoplasia is different, so symptoms and degree of, will vary from dog and dog.

Carl is quite mobile though certainly clumsy. He walks and runs with a bit of a wobbly gait and can stumble but easily corrects himself.

He is the sweetest little boy you could hope to meet full of love and snuggles for humans and pets alike.