signs of vestibular disease include head tilt, circling, nystagmus (an abnormal movement of the eyes), and difficulty or inability to stand. these clinical signs are similar to those seen in humans experiencing vertigo. vestibular disease may have many causes. elderly dogs are susceptible to an idiopathic (meaning due to unknown causes) form of vestibular disease commonly called "old dog vestibular disease" or idiopathic peripheral vestibular disease. the signs may improve rapidly or take a few days. less commonly, vestibular signs can also be caused by inner ear disease, a brain tumor, a stroke, or other causes. the major risk with idiopathic peripheral vestibular disease is that the dog is often unable to eat, drink, or go outside to urinate or defecate. these cases must receive supportive therapy of intravenous fluids and nutrition; a light sedative is sometimes administered, as the dog may be very stressed by the experience.