Because of this, it can be helpful to gently place cool washcloths over his feet after the seizure has ended. Some owners wrap their dog in a towel or blanket and hold him to comfort him after a seizure. It is fine to do this if your dog has become alert and is otherwise back to normal following the seizure.
Avoid doing this if hugging usually bothers your dog, as he will not find it comforting in this situation, either. After your dog is alert and awake again, he may be very tired. Your dog may also be extremely hungry or thirsty after a seizure. If this is the first time your dog has had a seizure or if the seizure lasted longer than usual, call your vet right away and ask their advice. Follow what the vet suggests.
If your vet diagnosis your dog with epilepsy, he may be given epilepsy medication. You will need to speak with your vet for more information about how to administer this medication and what to expect in terms of side effects when you give it to your dog.
Seizures are not uncommon in dogs. Some breeds are much more prone to having them than others, but all breeds can suffer from seizures at some point in their lives. Seizures in dogs may be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, age, hereditary problems, underlying disease, and more. They may also be caused by epilepsy. Contact your nearest VEG location if you have any questions.
You will always speak directly to a qualified veterinarian. Certain breeds are more at risk for idiopathic epilepsy, including:. If your dog collapses and starts having a seizure, there are things you can do to help her safely through it. If the seizure lasts for longer than a few minutes, then there is a risk your dog could overheat.
Quickly place a fan near her to blow cool air on her and wrap a cool, damp cloth around her paws to help cool her down. If the seizure lasts for more than five minutes, take your dog to your veterinarian, or to an emergency clinic if it's after hours. When the seizure has passed, call your veterinarian and schedule an appointment for a complete physical evaluation to be performed on your dog.
Your veterinarian will do a thorough physical examination of your dog, complete with lab work to look for any potential underlying causes.
If a medical problem is diagnosed, then your veterinarian may treat the problem to see if that helps improve your pet's condition.
In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe an anti-seizure medication such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, or levetiracetam. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements your dog is currently taking so your vet may make the best treatment decision for your pet's unique case and help reduce the risk of a potential drug interaction.
Evan Ware is a veterinary practitioner in Phoenix, Arizona. His areas of expertise include orthopedic medicine and surgery, veterinary oncology and chemotherapy, and general and advanced soft-tissue surgery. This content is intended for counseling purposes only. No claims are made as to the safety or efficacy of mentioned preparations. You are encouraged to speak with your prescriber as to the appropriate use of any medication. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
Some dogs may urinate or defecate. This does not make the seizure better or worse. Seizures that last more than minutes can put dogs at risk of hyperthermia overheating. Always call your veterinarian or emergency veterinarian after your dog has a seizure, even if your dog seems to be acting normally.
This requires immediate veterinary attention, and you MUST take your dog to a veterinarian right away for examination. Emergency First Aid for Dogs Even the most responsible pet owner can't always protect their pet from a sudden accident or illness.
Getting your pet immediate medical attention can be the difference between life and death. Download this e-book to learn more about what to do in an emergency situation. If your pet is diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy , this is actually relative good news since many dogs live an otherwise long and happy life once seizure management programs are in place. The alternative reasons for seizures are much less common.
These include:. Some causes of seizures can be ruled in or out with basic blood work so that may be part of the veterinarian visit after the first seizure. An MRI magnetic resonance imaging and spinal tap are required to definitively diagnose idiopathic epilepsy. What else do I need to know about having a pet that has seizures? Take precautions. Your pet may have a seizure when you are not at home. Look for dangers — and mitigate them. For example, if you have stairs in your home, use a baby gate to keep your pet away from them.
Your pet can be seriously injured when taking the stairs if disoriented after a seizure. Track medications. Treatment for seizures often involves medications. Consistency is critical but can be difficult with our hectic lives. Consider keeping a calendar to track dosing. Watch for side effects. A lot of the anti-seizure medications have side effects. Some may be temporary and improve within 10 to 14 days.
Others may last longer. If your pet is having negative side effects, such as being lethargic, trouble walking, behavior changes, please alert your veterinarian. Your pet may be better suited to a different drug option.
Seizures are a very alarming thing to experience with your pet. Knowing another may surface can be unsettling.
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