Dealing With Canine Epilepsy: What Is It And What To Do
Dog siezures, K9 seizures or the medical term canine epilepsy is terrifying for dog lovers to witness. It is especially frightening if you didn't know about the condition, or that a dog could have this problem.
If you've ever seen your best friend falling to the ground, stretching its legs and tilting its head back before drooling or losing bladder control, you may have been witnessing this disorder. There may be additional signs as well such as bowel loss, jerking muscles, jaw clamping, or even legs moving and 'running' in the air. It is both heartbreaking and scary to see.
These involuntary actions are caused by an electrical storm in the dog's brain. Just as in humans you have two (2) types of seizures. The first one is called Generalized, which means all skeletal muscles are involved. The second is a Partial Seizure, formerly called Petit Mal and only part of the brain is involved. A Generalized seizure formerly called Grand Mal seizure, and will produce a loss of consciousness in the dog. Normally, but not always the case, a Partial seizure will not alter the dog's state of consciousness.
Between the age of one and five is typically when a dog will be prone to suffering their first seizure. It is a broad condition, not a specific disease. And there are several reasons for seizures. Usually it is classified in two different terms. The first is symptomatic epilepsy, or secondary epilepsy. This is caused by lesions found on the brain of the dog. These are identifiable. The second type is idiopathic epilepsy, or primary epilepsy. In this type there are no lesions or brain traumas. The dog is simply having seizures and there is nothing on the brain to identify.
Belgian Tervurens, Beagles, Keeshonds as well as several other breeds are genetically prone to carry the genes that cause canine epilepsy.
The majority of dogs' seizures can be controlled by medications provided by the veterinarian. These drugs are costly and can cost as much as $250.00 per month, however, since these seizures can be life threatening you do want to have your pet checked out after you have noticed symptoms of a seizure.
I've heard it said that food purchased at the store is a problem and simply changing your dogs diet can help with managing the epilepsy. Try giving your dog something you've made yourself, or even a better organic food that you would be willing to consume! That way you know they aren't gobbling up a bunch of fillers, dyes and other unknown ingredients.
Don't be afraid of Canine Epilepsy with your dog. Generally, treatment is advised for dogs who have regular seizures, more than one a month, but you may be more comfortable on checking with your vet after you have seen the first one. Stay calm until it is over and remember, in most cases, the dog is feeling no pain during the seizure.
I'm a dog lover with a special passion for educating others about dog seizures. You may also be interested in reading my article on dealing with canine epilepsy.