Epilepsy in Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
Epilepsy in dogs is a problem for many pet owners. It can result in a great deal of stress, both emotional and financial. If you think your dog may have epilepsy, read this guide and consider contacting your vet if you think epilepsy may be present.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a disorder where the sufferer has recurring seizures. Seizures occur when the neurons in cerebrum misfire, causing trembling and uncontrolled spasms. Although the mechanics and causes of these misfires are not entirely known, they are very similar to those in humans.
Most experts believe that the seizures are a result of neurotransmitters not being in a proper chemical balance. This would prohibit the nerves from behaving in a normal and coordinated manner, resulting in fits of convulsions.
What Can Trigger an Epileptic Seizure?
Although the actual causes for seizures are unknown, it is common for moments of extreme excitability to increase the likelihood. Epilepsy in dogs can result in seizures happening when a child or adult comes home from work or school. Even a rousing game of fetch can lead to a seizure.
Some dogs even have seizures while they sleep, but keep in mind that many dogs dream and will shake and bark while sleeping. If you are concerned that your dog is having a seizure while sleeping, attempt to wake them. If they are seizing, they will not wake up until after the seizure has ended.
What Dogs are More Likely to Develop Epilepsy?
Unfortunately, epilepsy in dogs is not limited to any specific breed, and even mutts can develop the disorder. Certain breeds, however, are more likely to develop it at some point in their life. Saint Bernards, Dachshunds, Beagles, Collies, German Shepherds, and Poodles (just to name a few) all have heightened chances of getting it.
Epilepsy can also be passed down genetically and within family lines. Because of this it is not recommended to use an epileptic dog for breeding purposes, since it can pass the trait on to its puppies.
If you know that your dog is at risk for genetic epilepsy, begin to look for signs at the age of 6 months. Generally, epilepsy will develop between the ages of 6 months, to 3 years, but it can develop as late as 5 years of age as well.
Can Epilepsy Be Cured?
Epilepsy in dogs cannot currently be cured. It can, however, be treated with a variety of medications. If your vet has diagnosed epilepsy and decided to begin treatment, anti-seizure medication will be administered orally to your pet.
At this point, it is important to begin keeping a log of how often and severe the seizures are. The purpose of the medication is to reduce the amount of seizures and intensity of them. The medicine may be increased or decreased at your vet’s discretion. Be sure to discuss possible side effects of these drugs, as they will most likely need to be taken for the rest of your dog’s life.
In some cases, the seizures will be so severe and frequent that your vet may need to inject valium into your dog to ease the symptoms. This is rare, but does happen, and you should ask your vet about this possibility.
How Can I Help My Dog During a Seizure?
If your dog has a seizure, there are certain things you can do to help him through it. The most important thing you can do is to remain calm and remove any children or other pets from the room or area. They will only add to the stress of the situation, and it may be painful for the child to watch the family pet going through this.
Do not under any circumstances put your hand or an object into your dog’s mouth. Your dog will not swallow its tongue. Instead, busy yourself with keeping your dog safe. If your dog is on an elevated surface like a bed or a couch, carefully lower him to the ground to prevent any injuries from falling. If your dog is near any sharp objects, remove them immediately. If there are any dining room chairs or tables near your dog, try to remove them as well.