Caring For An Epileptic Dog

The care of an epileptic dog consists of simple attitudes. The goal is to provide a better quality of life for the animal. These are the best options to prevent your dog’s health from deteriorating as the disease progresses.

Getting to know epilepsy better

Idiopathic epilepsy is a hereditary physical disorder that affects the neuronal cells of the brain. Its only recognizable symptom is so-called uncoordinated nerve transmissions, commonly known as seizures or epileptic seizures.

It is not a mental illness. Therefore, an epileptic dog does not have any learning difficulties or personality deficiencies. He is able to get along and develop healthily just like any other dog.

The primary cause of the disorder remains unknown. But because it has a major genetic burden, some breeds are more susceptible. This is the case of the German Shepherd, Labrador, Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, Beagle, Irish Setter and Poodle (Poodle).

What are epileptic seizures?

It turned out that  the cause of the  seizures  is excess electrical activity in some neurons. These cells become overactive and oversensitive. This causes an extreme excitement that usually affects brain function momentarily.

This explains why people and pets experience a loss of motor coordination  during epileptic seizures. They may also show involuntary movements, behavioral changes and/or loss of consciousness.

How is epilepsy diagnosed in dogs?

Epilepsy develops silently in the animal’s body. Diagnosis is only feasible after the onset of the first crisis. Dogs usually suffer their first epileptic attack between 6 months and 5 years of age.

At first, other possible causes must be ruled out. The  seizures  can be symptoms of more serious secondary conditions. This is the case of brain tumors, liver or heart failure, distemper, diabetes, trauma and/or intoxication.

When a dog has a seizure, it is essential to consult a veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis is the key to optimizing care for an epileptic dog.

Can it treat or prevent epilepsy?

The truth is that there is no specific treatment or prevention. The causes of epilepsy are unknown. But yes, symptoms can be relieved and the animal’s quality of life can be improved.

It is common to administer  an anticonvulsant drug to prevent the seizures from intensifying. The veterinarian is the only professional capable of recommending an adequate treatment. And it will do so according to the evolution of the disease in each animal.

What is the care of an epileptic dog?

Epilepsy is not a lethal disease, but  seizures can deteriorate the dog’s health when they are too frequent. The care of an epileptic dog is indicated precisely to reduce the risk of seizures and stabilize the animal

1. Periodic visits to the veterinarian

Veterinary visits are the best preventative measure for all illnesses. An epileptic dog should be examined every 6 months to check the evolution of the disease. The frequency and intensity of crises are determinant for the animal’s health.

It is also important to have blood tests twice a year. Mainly in dogs treated with phenobarbital. High levels of this anticonvulsant in the bloodstream can lead to obesity and liver damage.

2. Appropriate medication

We know that  the ideal is not to expose our pets to large amounts of drugs.  But an epileptic dog needs proper medication to keep his body in balance.

Crises represent a huge strain for the animal, especially for those who suffer from regular attacks. Pharmacological treatment can reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures, thus protecting the dog.

3. Decrease stress

Epilepsy has been shown to have a strong emotional attachment. Epileptic people and pets who have a stressful routine or environment are more likely to have seizures.

The owner’s temperament is decisive for the dog’s behavior. Therefore, to reduce the stress of a pet, it is important to change its owner’s lifestyle first. Although serenity cannot combat genetic inheritance, it can reduce the propensity for attacks.

4. Basic preventive measures

Up-to-date vaccination and deworming are basic preventive measures to preserve the animal’s well-being.

Providing good nutrition and encouraging regular exercise are fundamental actions to strengthen the immune system. Furthermore, they  help to balance the metabolism, prevent overweight and the associated risks.

5. Know how to act in an epileptic seizure

Taking care of an epileptic dog decreases, but does not eliminate the risk of an  epileptic seizure. Therefore, it is essential that the owner is prepared to help the dog.

How to act in the face of an epileptic seizure from your pet?

1. Keep calm and act rationally.
2. Place the animal on a flat, stable surface, thus preventing it from hurting itself if it falls or gets hit. Also, you can place the animal on mats or pillows to make it more comfortable.
3. Never try to pull your tongue or put your hand inside the dog’s mouth. The animal may bite its own tongue or hurt another person unconsciously.
4. If the veterinarian has recommended an anticonvulsant, proceed as directed.
5. Allow the dog to recover in time when the attack is over. Provide a peaceful environment and give the dog room to breathe and regain consciousness.