Understanding and Managing Dog Seizures

Recognizing and Responding to Canine Seizures

When your dog experiences a seizure, it's imperative to seek veterinary care promptly. While epilepsy is a common diagnosis, seizures can also stem from other causes such as brain tumors, head injuries, or exposure to toxins. It's important to identify the underlying cause because treatments for epilepsy will not be effective for seizures due to other issues.

Diagnosing the Cause: Beyond Epilepsy

Once epilepsy is confirmed by your vet, treatment options can be considered. Not all cases require immediate treatment; intervention is typically recommended if seizures occur more than once a month. The goal of treatment is to diminish the severity and frequency of seizures, although it's important to understand that some seizures may persist regardless of the chosen treatment.

First-Line Treatments: Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) such as Potassium Bromide and Phenobarbital are often the initial medications prescribed, either alone or in combination. For dogs experiencing prolonged seizures or clusters of seizures, Diazepam may be administered. Despite its controversial reputation due to potential liver damage and other side effects, Primidone is still used in some cases, though it's often referred to as "Primadon't" among dog owners due to its risks. Gabapentin, also known as Neurontin, has emerged as a beneficial treatment for canine epilepsy. Regular liver function tests are necessary when using AEDs to monitor for increased liver enzymes and ensure your dog's liver health.

Alternative Approaches: Acupuncture and Gold Bead Implants

Alternative treatments such as acupuncture or gold bead implants may be considered. Acupuncture involves inserting needles at specific points on the body, while gold bead implants involve placing a gold bead at acupuncture points. These methods can be explored before resorting to AEDs, with gold bead implants being a last resort after other treatments have failed.

Nutritional Interventions: Diet and Supplements

Diet may significantly impact seizure management. Many commercial dog foods contain preservatives and chemical dyes that can trigger seizures in susceptible dogs. Eliminating these from your dog's diet and incorporating fresh foods, including green leafy vegetables, may reduce seizure frequency. Consulting with a holistic veterinarian can help ensure a balanced diet, appropriate vitamin supplementation, and homeopathic treatments if recommended. Providing bottled water can also be beneficial, especially in areas with fluoridated tap water.

Post-Seizure Care: Rescue Remedy and Ice Cream

Bach's Flower Essence, known as Rescue Remedy, can help lessen seizure intensity if administered at the onset. It's widely available in health food stores. Since seizures deplete a significant amount of energy, offering your dog a tablespoon of natural vanilla ice cream, like Breyers All Natural, can help restore blood sugar levels post-seizure. This can also serve as a comforting treat for your dog after the ordeal.

In Conclusion

Seizures in dogs can be managed with a combination of veterinary-prescribed medications, alternative therapies, dietary adjustments, and supportive care. It's crucial to work closely with your veterinarian to tailor a treatment plan that suits your dog's specific needs. With the right approach, dogs with epilepsy can enjoy a good quality of life.

For more detailed information on canine epilepsy and its treatments, visit the American Kennel Club's resource page or consult the International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force's consensus reports.