Canine Epilepsy

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Canine Epilepsy - What can you do?
By: Schipperke
Posted: February 3rd, 2005

The first time my dog, Baron, a four year old Schipperke had a seizure, my husband and I had no idea what we were witnessing or what to do about it. We thought he was going to die right before our eyes.

We were peacefully watching TV, Baron asleep on his back between us. Suddenly, he rolled on his belly, curled up in a tight "C"shape, and began to whine.

It was a scary whine that seemed to last forever.

He didn't seem to be able to see us, and lost control of his bowel and bladder. His little body was as tight as a drum. We called the Emergency Vet Clinic and hurried him over.

Baron had many visits to the clinic that year. After several of these visits and a complete workup from the vet, Baron was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. He was place on medication and the vet discussed the basics of what to do in case of another seizure.

The basics were not enough for us. We wanted to know exactly what to do in case of another seizure. We wanted to be prepared. We wanted to be able to respond in a way that wouldn't upset our dog.

The first place we looked was the internet. We learned some breeds of dogs, such as Schipperkes, are prone to seizures and epilepsy. We found breed specific groups that discuss canine epilepsy and seizures. There are also general canine epilepsy groups. The two groups we belong to are:
k9epilepsy@yahoogroups.com
SchipepilepsyResearch@yahoogroups.com
Both groups are invitation only and post requirements to join on the Yahoo groups web site. The groups offer the most support and suggestions we could find. I asked the members of these two groups for their suggestions on the top five things you can do for your dog with canine epilepsy and this is what they come up with:

1. Learn all you can about canine epilepsy. Join web support groups and read books. Canine Epilepsy by Caroline Levin is an excellent book written about dealing with canine epilepsy holistically.

2. Journal. In the journal enter all episodes that are seizures, or you THINK might be seizures. Note date, time started, time ended, symptoms, any factors that you think may have triggered a seizure, such as a change in diet, noise, stress, illness, injury. Any behavior prior to your dog seizing such as pacing, excessive sleeping or neediness, may be clues to be prepared next time. Other animals in the household may signal to you that a seizure may be imminent.

3. Be Prepared with a ROUTINE SET for when a seizure occurs. Be ready to go to the emergency clinic in the middle of the night. Make sure there is always gas in the car. Have all your supplies read for the dog, such as blankets and towels for a loss of bowel or bladder. Have the phone numbers for your vet and the clinic close at hand at all times. Keep other pets away from the seizing dog, and remove objects that could injure the dog while seizing.

4. Never run out of daily medications and emergency meds the vet prescribes. Give the medications at SET times. Keep in close touch with your vet. Give your vet articles regarding the latest research regarding canine epilepsy and don't be afraid to discuss holistic options.

5. Let your dog live a happy, full life. Love your dog. Go for walks, join agility classes, go for rides in the car (and NOT to the vet's!),snuggle on the couch. Just because your dog has epilepsy doesn't mean he can't live life to the fullest.

The support and advice we received from the vet, the emergency clinic staff, other owners with epileptic dogs on the internet, and from books, has helped us to feel a little more confident to deal with the next seizure Baron may have. We wish Baron didn't have canine epilepsy, but he seems to be the same lovable, goofy dog he always was. If we can react to a seizure calmly and coolly, and get him the help he needs, it will be beneficial for all of us.

Important: Please consult your own vet or pet professional before using any advice!