Dog Seizures: Understanding and Responding

Seizures in dogs can be frightening for both the pet and the owner. A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. They can manifest in many ways, from a brief staring spell to violent convulsions with loss of consciousness.

Causes of Seizures

The causes of canine seizures are varied and can be broadly classified into:

• Idiopathic Epilepsy: This is the most common cause, especially in certain breeds like German Shepherds, Beagles, and Golden Retrievers. The cause is unknown (genetic predisposition is suspected), and dogs typically start having seizures between 6 months and 5 years of age.
• Structural Brain Disease: This includes brain tumors, infections (like encephalitis), trauma, or congenital malformations.
• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like liver disease, kidney failure, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and electrolyte imbalances can trigger seizures.
• Toxins: Exposure to certain poisons, such as lead, strychnine, or some insecticides, can cause seizures.

Types of Seizures

Seizures can be categorized by their appearance:

• Generalized Seizures (Grand Mal): These involve the entire brain. The dog typically loses consciousness, falls to the side, and exhibits involuntary muscle contractions (convulsions). They may also drool, urinate, or defecate.
• Focal Seizures (Partial): These affect only a specific part of the brain. Symptoms can be subtle, such as twitching of a limb, facial movements, or behavioral changes (e.g., snapping at the air). The dog may remain conscious during a focal seizure.
• Cluster Seizures: Multiple seizures occur within a short period (e.g., 24 hours).
• Status Epilepticus: A prolonged seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or multiple seizures occurring without the dog regaining consciousness in between. This is a medical emergency.

What to Do During a Seizure

During a seizure, your primary goal is to keep your dog safe:

• Stay Calm: It’s crucial to remain calm to help your dog and accurately observe the seizure.
• Protect Your Dog: Clear the area around your dog to prevent them from injuring themselves. Remove furniture or sharp objects.
• Do Not Put Your Hands in Their Mouth: Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not swallow their tongues during seizures. Attempting to put something in their mouth is dangerous and could result in you being bitten.
• Time the Seizure: Note the start and end time of the seizure. This information is important for your veterinarian.
• Observe the Seizure: Pay attention to the specific symptoms your dog is exhibiting. Are they twitching, paddling their legs, drooling, or losing consciousness?
• Contact Your Veterinarian: After the seizure has ended, contact your veterinarian immediately, especially if it’s the dog’s first seizure, the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or the dog has multiple seizures in a row (cluster seizures or status epilepticus).

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical and neurological examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, and advanced imaging (MRI or CT scan) to determine the cause of the seizures. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If idiopathic epilepsy is diagnosed, medication (anticonvulsants) may be prescribed to help control the seizures. Regular monitoring and adjustments to medication dosage may be necessary to achieve optimal seizure control. Diet changes may also be recommended.

While seizures can be distressing, with proper diagnosis and management, many dogs can live relatively normal lives.