Why Do Dogs Have Seizures?

A dog is a man’s best friend and just like their owners, a dog can have any number of ailments that can affect their overall health. Dogs, like people, can have seizures for a variety of reasons that can be debilitating to their life.

Causes of Dog Seizures can be the result of some systemic disease, kidney or liver failure or even low blood sugar. There are many factors that can influence the development of a seizure in dogs; one of the main contributing factors is a dog’s age. In most cases, age also contributes to determining the pet’s course of treatment. The threat of brain damage exists in dogs who have epileptic episodes just as it does in humans. The more seizures a dog has, the greater the threat becomes. We can watch for obvious signs that our dog is in danger of having seizures or other major illness by paying attention to any erratic or out of the ordinary behavior. Other signs include; loss in the controlling of bowel movements and urination, any indication that your dog is having trouble breathing, weakened pulse or fainting. If you witness any of these signs, it is essential to get your dog to a veterinarian immediately.

Dealing with Canine Epilepsy

There are various forms of epilepsy that can affect dogs. Although seizures in dogs are mainly classified as “focal seizures”, there are many forms that can result in what are referred to as “cluster seizures” or more than one seizure in a 24 hour period. Canine epilepsy is treatable and can be managed with medication. The most commonly used medication is Potassium Bromide. This medication is more widely used because it has no harmful effects on the liver. Other types of canine seizure medication include Zonlsamide and Felbamate, used in conjunction with phenobarbital.

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Many dog owners look at their dog as if they were one of their “children”, and the best way to keep our “children” healthy is through the use of prevention. The main focal point of Dog seizure prevention is of course control. It is important to understand this is a “sudden reaction from the brain that causes involuntary movements.” Signs such as twitching, numbness or temporary paralysis all indicate that a seizure is imminent.

A dog’s diet is a very important factor in prevention. Diet is important not only in the prevention of seizures, but for your dogs better overall health. It is strongly suggested that keeping a dogs diet free of foods that are processed or those made with unnatural products or fillers is best.

When researching what name brands to feed your dog, be sure to look for those brands that are made with more natural ingredients or from home made recipes. You can also acquire vitamins and supplements for your dog that help enhance the immune system to both aid in fighting seizures and ward off other problems with your dogs health. Take your dog to the vet regularly and follow the veterinarians advice. Avoid using things like toxic flea products, hair sprays, carpet powders and smoking around your dog. And remember, your dog needs all the exercise he can get.