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Canine Seizures

Canine seizures are frightening not only to the dog having the seizure attacks, but to the owner as well.

If your dog unfortunately has problems with seizures, be sure to consult a veterinarian to find out the underlying cause(s). Very often, when the underlying cause is addressed and dealt with, the dog will no longer suffer from seizures.

Canine seizures can be generalized or partial:
  • Generalized Seizures (aka Tonic-Clonic Seizures or Grand Mal Seizures)

    Before the onset of the actual seizure, the dog will go into a state called the "aura". During this aura stage, the dog displays some behavioral changes, such as restlessness, anxiety, crying out, and seeking affection.

    Following the aura state is the actual seizure which usually lasts less than two minutes. In the "tonic" phase of the seizure, the dog typically collapses and extends his limbs rigidly. He becomes unconscious and may even stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds. After that, the "clonic" phase begins with a "running or paddling in place" motion, sometimes accompanied by chomping, chewing, drooling, or urination and defecation.

    When the dog regains consciousness, he will be in a "post-seizure" state in which he is confused and disoriented. He may try to get up and walk, only to stumble into a wall. This post-seizure state may last for minutes or even hours.
  • Partial Seizures (aka Focal Motor Seizures)

    A partial seizure is one which only involves one area of a dog's body. For example, there may be twitching of the facial muscles, or jerking of a single limb.

    Partial seizures can be either "simple partial seizures" or "complex partial seizures".

    In a simple partial seizure, the area of the brain affected is the area that controls movement. Usually the face (commonly limited to only one side) is affected, resulting in twitching or blinking. If the seizure spreads, other parts of the body on that same side will be affected. The dog is usually alert and conscious.

    A complex partial seizure involves the part of the brain that controls behavior. In a complex partial seizure, a dog may exhibit strange behavior, such as unprovoked aggression, or senseless irrational fear. Hysterical running, biting of limbs, and smacking of the lips are other common behaviors associated with this type of seizure.

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Possible Causes of Dog Seizures

There are many varied dog illnesses that can cause a dog to have seizures, it is therefore important to consult a vet for a proper diagnosis. Some possible causes include:

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Dog Seizure Symptoms

Canine Seizures

Immediately before a seisure, the dog may be:

  • anxious or frightened
  • restless
  • extra "clingy" to his owner

During a seizure, the dog may:

  • have violent muscle contractions
  • lose motor control
  • faint
  • lose bladder or bowel control

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Conventional Treatment for Dog Seizures

Anticonvulsant drugs such as phenobarbital are the conventional medication for dog seizures. These drugs may be effective in suppressing or stopping a seizure, they are however ineffective in dealing with the underlying cause(s).

Natural Canine Seizure Remedies

Natural remedies, such as herbs and homeopathic remedies, are rather effective in treating dog seizures. For more information, please visit our page on Natural Dog Seizure Remedies.

Handling a Dog in Seizure

Here are some of the things to remember when handling a dog during an epileptic episode:

  • Do not try to restrain the dog's body - If the dog cannot move, he may injure himself during violent convulsion.
  • Do not put your hand in or near the dog's mouth - The dog may inadvertently bite you seriously.
  • Protect the dog's head from hard or sharp objects by removing the objects if possible.
  • Try speaking to the dog softly to ease his fear and anxiety.
  • When administering homeopathic remedies to a dog in seizure, rub the remedies on the dog's ears. Do not give the dog any pills or liquid in the mouth as he will choke on them.



Related Topic

Natural Dog Seizure Remedies

References

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).


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