How to Help a Dog with Seizures
There are Various Things Owners May do to Assist Their Seizing Dog
Mar 17, 2009 Adrienne Farricelli
If your dog has recently started suffering from seizures, very likely your veterinarian has ruled out other conditions and has come to the conclusion that your dog suffers from Epilepsy. Most often than not, the condition is idiopathic, meaning that there is not a known cause.
Most dogs are therefore, put on common prescription medications such as "Phenobarbital" or "Potassium Bromide" or a combination of both. While this is the most standard approach to keep seizure activity under control, there are many things owners can do at home to help their furry friends during a seizure and hopefully help them recovery faster.
How to Help your Dog During a Seizure
- Ensure Your Dog's Safety
Your primary concern should be to remain calm and ensure your dog is not in any danger. Keep your dog far from sharp objects, away from steps and stairs or slippery areas.
- Ensure Your Own Safety
Many owners believe that their dogs may swallow their tongue during a seizure and therefore, they may attempt to pry open their dog's jaw and stick their dog's tongue to the side. This is extremely dangerous, dogs have uncontrollable movements while seizing and opening their mouth may easily cause an owner to get severely bit. Dogs do not tend to swallow their tongues, so this practice is really not necessary.
- Cool the Dog Down
Seizures cause a significant rise in temperature in dogs. For this reason, owners should be concerned when the dog's seizure lasts quite long. Lengthy seizures have been associated with brain injury. Cooling the dog may be helpful. This is accomplished by sponging the dog near specific areas such as head, armpit and abdomen. Some owners have reported that placing an ice pack on the dog's back, right next to the end of the neck, has helped the dog come out of a seizure.
- Time the Seizure Carefully
As mentioned, time is of the essence. If your dog is seizing for more than 5 minutes, it is best to contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic. The longer the seizure, the more damage it may ultimately cause.
- Use Acupressure
There is a specific area which some owners and veterinarians have noticed is sensitive to pressure and may halt the seizure. It is certainly well worth a try. The area is known as GV 26 and it located at the base of the nose where it meets the upper lip.
How to Help your Dog Recover from Seizures
- Provide lots of Comfort
Most dogs, once the seizure subsides, will appear disoriented and stressed. If the owner is nearby, the dog may feel reassured and well cared for. This is a good time to provide comfort and let the dog know you are there.
- Bring Sugar Levels Back to Normal
According to Guardian Angels, dogs offered Haagen Dasz Vanilla ice cream, seem to get their glucose levels back to normal when offered a bit of this treat. The choice of this particular brand is attributed to the fact that it contains no preservatives. The fat content of ice creams helps sugar to be absorbed less quickly thus, released more slowly, than when the dog is offered pure sugar sources such as honey or Karo Syrup. This ultimately prevents 'sugar rush'.
- Bring Back Energy Levels
Dogs suffering from seizures weaken and may need to be renourished. It may be helpful to offer some plain cooked pasta or rice with a little bit of butter. Butter should be given with caution to pets that suffer from pancreatitis. Only feed a dog that is fully conscious and able to swallow properly.
- Monitor Your Dog
After a seizure, monitor your dog carefully. Ensure he/she is able to walk, eat and go potty as usual. Some dogs may appear disoriented and weak after a seizure, but most improve within half hour. Check your dog's gums for a nice healthy pink. Pale gums, general weakness and further seizure activity should be reported to yourr veterinarian promptly.
Seizures can be quite scary occurrences, but fortunately in most cases, they can be brought under control. Consult with your veterinarian for proper assessment and treatment and follow his/her instructions accordingly.
Monitor your Dog Carefully After a Seizure
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