What Are the Causes of Seizures & Skin Lesions in Dogs?

Dogs can become sick by an infection or an illness that is caused by a virus or bacteria. Such medical conditions cause seizures and skin lesions to occur. Seizures take place periodically but last for a short period of time, while skin lesions range from mild to severe and can become infected if not properly treated.

  1. Canine Distemper

    • Canine distemper causes seizures, skin lesions, fevers, vomiting and discharge from the eyes. The communicable virus is spread through contact, such as a cough or an open, infected wound. Vaccinations are available to prevent the virus. Fatal cases are mostly seen in puppies and elderly dogs.

    Epilepsy

    • Epilepsy is a disease that causes periodic seizures. Excitability seems to trigger most seizures in dogs, which last approximately 5 minutes, while some dogs experience restlessness before the condition. Epilepsy is treated with oral and intravenous (IV) medications to reduce frequency and severity of the seizures.

    Blastomycosis

    • Blastomycosis is a fungal disease that invades the lungs and spreads throughout the body, particularly in the bones and testes. Symptoms include weight loss and skin lesions. Lesions can appear on all parts of the body and are usually open and draining. Blastomycosis is treated with oral and IV antifungal medications.

    Demodectic Mange

    • Demodectic mange is caused by small mites that invade the dog's hair follicles. The mites bite the dog, causing crusty, red skin lesions to appear all over the dog's body along with hair loss. Mange is spread through direct contact and affects puppies and older dogs with compromised immune systems. Medicated ointments, dips and shampoos are used as treatments.