Dogs often get the same kind of health problems and diagnoses as humans, including seizures. The diagnosis, treatments and interventions during the seizure are similar to those in humans. What happens after the seizure is slightly different than humans, but it's nothing to be alarmed about.
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What Are Seizures?
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Lots of electrical currents happen in the brain. In the brain, cells respond and communicate with each other through electrical currents. This action either excites or inhibits a neuron. A seizure happens when there is an imbalance between the excitability of neurons and the neurons that inhibit. The cells become overly excited and cause a seizure.
Diagnosis
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An MRI or CT scan will help determine if there is a secondary cause of seizures in the brain. Just like in humans, dogs may have seizures because of a secondary cause. Something else may be causing the seizures, such as a tumor in the brain, having low calcium, liver failure, an electrolyte imbalance, hypothyroidism or even a metabolic dysfunction. If the seizures are being caused by any secondary reason, then treating that reason may treat the seizure as well. Once your vet determines that the seizures are not being caused by another problem, then your vet can figure out if the seizures happen frequently or if it was just a one-time thing. If your dog has frequent seizures, then your vet will prescribe medications.
During A Seizure
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Make sure you observe your dog while he's having a seizure. According to Canine Epilepsy, when your dog is about to have a seizure, sometimes it will behave in a certain way. So make sure you observe these signs so you'll know when your dog is about to have a seizure. During a seizure, it might cry out, and it might lose control of its bowels and bladder. You need to stay calm and just like with humans, when your dog is having a seizure, clear the area so your dog won't hurt itself. Do not try to restrain your dog or put anything in its mouth. While making sure the area is clear, observe your dog and see what he's doing. Take note of what your dog does during a seizure, such as stiffening up, moving his paws or smacking lips. Write all this down and take note of how long the seizure lasts, so you can notify your vet.
After A Seizure
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Give your dog a small treat if he's hungry after a seizure. After a seizure, sometimes dogs act normal, like nothing happened. But sometimes their behavior might change. They might be hungry, so just give them a small treat and that might calm them down. If they start pacing, have them walk it off. Sometimes dogs will start to whine or might even act aggressive. Observe these behaviors and take note so you know what to expect after your dog has a seizure.
Treatment
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If your dog has a primary diagnosis of seizures, your vet will prescribe medications for your dog that will help ease the seizure. Definitely have this on hand and know how to administer it.
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