A seizure results when the brain experiences a sudden surge of neurological activity. Seizures in dogs are typically associated with a condition called canine epilepsy, but other potential causes exist as well that veterinarians must consider when diagnosing this problem. Seizures themselves are not a condition, but rather a symptom of an underlying cause or condition according to Caroline Tanaka, DVM. Seizures can manifest in a number of different ways, and the number of potential causes is just as large.
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Time Frame
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A canine seizure can last only a few seconds, a period of several minutes or even for hours depending on the type of seizure that the dog is having. According to Caroline Tanaka, DVM, although the symptoms associated with the seizure can vary, canine seizures are nearly always accompanied by an altered state of consciousness. Longer seizures have a greater likelihood of causing damage or death, but the dog does not experience pain or discomfort during the seizure as it is likely oblivious to the fact that it is happening at all.
Types
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Canine seizures can generally be separated into two different categories: generalized seizures and focal seizures. Generalized seizures are similar to human "grand mal" seizures, and present as rigidity of the entire body and convulsions. These seizures are the most common type among dogs, and are also referred to as tonic or clonic seizures. Focal seizures are partial seizures, affecting only an isolated part of the brain and body. These are typically mild seizures that may only present as a slight twitching in the face or a limb.
Cluster Seizures
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Cluster seizures present as a chain of seizures over the course of a 24-hour period. Dogs experiencing cluster seizures are in greater need of medical care in comparison to dogs experiencing only the occasional seizure. A dog that experiences a cluster seizure of more than three seizures within 24 hours must see a veterinarian immediately, as an increase in the severity and frequency of seizures will pose a serious threat to the dog's health and cannot be left unchecked.
Status Epilepticus
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According to website Canine Epilepsy, this presents as a prolonged seizure amidst a series of seizures occurring on a continuous basis. This is the most fatal type of seizure in dogs, though all seizures have the capability of being fatal. If status epilepticus is left untreated, it can lead to hyperthermia, brain damage and death. Dogs that go into status epilepticus will require hospitalization, and may require medication to calm or stop the seizures such as a diazepam drip.
Considerations
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Most seizures are not life threatening on their own. Yet, because they indicate that something is wrong with the brain, seizures left untreated can lead to death. Seizures that last longer than a period of five minutes are indicators of a serious emergency situation. When a dog experiences a seizure, owners must seek veterinary care within 24 hours in order to prevent the problem from becoming worse.
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