Canine partial seizures, also called focal seizures, are not as dramatic as grand mal seizures. The dog stays conscious. Only one part of the body, such as a leg or the head, will uncontrollably jerk about. According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, partial seizures in dogs usually get worse over time as the seizures affect more body parts.
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Causes
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Dog focal seizures are caused by head injury, disease such as hydrocephalus (water on the brain), poisoning, brain tumors or epilepsy.
Types
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There are two types of partial seizures in dogs--simple focal seizures and complex focal seizures. The difference is that in the complex type, the dog's behavior radically changes.
Warnings
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According to Hurricane Animal Hospital, some dogs get frightened after a partial seizure. Dogs with complex focal seizure may become suddenly aggressive.
Time Frame
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Partial seizures in dogs usually last less than one minute. If they last for more than five minutes, call a vet.
Diagnosis
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Treatment depends entirely upon diagnosing the cause of the dog's focal seizures. Diagnostic tests can involve X-rays, MRIs and blood work. Then it can be decided if drugs or surgery would be appropriate.
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