Dogs can experience seizures for several reasons. Epilepsy, toxic substances such as antifreeze, tumors, kidney disorders, infections and certain medications can cause these episodes of involuntary muscle contractions. Signs of an impending seizure can include pacing, whining, salivating and seeking affection. Knowing how to handle these situations allows you to keep your dog as safe as possible and ensure that he receives proper medical care. Although some seizures are mild and isolated incidents, others can be severe and require immediate treatment.
-
Provide a Safe Environment
-
Dogs experiencing seizures can't control their movements or behavior. Make sure your dog is in a safe environment to reduce the risk of serious injuries. Move furniture and sharp objects away from your dog and keep her away from stairs, fireplaces and pools. Keep the room quiet and remain calm to minimize stress for both you and your dog. Don't let other pets or kids near her until the seizure ends. Applying gentle pressure with a pillow or blanket to hold her down can prevent self-inflicted injuries. Putting a pillow on the floor can help protect your dog from head trauma. Your dog won't swallow her tongue during a seizure, according to veterinarian Race Foster. Reaching into her mouth could result in an involuntary bite if her jaws snap shut.
Note Details
-
Time your dog's seizure and call your veterinarian if it lasts longer than five minutes. Seek emergency care if it lasts longer than 20 minutes or if your dog experiences several seizures in a row. Watch your dog closely and note which areas of his body are affected. Partial seizures occur on only one side or in one area, while generalized seizures affect the skeletal muscles throughout your dog's body. Generalized seizures can be either grand mal or petite mal. Dogs experiencing grand mal seizures have convulsions, drool excessively and urinate or defecate uncontrollably. Dogs having petite mal seizures fall into a state of unconsciousness without convulsing.
After a Seizure
-
Your dog could require up to an hour to recover from a seizure. Since she might be disoriented or have difficulty walking, don't let her near stairs until she's back to normal. Make sure she has access to fresh water. Stay with your dog and speak to her in a reassuring voice, especially if she acts as though she's done something wrong. Give your veterinarian as much detail as possible about your dog's seizure so that the cause can be determined. Underlying conditions, such as epilepsy, can often be managed so that seizures are less frequent and severe.
-