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Dog Health SeizuresDog health seizures have two types: primary seizures, or idiopathic epilepsy, which is seizures that occur for no known reason; and secondary seizures, which are seizures that occur due to some diagnosed illness or other cause. The likely cause of the seizure is associated with the age of your dog. Dogs under 6 months of age Causes of recurrent seizures in dogs 6 months to 5 years old Seizuures in this age dog are usually due to a disease that can be diagnosed with a physical exam and blood test. Frequent causes of recurrent seizures in the dog over 5 years of age Dog Health Seizures SymptomsSeizures usually have three phases. During the first phase, known as the aura, your dog may seem restless or nervous. He may tremble or whine. He may wander aimlessly or he may hide. This may last for a few minutes of for a few hours.The middle phase is the seizure itself. During the seizure, sometimes called an ictus, your dog will lose consciousness. He will probably fall on his side. His feet may paddle the air. He may vocalize and his face may twitch. He may empty his bladder or bowels. Though the seizure may seem to go on forever, most seizures last less than two minutes. During the third and final phase, called the post-ictal phase, your dog may appear restless, confused, or unresponsive. He may appear blind and bump into things when moving around the house. This may last for a few minutes or for a few hours. Dog Health Seizures DiagnosisThere are many conditions that can cause your dog to have seizures, including metabolic disorders, liver problems, thyroid disease, central nervous system damage, infections, and genetic disorders. Many of these can be diagnosed by blood tests. Your vet may recommend other tests as well, such as a cerebral spinal fluid test (a test of the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal column), an EEG, an MRI, or a CT scan. If these tests do not find a cause for your pet’s seizures, then your vet will probably make a diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy.Dog Health Seizures TreatmentIdeally, the cause of the seizure is found and treated, and the seizures stop. However, sometimes no cause is found (idiopathic epilepsy), or if the cause is found and treated, lasting damage may have occurred and seizures may continue.Phenobarbitol and primidone are the most often prescribed anti-seizure medications. They may initially cause sedation and may also cause your dog to eat and drink more than usual. These side effects will probably wear off as your dog becomes accustomed to the medication. The object of medication is to decrease the frequency and severity of seizures. It may not be possible to eliminate the seizures altogether.
Home Remedies for Dog Health SeizuresHomeopathic approaches can have a natural calming effect on the central nervous system of your dog resulting in fewer seizures. Herbal drops may be used instead of or along with your pet's prescription medication for seizures. It is not recommended that you discontinue your pet's prescription medication without consulting your veterinarian.A good commercial source for dog seizure homeopathic drops is EaseSure Canine natural remedy for dog seizures.
Sources:The Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach to Recurrent Seizures in the DogJoane Parent, DMV, MVetSc, ACVIM (Neurology) Ontario Veterinary College ,br>www.k9web.com www.canine-epilepsy.net How I Treat Seizures Anor, S. From Dog Health Seizures to more on Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy To Dog Health Guide Home
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