Educating The Owner About Seizures In Dogs

Pets are in most households in the United States. Dogs are a very popular pet. They become a loving family member. Some dogs exhibit health issues throughout their lifetime. Seizures in dogs is quite common. There are different types and causes. There are unique symptoms as well as many treatments for the disorder.

When a sensory process is disrupted by abnormal impulses to the brain a seizure may occur. This condition affects all people and animals on occasion. In the canine world, there are six different types. There is the generalized type of seizure which is in fact just that typical and general. It can be thought of as major or minor.

As in humans, the grand mal seizure is more serious. It can be deadly. Initially an animal will lose control of balance as its limbs will stiffen. The petit mal type is rare in dogs. The petit mal will have the animal losing consciousness and rolling its eyes up in its head.

A partial seizure is another type that only effects part of the body. These can turn into a generalized type of seizure. A complex partial seizure is when the dog will show changes in their behavior as well as have the seizure. It could show aggression, move around quickly or even bite its own legs. A cluster type is one in which the pet will show signs from different types of seizures.

The seizure has different stages it will go through. For instance these are called the pre-ictal, ictal and post-ictal. The first stage is the pre ictal. The owner will be able to tell this stage as the animal may begin to act strangely, be anxious, whine and shake. This stage may last a few minutes to a few hours.

The Ictal stage is actually when it is occurring. These range in time and no two are the same. It may only be seconds to minutes. Do not be surprised if the dog has an accident. Sometimes this may occur. They will fall over and stiffen. The final stage in the process is Post-Ictal phase. In this phase, the canine is acting confused or disoriented. They may have blindness for a little while.

When the condition is occurring, the best advice for an owner is not to panic. Do not hold the dog. Leave the dog alone and keep the area clear. Do not put fingers in its mouth as it may clamp down. Keep other animals out of the room. For any questions or concerns, ask the expert, the animals vet. Give them a call if the condition occurs for a long time. The vet will want to see the dog for an office visit to monitor its health status.

Dogs can have seizures. Being an informed owner is the best way to handle the issue if it were to occur. Do not be afraid but read about the condition. Educate yourself so that your furry friend can receive the care that they deserve. Talk to the vet about any fears, questions or concerns regarding seizures. They will be the best advocate to prepare the owner in the case of one happening.