If you own or look after a dog you want to do all you can to look after it
. However if you have seen your dog have a seizure you may not know what to do. Learning how to recognize a dog seizure and how to treat them can save you and your dog unnecessary pain.
Seizures can be caused by a number of factors. In some cases it may be primary or secondary epilepsy. In some dogs it may be hereditary. Another thing to look out for is head injuries and eating toxic substances as this can often lead to seizures. Particularly vulnerable breeds include German shepherds and Dachshunds.
One common misconception when dealing with a dog seizure is that you need to make sure that you need to grab their tongue to ensure they do not swallow it. Not only is this inaccurate but can be potentially very dangerous. This is because the dog is likely to react and bite you, causing you a serious injury.
Recognizing the symptoms is important. There are various types of dog seizure and you should give your veterinarian as many details as you possibly can. For example a partial seizure will occur in only one part of the body whereas a grand mal seizure will include other symptoms such as paddling motions and dilated eyes.
There are various types of seizure with a diverse range of symptoms. The generalized seizure the dog often appears to be paddling on the spot and may perform odd chewing motions. The pupils will dilate and they may lose control of bodily functions. Partial seizures occur are so called because they occur in only one part of the body. They can worsen to the more serious types, so it is important to keep a close eye. They usually start from one part such as the hips.
When a seizure occurs you should do your best to take a deep breath and stay calm. Remember even if your dog is conscious they may not necessarily be aware of what is wrong and they will be reassured by a quiet and calm tone of voice. If possible, move furniture to prevent the dog knocking against it.
Complex Partial Seizures can be quite frightening as the dog behaves in an unusual fashion. This can include running around in circles, air biting or even trying to hide from you. These can last for a few minutes, a couple of hours or even lead on to other forms of seizure.
Depending on the severity of the seizures, the vet may also look at blood tests to check for factors such as glucose and calcium levels. It is vital to observe your pet after the seizure and pass any information on. If the symptoms are spotted early enough, a dog seizure can be treated and they can lead a normal, happy life.