subject: Canine Epilepsy: 5 Ways to Lessen the Impact of a Seizure [print this page] Do you own a dog that suffers from canine epilepsy? If so, there are five simple ways you can help reduce the severity of these attacks:
1. Have a bottle of Rescue Remedy with you, wherever the two of you may go. Rescue Remedy is all-natural and is a liquid herb that is contained in a little bottle. It calms dogs down when it is given via the tongue. A bottle will cost approximately $7. Buy several bottles and keep them around the house, in the car, and in your purse or pocket when you are away from the home or car. We've seen from our own experiences that Rescue Remedy can reduce the length of a seizure as well as the severity.
2. Minimize stimulation to his senses. Many seizures are brought on by exposure to too much noise or bright, outdoor light. Strobe lights are a main cause of seizures in people, and similarly, excessive noise and light can be a main cause of seizures in dogs.
Moreover, you should have other people refrain from bringing their dogs near yours. Dogs have been known to attack seizing dogs since they are genetically wired to eliminate weak pack members which could cause a threat to the pack. If your dog has a seizure when your are inside, turn of any lights, do not speak, and tell others in your house to not speak either.
3. Protect your dog from self-inflicted injuries. Many canine epilepsy sufferers experience ferocious spasms that rock their entire bodies, sometimes causing the head or other parts to slam against the floor or other hard surfaces. This could lead to a serious head injury that increases the seizure time, so make sure you protect the head from any sudden jerks or spasms. If your dog has a seizure near a staircase, be sure he doesn't fall down them. While he's having the seizure, be sure to check his tongue periodically to make sure that his airway hasn't been blocked.
4. Press on his eyes. This simply means that you should apply pressure to the dog's eyes. Many experts believe that such pressure tells the Vagus Nerve to produce the chemicals GABA and glycine, two important pieces in brain chemistry. GABA, or gamma aminobutyric acid, regulates the balance of chemicals in the brain and serves as an inhibitor that turns off any out of control signals to the brain, such as seizures.
5. Take some time to give loving attention to your dog after the seizure. Dogs are not able to talk about their seizures, so they are probably quite scared after one occurs. Your dog will need compassion, love, and reassurances that everything will be OK. Try offering him some treats, play a game with him, or offer to go for a walk. Do whatever you are able to direct your dog's attention away from the seizure. This will help you and your dog both to move past the situation.
It is my hope that the suggestions listed here will assist you and your dog in dealing with seizures. Best of luck!
Canine Epilepsy: 5 Ways to Lessen the Impact of a Seizure
