Convulsions or seizures are defined as sudden, uncontrolled bursts of abnormal activity that last from one to three minutes.  Signs may include anything from a slight twitch to salivating and foaming at the mouth.  Shaking, jerking, stiffening of the legs or entire body as well as loss of urine and/or bowels may also occur.  Epilepsy is the medical term used for dogs that suffer from seizures. Some breeds seem to be predisposed such as golden retrievers and poodles.  Others develop Epilepsy as a result of various diseases like Diabetes.  In most cases, the cause is not known.  Vets call this Idiopathic Epilepsy.

Some cases of epilepsy in dogs occur as a result of diseases like diabetes, kidney failure, and brain tumors. Those dogs are usually over six years old before they start having seizures. However, most cases of epilepsy in dogs are termed “idiopathic”, meaning that the cause is unknown. Classically the onset of Idiopathic Epilepsy is between one and five years of age, with a higher incidence in certain breeds, such as golden retrievers, cocker spaniels, huskies, malamutes, and miniature poodles.

Signs of Seizures / Convulsions in Dogs

- Localized muscle twitches.
- Lie on one side and paddle with one or all legs.
- Pupils of the eyes are dilated.
- May act dazed and stare into space.
- May lose control of urine and/or bowels.

WHAT YOU AND YOUR VET CAN DO

All dogs that suffer from seizures should be checked by a vet. Routine procedures include a physical examination along with blood tests, a urinalysis and x-rays. If an underlying problem can be found such as Diabetes or Kidney Disease, appropriate therapy may eliminate the seizures. In dogs with Idiopathic Epilepsy, no underlying problem can be found. In these cases, the seizures may be controlled but not cured.

Various anticonvulsant medications, such as Phenobarbital, are usually prescribed. Potassium bromide may be used along with Phenobarbital in certain cases. The Potassium Bromide decreases the effective dose of Phenobarbital necessary to stop the seizures. Preventative daily medications are generally not recommended unless the dog has seizures more than once a month. With proper therapy most epileptic dogs are able to lead normal lives that are only slightly shorter than normal.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Silicea: 30C (silicon dioxide) may help control seizures. One dose of two whole pellets or three pellets crushed to a powder on the tongue. Withhold food one hour before and after. Wait 30 days, then reassess. Acupuncture is effective to control seizures in certain cases.

TIP: Vitamin supplementation can alleviate and/ or reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some dogs.