Dog Seizures Management Tips
Seizures occur due to abnormal motor activities in the brain. They can happen to any breed of dog and they are unexpected. A dog owner should observe each activity of the dog and point out any change of behavior.
Have an Emergency Vet Contact
Most seizures can be managed at home immediately when they occur. If the seizures happen more than two times in a period of 24 hours it’s time to call your doctor.
Seizures that last for more than 5 minutes or clusters of short seizures continuously are a medical emergency. They will prescribe medication to control the seizures. The doctor will take a number of tests to determine the cause of the seizures and if it’s serious you will be required to do a brain scan.
Document the Seizures
Start writing down the date, time, and length of the seizures. This is important information to give to your doctor later. You can also take a video for your doctor to detect behavior, pain, and weakness.
The doctor will do a thorough lab test to determine whether there are possible underlying conditions. Record any strange behavior before and after a seizure and see if there’s a particular pattern.
Clear the Surrounding
Remove anything that may harm your dog and make the surroundings as safe as possible. Make sure you block the stairs, doors, and windows. Gently place a soft pillow to cushion his head and avoid hurting himself.
You need to make the sensory stimulation as low as possible that is by reducing light and sound. Dim the lights, close the door and curtains. Turn off the radio and television if you can and keep the environment as quiet as possible.
Do Not Touch the Dog
When dogs have seizures they are usually agitated, anxious, and blind to what is happening in the surrounding. They may not be aware of their behavior even immediately after a seizure. Your dog is helpless and you might want to hold him.
Try not to touch the dog around the mouth during the seizure if the mild ones. The dog might injure or bite you. Stay calm and let the dog handle the seizure, it won’t last for long. Do not move the dog it could increase the sensory stimulation and prolong the seizure.
Cool the Dog
If the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes it is likely for your dog to overheat. You need to place a fan near the dog to help with the cooling. You can also gently wrap a damp towel on the paws and see if the seizure will stop. Apply cold water or a wet towel on the neck, head, and around the groin.
