If your dog is suddenly shaking, jerking, or losing consciousness, they may be having a seizure, often referred to as a “fit.” Witnessing this can be frightening, but understanding what to do and why it’s happening is crucial. This article will guide you through what to do during a dog seizure, possible causes, and when to seek veterinary care.
What to Do During a Dog Seizure
First and foremost, remain calm. Although distressing, panicking won’t help your dog. If your dog is near anything that could cause injury, gently pull them away by a hind leg or use a blanket to slide them to safety.
Avoid putting your hands near their mouth as they might bite involuntarily. Contrary to popular belief, dogs cannot swallow their tongues during a seizure.
If possible, time the seizure and record a video. This valuable information can assist your veterinarian in diagnosis and treatment. Seizures lasting longer than a few minutes can cause overheating. Use a fan and apply cool water to their paws to help lower their body temperature. Speak to your dog in a soothing voice but avoid touching them to prevent accidental bites.
Contact your veterinarian immediately after the seizure ends. Seek emergency veterinary care if the seizure lasts more than five minutes, if multiple seizures occur in rapid succession, or if your dog remains unconscious between seizures. Prolonged seizures can lead to breathing difficulties and potential brain damage. Your vet may administer medication like diazepam to stop the seizure.
Understanding the Causes of Seizures in Dogs
After a seizure, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination and inquire about your dog’s medical history, recent injuries, and dietary habits. Blood and urine tests, along with an EKG, may be performed to check for underlying medical conditions affecting the heart, liver, kidneys, blood sugar, or electrolyte levels.
Further diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI, might be necessary to detect brain lesions. In some cases, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid will be analyzed.
Seizures can be caused by various factors, including ingestion of toxins, metabolic disorders, brain tumors, or idiopathic epilepsy (seizures with no known cause). Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. If idiopathic epilepsy is diagnosed, your veterinarian will likely prescribe anticonvulsant medication to manage and reduce the frequency of seizures.
