Seizures in dogs can be a frightening and stressful experience for both the dog and their owner. When a dog has a seizure, it is important to stay calm and take appropriate steps to help ensure their safety and well-being. Seizures can be caused by various factors, including epilepsy, toxins, or underlying health conditions, and while they are often not life-threatening, they should always be taken seriously. This guide will help you understand how to help your dog during and after a seizure and when to seek veterinary help.

1. Recognize the Signs of Seizures in Dogs

Seizures can vary in intensity and duration, but there are some common signs to look out for:

• Pre-seizure (Aura): Some dogs may exhibit behavior changes or show signs of anxiety before a seizure starts. They might pace, whine, or seek isolation.
• During the Seizure: Dogs experiencing a seizure may display one or more of the following symptoms:
  • Stiffening of the body
  • Jerking or twitching of the limbs
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Uncontrolled movements or shaking
  • Unconsciousness or altered awareness
• Post-seizure (Postictal Phase): After a seizure, dogs may experience confusion, disorientation, or excessive panting. They may be temporarily uncoordinated or stumble as they regain control over their body. This phase can last for several minutes to an hour.

2. Stay Calm and Ensure Your Dog’s Safety

While it’s normal to feel anxious or worried when your dog has a seizure, staying calm is essential. Your dog needs your support, and your ability to react quickly and appropriately can help prevent injuries.

• Don’t Try to Stop the Seizure: Never try to hold your dog down or interfere with their movements. Seizures involve involuntary muscle contractions, and trying to stop them can result in injury to you or your dog.
• Clear the Area: If possible, move your dog away from any furniture, sharp objects, or hazards that could cause injury during the seizure.
• Protect the Head: Place a soft, padded object (like a pillow or towel) under your dog’s head to protect them from injury. Never put your hands near their mouth or try to hold their tongue, as they may accidentally bite you.
• Time the Seizure: Make a note of the start time of the seizure, as the duration of the seizure is important for your vet. Most seizures last between 1 and 3 minutes. If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, it is considered a medical emergency (status epilepticus) and you should seek immediate veterinary help.
• Stay Calm and Observe: It’s important to observe the seizure and take note of what your dog is doing during it, as well as any behaviors or symptoms that may occur before, during, or after the seizure. This information will help your veterinarian determine the cause of the seizures.

3. Don’t Attempt to Give Food, Water, or Medication During the Seizure

While it may be tempting to try and give your dog food or water, or administer medication during the seizure, it’s important to wait until your dog has fully recovered. Attempting to feed or medicate your dog while they’re seizing can lead to choking or other complications.

• Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth: A common misconception is that you should put a spoon or your fingers in a dog’s mouth to prevent them from biting their tongue. This is not safe and can result in injury to both you and your dog. Dogs cannot swallow their tongues during a seizure, and forcing something into their mouth can cause dental or oral damage.

4. Provide Comfort After the Seizure

Once the seizure is over, your dog may be disoriented, confused, or exhausted. Be patient with them as they recover from the episode.

• Give Them Space to Rest: After a seizure, dogs often experience fatigue and confusion. Let your dog rest in a quiet, comfortable space away from distractions. Keep their area calm and secure so they don’t accidentally injure themselves while still disoriented.
• Hydrate Them: Once your dog is alert, offer them fresh water to drink. They may be thirsty, but don’t force them to drink if they’re not ready.
• Monitor Their Behavior: Watch your dog closely for the next several hours. They may appear a bit “off,” which is normal, but if their behavior doesn’t return to normal or they have multiple seizures in a short period of time, it’s important to contact your vet.

5. Keep Track of the Seizures

If your dog has multiple seizures, keeping a detailed record of each episode is important. This information will help your veterinarian diagnose and treat your dog’s condition.

• Record the Date and Time: Make note of the date, time, and duration of each seizure. If the seizures are occurring more frequently, this could indicate a need for urgent medical attention.
• Note Any Triggers: Pay attention to any potential triggers, such as stressful events, certain foods, or changes in routine. While some seizures occur without a clear trigger, identifying patterns can help your vet assess the situation more effectively.
• Document Post-Seizure Behavior: After each seizure, note any changes in your dog’s behavior, including their level of confusion, weakness, or coordination. This information will be useful when discussing treatment options with your vet.

6. Seek Veterinary Help

If your dog has a seizure, it’s always important to consult with your veterinarian. A thorough evaluation will help determine the underlying cause of the seizures and guide you toward the best treatment options.

• Initial Evaluation: Your veterinarian may perform blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies (like X-rays or an MRI) to rule out any underlying conditions such as infections, toxins, tumors, or metabolic disorders.
• Treatment Plan: If your dog is diagnosed with a seizure disorder, such as epilepsy, your vet may prescribe anticonvulsant medications to help control the seizures. These medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of the seizures, but they must be administered as directed by your veterinarian.
• Emergency Situations: If your dog experiences a seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes (status epilepticus), or if they have multiple seizures in a row without recovering in between, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

7. Managing Seizures Long-Term

For dogs with chronic seizures, long-term management may be necessary. This could involve a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular veterinary check-ups.

• Medication: Your veterinarian may prescribe anticonvulsant drugs such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, or levetiracetam. These drugs work to control seizures and improve your dog’s quality of life.
• Dietary Adjustments: In some cases, your vet may recommend a special diet, such as a ketogenic diet, to help manage seizures.
• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring, including regular blood tests, will help assess how your dog is responding to medication and identify any potential side effects.
• Minimize Stress: Keeping your dog’s stress levels low is important, as stress can sometimes trigger seizures. Maintaining a stable routine, avoiding sudden environmental changes, and providing a calm environment can help reduce the risk of seizures.

Conclusion

While witnessing your dog have a seizure can be terrifying, it’s essential to stay calm and take immediate action to keep them safe. By ensuring your dog’s environment is safe, timing the seizure, and seeking veterinary help, you can provide the necessary care and comfort to help your dog recover. With proper treatment and management, many dogs with seizures can live normal, happy lives. Always work closely with your veterinarian to find the best solution for your dog’s specific needs.