Important Information Regarding Canine Epilepsy
For many dogs, epilepsy can be a genetically inherited trait or even caused by the preservatives in the particular food that they eat. Certain breed types are more likely to have the condition due to genetic predisposition. Three different types present in canines for different reasons. Most of the time the pet affected by canine epilepsy can be successfully treated with the appropriate medication, a healthy diet and liver function monitoring.
Breeds that tend to have the genetic predisposition for this condition are German Shepherds, Beagles, Keeshonds, Belgian Tervurens and Dachshunds. Some research also points to the English Springer Spaniel as being included in this group. The condition is more common than one might think among dogs even with no genetic predisposition during the course of their lifetime. It is often linked to problems that are associated with the thyroid gland and this is considered at the time of diagnosis.
A change in diet may be the first course of treatment for many dogs because the preservatives in the food can be the main cause of many seizures. For particular breeds that are at high risk, it is wise to feed with only food that has no preservatives from the beginning and eliminate the possible chance of the problem developing. Be sure to read the labels carefully and preservative information will be indicated on the packaging.
Reactive, secondary and primary are the three types of epilepsy that may possibly present in canines. When a seizure is labeled as reactive, it involves the metabolic system. This will be in relation to kidney failure, low blood sugar or liver failure.
Symptomatic or secondary seizures have a cause that is specifically known at onset. These are usually related to a previous stroke or an existing brain tumor. Trauma can also be a likely cause for this type.
Primary or idiopathic seizures are labeled as such due to having no known cause. This diagnosis is reached when all other probable conditions have been completely eliminated. These are likely to begin in dogs that are in the age group of one and three.
There are several types of seizures that may occur lasting from momentary periods to repetitive occurrences. Petit mal are mild and may only be staring for a brief period of time. Grand mal are moderate and may last for as long as three minutes with the animal losing consciousness. Status epilepticus and cluster seizures can both be life threatening and it is difficult in some cases to differentiate between the two; lasting up to more than ten minutes with a loss of consciousness and repeating.
Several excellent medications can be used for treatment including potassium bromide, Phenobarbital and Valium. Phenobarbital is often the first drug to be administered, but the liver function must be closely monitored to prevent damage. Should damage occur, the patient is then changed to potassium bromide for further treatment. Valium is often used for the more serious seizures described and it can be given rectally, orally or injected. There are over the counter treatments that can benefit the pet after a seizure has happened due to canine epilepsy to speed up recovery time and this should be discussed with the veterinarian.
Breeds that tend to have the genetic predisposition for this condition are German Shepherds, Beagles, Keeshonds, Belgian Tervurens and Dachshunds. Some research also points to the English Springer Spaniel as being included in this group. The condition is more common than one might think among dogs even with no genetic predisposition during the course of their lifetime. It is often linked to problems that are associated with the thyroid gland and this is considered at the time of diagnosis.
A change in diet may be the first course of treatment for many dogs because the preservatives in the food can be the main cause of many seizures. For particular breeds that are at high risk, it is wise to feed with only food that has no preservatives from the beginning and eliminate the possible chance of the problem developing. Be sure to read the labels carefully and preservative information will be indicated on the packaging.
Reactive, secondary and primary are the three types of epilepsy that may possibly present in canines. When a seizure is labeled as reactive, it involves the metabolic system. This will be in relation to kidney failure, low blood sugar or liver failure.
Symptomatic or secondary seizures have a cause that is specifically known at onset. These are usually related to a previous stroke or an existing brain tumor. Trauma can also be a likely cause for this type.
Primary or idiopathic seizures are labeled as such due to having no known cause. This diagnosis is reached when all other probable conditions have been completely eliminated. These are likely to begin in dogs that are in the age group of one and three.
There are several types of seizures that may occur lasting from momentary periods to repetitive occurrences. Petit mal are mild and may only be staring for a brief period of time. Grand mal are moderate and may last for as long as three minutes with the animal losing consciousness. Status epilepticus and cluster seizures can both be life threatening and it is difficult in some cases to differentiate between the two; lasting up to more than ten minutes with a loss of consciousness and repeating.
Several excellent medications can be used for treatment including potassium bromide, Phenobarbital and Valium. Phenobarbital is often the first drug to be administered, but the liver function must be closely monitored to prevent damage. Should damage occur, the patient is then changed to potassium bromide for further treatment. Valium is often used for the more serious seizures described and it can be given rectally, orally or injected. There are over the counter treatments that can benefit the pet after a seizure has happened due to canine epilepsy to speed up recovery time and this should be discussed with the veterinarian.
About the Author:
Sandra DeMers is the author of Cory's Story, the story of how one dog conquered canine epilepsy that will absolutely AMAZE you. Visit her website for a wealth of knowledge and resources, including health considerations for older dogs.
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