Canine Non-Convulsive Seizures

A sick pet is an animal-lover's worst nightmare.

Canine seizures can come on quickly and suddenly, leaving an owner feeling helpless and fearing for his pet's well being. But there are options for treatment, and many epileptic dogs lead normal lives.

Causes and Background

Canine seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, states a medical document written by Dr. Hardy of the University of Minnesota.

Dogs are either born with the condition--this is known as a congenital condition--or the condition is acquired later in life. Acquired seizures can be caused by many factors: trauma, poisoning or disease (diabetic dogs or dogs with liver problems are prone to seizures). Also, viral or bacterial infections can cause inflammation in the brain and lead to seizures and general symptoms of illness.

Whether the seizures are congenital or acquired, the outcome is the same: involuntary activity in the part of the body controlled by the affected part of the brain.

Types

Many canine seizures involve loss of consciousness, convulsions, salivation and paddling of the legs, and a dog may urinate or defecate during a seizure. But in a generalized non-convulsive seizure, known as a petite-mal seizure, a dog will pass out and convulsions will probably not develop during the episode. Non-convulsive seizures are rare, according to Dr. Hardy.

Focal seizures are another kind of non-convulsive seizure, and affect a small, localized part of the brain. Symptoms may include face twitching, repeated blinking or biting at the air.

A canine seizure generally lasts a few minutes, and a dog may seem confused and dazed afterwards--this could last several days, depending on the dog.

Warning Signs

Be aware of the warning signs.

Before a seizure strikes, a dog may become restless and whine, or become more affectionate and need comforting, according to the "Dog-Obedience-Training-Review" website.

Treatment

Dogs that have had a seizure need to see a vet.

If you think your dog is having a non-convulsive seizure, don't panic or yell at the dog, because this could aggravate the situation. Move objects out of his way, in case he does start to convulse. Don't put your hands near his head, as dogs having a seizure cannot control themselves and may bite.

Immediate treatment from a veterinarian is important. Each seizure reinforces the abnormal electrical pathway in the brain and makes it more likely that another seizure will occur. There are medications to control the episodes.

Prevention

Know the medical history of your puppy and its parents.

Dogs with a seizure disorder should not be bred--this will prevent a genetic problem from being passed on.

All dogs should also be kept up to date on vaccinations, to prevent diseases that may lead to seizures.

References

• Dr. Robert M. Hardy
• Website guide for responsible dog ownership