What Are the Types of Dogs Seizures

Dogs seizures occur in more than one way. The six types display themselves differently. They happen without notice and are a source of stress for a family and their pet. The pet owner is able to offer comfort during a scary time for their dog. Approach their back and rub gently. Speak to your pet in calm, soothing tones.

During an episode, it is best to have children and other pets held a distance away from the dog. Remove anything close by that they could hurt themselves on. There can be a loss of bowels and bladder during a seizure and they may not be able to breathe temporarily. Having a seizure means that the dog will not have any control over their muscles. Do not try to hold them or restrain their movements. This could result in an injury to the pet or pet owner.

Hands must remain away from the dogs mouth as they can snap or attack without meaning to. The dog owner should also take the time to make notes of all of what is occurring with their pet. It will be difficult to remain calm but it may help to know that there is no pain associated with the seizures. Those notes will help the vet identify the cause and a treatment plan. Try to note as well what occurred just before the most obvious symptoms and after.

The various types of seizures are identified by their symptoms. The generalized seizure may be a grand mal or mild seizure. The mild has few symptoms and the pet will remain conscious during it. There could be some mild movement of the limbs and head. The grand mal seizure also affects the entire body but will include further loss of bodily functions. Uncontrolled salivating, and the release of the bladder and bowels my occur.

One rare type of seizure is the petit mal. There is debate among veterinarians about its diagnosis. The eyes may have a blank stare or rotate up, and there may be a short loss of consciousness. A partial seizure is so named because it affects only one part of the body. It may be one leg, facial twitching, or the head may turn to one side. It is possible for this type to progress to a generalized seizure. This is something to note for the doctor.

A different type of seizure is the complex partial seizure. It shows as unusual behaviors that may last just a few minutes or many hours. The dog remains aware through it all. They may hide and cower, become excessively thirsty or hungry. They may smack their lips and chew uncontrollably. The dog may even experience blindness during that time.

Two types can be fatal. These are the cluster seizure and the status epilepticus seizure. With the cluster type, multiple seizures will happen in a short period of time. There will be a brief time of consciousness between episodes. A status epilepticus seizure can be one long seizure to multiple seizures like the cluster type. The difference will be that there are no periods of awareness.

Since there are periods when the dog may not be able to breathe during any of the seizures, it is easy to see why these are considered life threatening. There are prescriptions available to help control dogs seizures. Working closely with the veterinarian may help your pet find relief or control of the symptoms.

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 to learn other dogs seizures and Sandra’s secret to good canine health–you’ll be surprised when you learn the truth.