Does your dog have canine epilepsy? If so, there are five simple ways you can help reduce the severity of these attacks:
1. Carry Rescue Remedy wherever you go. This amazing liquid is an herbal remedy that was originally designed to help calm agitated animals - only a small amount is needed and is placed directly on the tongue. You can buy a bottle for about $7. You should purchase a few bottles, and have them in various locations in your home, your vehicle, and your bag for when you travel to other places. We found that it lessened the duration and severity of his seizures.
2. Minimize stimulation to his senses. Many seizures are brought on by exposure to too much noise or bright, outdoor light. Strobe lights are a main cause of seizures in people, and similarly, excessive noise and light can be a main cause of seizures in dogs.
In addition, be sure to tell people to keep their dogs away from yours. Dogs have been known to attack seizing dogs since they are genetically wired to eliminate weak pack members which could cause a threat to the pack. If your dog has a seizure when your are inside, turn of any lights, do not speak, and tell others in your house to not speak either.
3. Keep your dog safe from himself. When having a seizure, your dog's body will be shaking excessively, and he might be in a situation where he could hit his head. This could lead to a serious head injury that increases the seizure time, so make sure you protect the head from any sudden jerks or spasms. If there are stairs close to the area in which your dog is seizing, keep him from a tumble. Check his airway periodically to ensure his tongue doesn't block his breathing.
4. Press on his eyes. This simply means that you should apply pressure to the dog's eyes. Many experts believe that such pressure tells the Vagus Nerve to produce the chemicals GABA and glycine, two important pieces in brain chemistry. Gamma aminobutyric acid is an inhibitor that acts to de-activate 'messages gone out of control', i.e. seizures, and regulates balance within the chemistry of the brain.
5. Reassure your dog with a little TLC after the seizure has passed. Dogs are not able to talk about their seizures, so they are probably quite scared after one occurs. He needs to be reassured that he is still loved, still a member of the family, and that everything is going to be just fine. Try offering him some treats, play a game with him, or offer to go for a walk. Do whatever you are able to direct your dog's attention away from the seizure. This will help you and your dog both to move past the situation.
It is my hope that the suggestions listed here will assist you and your dog in dealing with seizures. Wishing you the very best!
