Seizures In Dogs Do Not Need To Make The Owner Panic

Pets are in most households in the United States. Dogs are a very popular pet. They become a loving family member. Some dogs exhibit health issues throughout their lifetime. Seizures in dogs is quite common. There are different types and causes. There are unique symptoms as well as many treatments for the disorder.

A seizure is basically a disturbance of the sensory processes resulting from not normal electrical impulses in the brain. Dogs can have seizures. There are six basic types of this condition that canines can exhibit. A generalized seizure is just that general. It can be major or considered minor such as petit mal seizures.

As in humans, the grand mal seizure is more serious. It can be deadly. Initially an animal will lose control of balance as its limbs will stiffen. The petit mal type is rare in dogs. The petit mal will have the animal losing consciousness and rolling its eyes up in its head.

A partial seizure is another type that only effects part of the body. These can turn into a generalized type of seizure. A complex partial seizure is when the dog will show changes in their behavior as well as have the seizure. It could show aggression, move around quickly or even bite its own legs. A cluster type is one in which the pet will show signs from different types of seizures.

The seizure has different stages it will go through. For instance these are called the pre-ictal, ictal and post-ictal. The first stage is the pre ictal. The owner will be able to tell this stage as the animal may begin to act strangely, be anxious, whine and shake. This stage may last a few minutes to a few hours.

When the seizure is actually happening, the ictal stage has begun. No two seizures are completely the same. They can cause the animal to behave differently and do not be shocked if the dog urinates on itself. The animal will typically stiffen up and fall over. The last stage of seizure is called the post ictal. The dog may act confused, scared and even out of the ordinary. Sometimes the animal may exhibit a period of blindness.

When the dog is having one do not panic. Do not hold the dog or restrain him or her. Make sure the area around the animal is kept clear. As with a human, it is important not to put your fingers in the dogs mouth. He or she may bite and clamp down. Make sure to take away any other animals in close proximity and make contact with your veterinarian if there are complications or questions.

Animals like humans can have seizures. Being educated on the topic is one way to minimize the anxieties related to this condition. Read books or articles on the subject. Ask questions of the expert, the vet at the next office visit. Prepare a list of questions and they will be happy to answer them for you. Being prepared is the best attack for this type of condition for the owner and the pet.