How To Handle Seizures In Dogs

If you have seen seizures in dogs, then you know what a frightening experience this can be. If this is something you have not yet witnessed it is a good idea to know what things you can do to help while it is happening. There are a few steps that you can do and not do to help during the situation is occurring.

As in any frightening situation, what you need to do is stay calm. Watching a loved pet have a seizure can send anyone into a panic, but your dog can sense this. Knowing that you are nervous or in state of panic can further agitate the dog. Try and remain calm through out the whole situation.

During a seizure, your dog will fall onto his side and with the convulsions may continue to hid his head on the floor. To prevent any further damage to his head, you would want to place something soft underneath him. This can be a blanket or a towel that can be soft on his head. Remove any hard objects that are near your dog. If he is laying next to a wall, move him away from it.

During a seizure your instinct reaction would be to reach into their mouth to prevent swallowing of the tongue. Do not reach into your dogs mouth. This can be very dangerous as your dog does not realize what he is doing at this time and can clench his jaw tight on your hand causing severe damage. Do not worry about the tongue as he will not swallow or choke on it during a seizure.

Once you have taken care of all these steps, you should sit down with your pet and talk to him in a soothing way. Let your dog feel that you are there and it is not alone. You should also encourage your pet to remain lying down even after the convulsions have stopped.

Try to keep track of when the seizure started as well as how long it lasted. This information is important to your vet when you take your dog in. If your dog has had seizures before then you should know that you do not need to take your pet in every time he has one. Your dog should be taken to the vet if he is having continuous seizures within 5 minutes.

After it is over you may want to give your dog some ice cream. Having low blood sugar can be the reason why your dog had a seizure in the first place. Vanilla ice cream can help raise his blood sugar level. Do not give them too much ice cream one or two teaspoons is all that is needed. Dog food should follow after the ice cream to help maintain the sugar levels.

Seizures in dogs are frightening but being aware of what to do can help you remain calm. Your pet needs you during the seizure to reassure him it will be okay. If they are having more than one seizure at a time it is important to take them into emergency room.