Emergency Guide: What to Do During Your Dog's Seizure

When your dog has a seizure, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. Witnessing a seizure in your pet can be one of the most terrifying experiences a pet owner can face. It leaves you feeling helpless and worried about your dog's safety. If your dog is experiencing a seizure, what should you do? How can you ensure your dog stays safe? Here's what you need to know.

What is a seizure?

A seizure is a sudden, abnormal activity in the brain that often results in a loss of body control.

Seizures in dogs can appear as fullbody convulsions or small localized spasms. There are various types of seizures in dogs, and several factors can trigger them.

During a convulsive seizure, your dog may collapse, become rigid, and shake violently all over. Most dogs will drool (with foam in their mouths) and some may involuntarily urinate and/or defecate. Many dogs will also vocalize (whine, growl) during a seizure.

One thing is certain: if it's your first time witnessing your dog having a seizure, it will be terrifying and overwhelming. Take some time now to understand how to react if your dog is having a seizure.

What should you do if your dog doesn't have a seizure?

If you suspect your dog is having a seizure, try not to panic. Witnessing a seizure can cause emotional trauma and immense stress. It's important to know that your dog is not injured during a seizure. In fact, they may not even be aware it's happening (since seizures can alter consciousness).

There's nothing you can do to stop a seizure. The best you can do is stay calm and try to keep your dog away from danger. Your next steps depend on what you observe.

Before the seizure

The terms "prodromal" and "ictus" are related to the seizure itself. The period before a seizure is known as the "prodromal phase." Some dogs may start acting strangely before a seizure begins.

They might become anxious or restless. Some may wander, appear disoriented, or exhibit other abnormal behaviors. The prodromal phase usually lasts for a few minutes. Other dogs seem normal until the seizure starts.

If your dog has had seizures before and you suspect one is happening, try to move them to a safe, soft area without sharp objects or hard floors. If time allows, you might want to take your dog outside to a soft grassy area (first check for rocks).

How to protect your dog during a seizure

Move any objects or obstacles that might fall on your dog. Block off stairs and any areas that pose a safety threat. If your dog seems to be hurting itself, you can try placing a pillow or blanket on them, but be cautious. You should not put your hand or any object in their mouth or near their mouth, as you could be seriously injured. Your dog might bite their tongue, but they won't swallow it. Generally, you should avoid your dog until the seizure has passed and observe from a safe distance. Most seizures last about 1060 seconds.

After the seizure

The period after a seizure is known as the "postictal phase." Most dogs will experience fatigue and confusion.

Some may appear sedated. Many dogs will experience temporary blindness after a seizure. In fact, all their senses may become dulled. The postictal phase may last from several minutes to several hours. During this time, supervise and comfort your dog. Another seizure may or may not occur.

Is a seizure an emergency?

Fortunately, most seizures are not lifethreatening. However, they do indicate there is a problem with the brain. If you suspect your dog is having a seizure, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. You may be asked to bring your dog in immediately, depending on the nature of the seizure.

Seizures that last longer than five minutes are considered an emergency. You must get your dog to a veterinarian immediately to prevent brain damage and hyperthermia.

Additionally, having three or more seizures within 24 hours is also an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Finally, if you suspect your dog has been exposed to toxins, be sure to inform your veterinarian immediately. Some toxins can cause seizures in dogs.

If your dog has recurring seizures, record any similar seizure activity. Describe the nature and length of each phase. Observe your dog's behavior between seizures. This information may be helpful for your veterinarian, who will run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog's seizures.

Managing your dog's seizures

In cases of brain abnormalities, treatment options will vary based on the specific diagnosis and severity of the disease. Seizures can be secondary to brain malformations, tumors, inflammation, or infections.

If the above conditions are ruled out, it's likely your dog will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Epilepsy is a common cause of seizures in young, otherwise healthy dogs. Fortunately, seizures in epileptic dogs can often be regulated with medication and/or dietary changes. There are several anticonvulsant drugs that can be prescribed to prevent seizures.

If seizures occur less than once a month or are very mild, most veterinarians will not recommend medication. Like any medication, these drugs may have side effects. However, if they help control your dog's seizures, you may find the benefits outweigh the risks.

One or more of the following anticonvulsant drugs may be prescribed by your veterinarian to control your dog's seizures:

Phenobarbital

Potassium bromide (KBr)

Valproate

Keppra (levetiracetam)

Gabapentin

Phenytoin

For many dogs, anticonvulsant therapy involves a period of trial and error. Sometimes, medications may be combined, adjusted, or switched until seizures are regulated. In many cases, regular laboratory work must be done to monitor your dog's response to the medication and their overall health.

Do not change your dog's medication without specific instructions from your veterinarian. Communication with your veterinarian is crucial for successful treatment. Adhering to your veterinarian's advice is essential for treatment success.

Be cautious, and despite occasional seizures, your dog may be able to live a healthy, long life.