Emergency Guide: What to Do If Your Dog Has a Fever and

Section 1: Causes of Canine Seizures

1. Heatstroke. This often occurs when dogs are active in intense sunlight, such as during walks, training, or playtime. Prolonged stays in enclosed spaces like rooms, crates, or vehicles without proper ventilation and hydration can lead to overheating. Dogs with a predisposition to heatstroke include those that are overweight, have heart conditions, have thick fur, or are not regularly exercised.

2. Poisoning. This can result from ingestion of rat poison or insecticides.

3. Canine Distemper. This is a common infectious disease affecting dogs.

4. Postpartum Spasms. This condition is most prevalent in Poodles, particularly during their first pregnancy, especially when they have given birth to four or more puppies. High milk production and hyperactive female dogs are more susceptible, with this group accounting for over 90% of cases. Dogs with fewer than three puppies are less likely to experience seizures.

5. Encephalitis. Infections or poisoning that affect the brain membrane can lead to inflammation of the brain tissue, including various types of encephalitis and encephalopathy.

Section 2: How to Respond to Dog Seizures

The most common cause of canine seizures is an epilepsy episode, characterized by muscle stiffness and convulsions. Before an episode, dogs may appear restless and may exhibit symptoms like grinding teeth, chewing, lip twitching, frothing at the mouth, exhaustion, coma, incontinence, and kicking. If you notice these symptoms, here's what you should do:

Place the dog in a safe and comfortable area, ensuring it's cool and quiet.

Cover the dog with a blanket to protect it from hard surfaces like floors and walls until the seizure subsides to prevent injury.

If the dog is rigid, immediately clear any mucus from its mouth and nose to maintain an open airway. Similarly, remove any feces or urine to prevent aspiration.

Offer water to the dog, but avoid feeding solid food. Allow it to rest in a tranquil environment.

Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Seizures in dogs can have various causes, including nutritional deficiencies like calcium deficiency, and nervous tension, such as in cases of canine distemper.

Canine distemper is a dangerous viral disease. In its later stages, it often presents with neurological symptoms, known as "fits." Dogs in this state are extremely uncomfortable and treatment can be challenging. Dog owners may invest a great deal of time, effort, and money in treatment, often with unsatisfactory outcomes. In such cases, veterinarians may advise euthanasia. The decision on how to proceed is ultimately up to the pet owner, and it should be made with the dog's wellbeing at heart.

Remember, for more information on dog fevers, you can read "What Are the Symptoms of a Puppy Fever?".