Canine Seizures – What You Can Do
Seizures can be a terrifying thing to witness, but they’re a relatively common and often harmless problem in dogs. Many puppies inherit a genetic tendency towards them, while others may suffer from them as a result of brain injuries or other traumatic events. Learning how to handle a canine seizure and when to seek veterinary help is an essential skill for any dog owner.
Know What They Look Like
When most people think of seizures, they think of someone falling to the ground and convulsing wildly. Dogs do experience that type of seizure, but there are other common symptoms as well. Many dogs have absence seizures, where the animal may still stand or lay as usual but seem confused and disoriented. During absence seizures, dogs often snap at thin air. Other seizures may make the dog appear catatonic or paralyzed.
Leave Your Puppy Alone
While you may want to rush over and try to soothe your puppy, the best way to handle the situation is to simply leave your dog alone. Only move him if he is near a potential hazard, such as a flight of stairs or a table with lamps or other heavy objects that could fall on him. Do not attempt to pin your dog down or place any objects in his mouth. These actions can result in broken bones or other injuries.
Monitor and Collect Evidence
As soon as the seizure begins, make a note of the time and keep an eye on it. Note how many seizures they are having and the duration of each. If you’re worried about your puppy and their seizures, it’s time to seek immediate veterinary attention from a professional.
While you are monitoring your puppy, make sure to note the symptoms in as much detail as possible. Take a video of the seizure if you have a smartphone or other camera handy. This may help your veterinarian diagnose the cause or determine treatment.
Call Your Vet
While most canine seizures aren’t a medical emergency, some can be caused by tumors, poisoning, and other serious illnesses. If this is your dog’s first seizure, or if the seizure is unusually long or part of an unusual cluster of seizures, call your vet immediately for further advice.
Conclusion
Seizures look terrifying, but they are usually harmless and over quickly. Remain calm, make sure your puppy is safe and make a record of the symptoms. With that information, your veterinarian can help you determine the best course of action to keep your beloved pet safe and happy.
Canine Seizures: What to do if Your Dog is Suffering from Seizures, #petHealth Click To Tweet
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Does your dog (or cat) have seizures?
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