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Medicines to Treat Dogs with EpilepsyWatching a dog you love have an epileptic seizure is a very unsettling experience. Epilepsy occurs in all breeds of dogs, and the exact cause is unknown. Heredity may be a factor, as this disease is more common in purebred dogs than in those of mixed breeding. There is no cure for canine epilepsy, however medications are available which will help to lessen both the frequency and severity of seizures. If epilepsy is left untreated, symptoms generally worsen over time, and can be damaging to your pet.
Diagnosing and Treating Epilepsy
If your dog experiences a seizure, only your veterinarian can determine the cause. Your dog will need tests to rule out other possible causes of seizure such as tumor, infection, congenital defects or hypoglycemia. Once epilepsy has been diagnosed, medical treatment can begin. Barbiturates are generally given, the most frequently prescribed being Phenobarbital. Phenobarbital is effective in the treatment of seizures and can be given long term. It comes in pill form and is easy and convenient to administer.
Potassium Bromide is generally considered the next line of defense. Although it is not yet approved by the FDA, it is available through veterinarians for the treatment of seizures by special license. This medicine is a liquid suspension and can be a bit more challenging to administer. When given with Phenobarbital, it has a very strong anti-seizure effect. To get the maximum effect from any anti-seizure medication, it is extremely important to be consistent, accurate, and timely.
Deciding When Medicine is Needed
When to begin medication for a dog for epilepsy can be a heart wrenching decision. Medications may have undesirable side effects, however years of severe seizures can damage your dog’s brain. The general rule many veterinarians follow is to start treatment when a dog begins experiencing seizures at least once a month. At that point, the risk of the seizures themselves begins to outweigh the risks of side effects from medication.
Once on medication, the dog should see improvement. Dogs with epilepsy can live normal and happy lives, although their lifespan may be slightly decreased from this disease.
Remaining Strong for Your Pet
If your dog has a seizure, you may feel helpless, but your actions are more important than you may think. If you are visibly upset and cry out, it can actually increase the intensity and duration of your dog’s seizure. The best thing you can do is to remain calm. Do not move your dog unless he is in danger of injury where he is. Speak gently and reassuringly to him during and after the seizure.
Many dogs also seem to respond well to being held in a blanket. It protects them from injury and helps them feel more secure. When the seizure is over, do not jump up suddenly or try to move your dog. This could trigger another seizure. Continue to sit with him and comfort him until he is ready to get up and move on his own. Your dog will be back to his old self in just a few minutes.
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