When my 6-pound yorkie, Rico, hopped off my lap after his relaxing Sunday nap, he walked with a wobble on the carpet beneath me. I chuckled under my breath, thinking he was disoriented from his deep sleep.
When Rico stopped wobbling and stood still, I realized then something wasn’t quite right. Before I could get up from the couch, he fell to his side and began shaking. His legs were stiff, and he was drooling.
Rico’s first seizure was in 2014, and he has had six since then.
My family and I were alarmed and worried for a long time. However, after learning more about his diagnosis, we adapted to our new reality.
March 26 is National Epilepsy Awareness Day. This disorder not only affects us but our pets, too.
Canine Epilepsy
Epilepsy is caused by brain abnormalities resulting in reoccurring unprovoked seizures. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), canine epilepsy affects almost 1% of dogs.
As with people, there are three types of canine epilepsy: idiopathic, structural and unknown. Idiopathic epilepsy is presumed to be inherited through genetics, while structural epilepsy stems from anatomical brain issues. Epilepsy of unknown causes is not related to brain structure abnormalities. However, canine epilepsy can be more difficult to diagnose, according to the AKC.
Dogs can experience two types of seizures: generalized and focal. Generalized seizures emanate from both sides of the brain and affect the entire body. This type of seizure has the symptoms my dog Rico experienced – involuntary muscle movement, salivation and lack of environmental awareness. Focal seizures are caused by one part of the brain and affect one area of the body, and symptoms include unusual facial movements, behavioral actions and involuntary bodily functions such as salivation or vomiting.
What To Do If This Happens to Your Dog
The AKC recommends that if you think your pet is experiencing a seizure, it is important to pay attention to how it is affecting them while it occurs, how long it lasts and how often they happen.
Rico’s seizures typically last a few minutes, and he returns to his usual playful self shortly after. However, some pets may have trouble moving and experience anxiety, blindness or other behavioral changes after the seizure ends. If your pet has a seizure, take them to the vet afterward. This will allow for potential diagnosis and treatment.
When Rico has a seizure and his muscles go stiff, I carefully hold him on my lap and calmly comfort him until it ends. It’s a scary thing to witness, especially because there’s no way to stop a seizure. However, I know it’s important to be there for him and help him recover.
If this happens to your pet, move them to a safe location, speak in a comforting tone and, above all, stay calm. Be sure to contact your veterinarian with any questions.
The Reality of Canine Epilepsy
Rico has had six seizures that I know of; yet he may have had more that I have not been around to see. His seizures are sporadic and rare, so he has not been diagnosed with idiopathic or structural epilepsy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most people with epilepsy live a full life. Thankfully, the same goes for dogs.
Rico is approaching his 13th birthday this year. Despite his recurring seizures, he is the same happy, cuddly puppy I have known since I was 10 years old. He still loves playing with his favorite toys and never fails to take his morning nap in the sun that shines through my living room window. Watch for signs of canine epilepsy and remember to cherish your furry friend – dogs really are a person’s best friend.
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