Vet Insights: Effective Natural Remedies for Controlling Dog Seizures
Seizures in dogs, whether mild or severe, can be scary.
Even the most experienced pet parents can find these episodes alarming. However, understanding what's happening and knowing how to respond can make a big difference for both you and your dog.
Understanding your dog's seizures is crucial.
Dogs can experience different types of seizures, with generalized seizures being the most common
In this article, we will go through the different types of seizures in dogs and share some natural approaches that can help reduce their frequency and severity, helping your furry friend live a healthier and happier life.
Dog Seizures: Definitions & Explanations
We'll first go through the common classifications to better understand seizures in dogs.
Cluster Seizures are defined as having more than one seizure occurring within a 24-hour period. They are a critical medical emergency and, if left untreated, can lead to a state known as Status Epilepticus (SE).
Status Epilepticus (SE) is a severe condition where a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or a dog experiences multiple seizures consecutively without returning to normal consciousness in between. SE is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Focal seizures, also known as partial seizures, occur when there is excessive neuronal misfiring happening on one side of the brain.
Symptoms of partial seizure activity typically include twitching and facial muscle contractions on one side of the body. During a focal or partial seizure, the dog may or may not be conscious.
Canine Grand Mal seizures, also referred to as tonic-clonic generalized seizures, are widely acknowledged as the most prevalent form of seizure in dogs.
Key indicators of a generalized tonic-clonic seizure encompass neck extension accompanied by stiff, rigid limbs, culminating in rhythmic movement of the limbs and head.
How to Stop Seizures in Dogs Immediately At Home
Regrettably, there is no definitive method to stop a seizure in dogs once it occurs at home.
The most appropriate course of action is to allow the seizure to run its course and promptly inform your veterinarian.
Affected dogs can experience more than one seizure at a given time.
As a veterinarian, I routinely provide dog owners whose pets are susceptible to seizures with rectal or intranasal diazepam.
It is prudent to keep rectal diazepam readily available in your pet-first aid kit for swift administration in the event of a seizure.
Remember, if your dog has a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes, or more than 2 seizures in a 24-hour period, seek assistance from an emergency veterinarian immediately.
How is Canine Seizure Disorder Diagnosed?
When diagnosing epileptic seizures in dogs, veterinarians heavily depend on information provided by dog owners about the seizure event.
We often advise owners to stay calm and, if possible, record a video of the seizure activity. This recorded footage helps us determine whether the patient is experiencing a full-blown grand mal seizure or a focal seizure, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
But finding the cause of dog seizures is tricky!
Pinpointing the exact cause of a seizure event in dogs can be quite difficult. Based on the frequency of seizures and the age of your pet, your veterinarian may conduct blood tests or recommend a CT scan to check for intracranial causes. The choice of tests will largely depend on the detailed information you provide to your veterinarian.
For example:
Consumption of moldy food can lead to seizures in dogs due to mycotoxins. In older dogs, the sudden onset of seizures may be attributed to neoplasia (brain tumors) or liver failure.
Anti-Seizure Medication for Dogs Explained
It's important to note that veterinarians may not immediately start a dog on anti-seizure medication after the first seizure. Instead, they often ask owners to track the frequency of the seizures.
Typically, long-term anti-seizure medication is only prescribed after the second or third documented seizure or following a series of seizure activities.
In some cases, mild, short, and infrequent seizures—especially if they occur less than 2-4 times per year in small breeds—may not require medication.
Getting Seizure Control Naturally
If your dog experiences seizures and is currently taking seizure control medications such as Phenobarbital or Levetiracetam, it is crucial not to discontinue these medications.
Following the prescribed anti-convulsant regimen provided by your veterinarian is essential to ensure your dog's safety and to prevent recurring seizure episodes.
That being said, natural supplements like GABA, taurine, and CBD oil can be used as part of adjunctive therapy. These natural aids not only offer neuroprotection but also increase the threshold for seizure activity, thereby reducing the likelihood of seizures occurring.
How about we explore each one in detail in this part of our discussion?
Taurine Supplementation
Taurine is a non-essential amino acid found in the brain. Although the exact mechanism of taurine as an anti-epileptic is not fully understood, scientists believe it works in conjunction with GABA to activate certain receptors that inhibit excessive neuronal activity.
Additionally, taurine is thought to have neuroprotective effects by regulating homeostasis (balance) in the central nervous system, thereby preventing neuronal hyperexcitability.
GABA Supplementation
GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter found in the brains of mammals. It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, playing a crucial role in controlling and dampening excessive neuronal activity in the brain.
It's important to note that supplementing a dog with GABA won't stop an active seizure, but it does raise the threshold for seizure activity. This means that over time, it makes seizures less likely to occur.
GABA is usually available over-the-counter and should be supplemented at 500 mg per day.
CBD Extract for Dogs
Research suggests that CBD extract may help manage seizures in both dogs and humans.
While scientists aren't entirely sure how CBD reduces seizure activity, they believe it may be related to reducing calcium ions in the central nervous system. Calcium typically stimulates neuronal activity, so by reducing it, CBD may help calm the cells and decrease seizure activity.
Zumalka Tonicpet #6 with Vitalopet
For truly holistic care aimed at nurturing your pet’s mental and cognitive well-being, consider incorporating Zumalka’s Tonicpet #6 into their routine. This all-natural homeopathic tonic is specifically formulated to support your pet’s nervous system.
The key ingredient, Kalium Phosphoricum, is a natural cell salt renowned for its efficacy in calming stressed minds. This blend not only fortifies the nervous system but also helps alleviate anxiety, making it an invaluable tool for maintaining your pet’s overall tranquility.
To maximize the benefits, combine Tonicpet #6 with Vitalopet. This powerful duo works synergistically, promoting a harmonious balance in your pet’s physical vitality and mental well-being.
Invest in your pet’s health with Zumalka’s proven, holistic solutions and watch them thrive!
To Conclude…
Seizures in dogs can be frightening, but with the right medical care and holistic supplements, you can naturally reduce the likelihood of them recurring.
Do you have any questions about using natural remedies to help prevent seizures in dogs? Feel free to ask!
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