It doesn’t matter whether you’re watching a human being or a dog having an epileptic fit, the experience is an immensely distressing one.  It is also an experience that may be more common than you think.  Margaret James of the Phyllis Croft Foundation for Canine Epilepsy believes that the figure of 1% of dogs suffering from epilepsy is a conservative estimate.  Whilst diagnosis of your four-legged companion with Epilepsy can be deeply concerning, there is support for owners out there.

What is Canine Epilepsy?

            Canine Epilepsy is where a dog experiences several fits of seizures.  These are caused when the brain emits abnormal electrical impulses.  There are many causes of epilepsy and many different beliefs into what leads to those causes.  You just have to look at Human epilepsy to appreciate the diversity of beliefs, which range from vaccinations and diets, through to the flashing lights generated by computer games or television screens.  As with human epilepsy, dogs may appear to be completely healthy apart from the epileptic fits.

            There are three classifications of epilepsy; idiopathic, symptomatic, and cryptogenic.  The definitions are based upon what is believed to be the cause of the fits.  If the cause of the epilepsy cannot be determined, then it may be referred to as idiopathic.  Symptomatic epilepsy is where there is known trigger for the fits and seizures.  For example, if a dog suffered a severe knock to the head causing bleeding in the brain, epilepsy could occur as a result of this knock.  Cryptogenic epilepsy is where a cause is suspected, but cannot be proven.  Taking the previous example where a dog suffered the knock to its head, a bleed within the brain may be suspected, but following investigation no bleeding may be found.

What actually happens?

            Canine Epilepsy may be identified early on in a dog’s life, between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, but can be diagnosed at any time, particularly if the epilepsy is a side effect of another disease or trauma.

            Fits may last for a few minutes, but the length can vary.  This could include the dog lying on the ground with their head and neck jerking back and forth, and their legs twitching.  Some dogs lose control of other muscles including their bowels and bladder.  Dogs may briefly fall unconscious and as a result experience little pain during the fit itself, although they may experience some minor aches and pain afterwards.

            When epilepsy is diagnosed, your vet should recommend maintaining a diary of the seizures.  This can be crucial in trying to identify a cause, but can also help you as the owner predict in the future when a fit may occur.  Just like humans, dogs are individuals and react differently to fits.  Some will be restless before a seizure, others lethargic, thirsty or even affectionate.

What should I do during a fit?

            Distressing as it is, there is nothing you can do to stop the fit.  Make sure that there is nothing around to harm your dog during fitting, like portable heaters or objects on furniture that can be dislodged if knocked.  Once the seizure has stopped, keep the room quiet whilst your dog fully recovers.  Make sure there is water and food available and be there to help them if they seem disorientated, but it may not be wise to approach them until they seem ready for you.  If seizures increase their duration or frequency, contact your vet as soon as possible.

What treatment is available?

            There is no cure for epilepsy, although anti-epileptic medication exists can allow a dog to lead a happy and long life.  The treatment will depend upon the type of epilepsy and the frequency and duration of seizures.  There are also a variety of non-medical treatments being investigated, including that of diet.  Known as Ketogenic, the diet is high fat, moderate protein and low in carbohydrates, and is used as an alternative treatment for children.  Never change your dog’s medication without discussing it with your vet beforehand.

Can Epilepsy Be Prevented?

            Epilepsy can occur for a variety of reasons, although studies have shown that some breeds are more susceptible than others, including German Shepherds, Labradors, Retrievers and some Spaniels.  It has been noted that there is a higher incidence of epilepsy in Golden Retriever and Labrador males, than there is in the females.  As a result of this possible hereditary link, once a dog has been diagnosed, it is unwise to use them as breeding stock.  Epileptic female dogs may be most susceptible to fits when in season, so having them spayed could help reduce the number of seizures.

Where Can I Get Support?

            Close liaison with your vet is vital, and in the UK, the Phyllis Croft Foundation For Canine Epilepsy is a registered charity that exists to bring support to owners and their dogs as well as raise awareness of Canine Epilepsy.  Dr Phyllis Croft qualified as a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 1950, and specialised in Canine Epilepsy when her own Beagle pups began having fits.  Her book ‘The Management of Epilepsy in Dogs’ (ISBN 1850540977) was published in 1984. 

            Aware of the myths and prejudice that surround epilepsy, the Foundation’s role is to provide support for the owner, and through the sharing of other member experiences and friendship, demonstrate that this need not be an isolating experience.  The organisation produces a quarterly newsletter ‘Brainwave’ detailing new developments in treatments, advice from Dr Croft, and member’s stories.   Offering similar mutual support is the Canine Epilepsy Support Group.

            Diagnosis of Canine Epilepsy can be traumatic and a shock for the family.  The important point to remember is that you shouldn’t make any rush decisions.  Don’t let the ignorance of family and friends recommend euthanasia, when practical advise and support could lead to your dog having a long and happy life.  There is advice available to help your dog cope, and support for you too.  And as the search continues for better treatments for human epilepsy, so too does the search for canine epilepsy. 

Further Information

The Phyllis Croft Foundation for Canine Epilepsy
77 Upland Road
Billericay
Essex
CM12 0LD

The Canine Epilepsy Support Group
21 Sea Lane
East Preston
Littlehampton
West Sussex, 
BN16 1NH