7 tips for living successfully with an epileptic dog

Having a dog with epilepsy isn’t an uncommon occurrence. Just like any other disease, dogs may also have epilepsy. Unlike the common perception, dog owners with epileptic dogs are equally happy as other dog owners.

After diagnosing epilepsy in dogs, experts work on finding the cause of epilepsy. However, if the cause remains unidentified, it is known as “idiopathic epilepsy,” where no one knows the cause of the disease.

Dog breeds, including beagles, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and Shetland sheepdogs, commonly experience epilepsy. The cause is primarily unknown; it can also be a hereditary issue. Before you move on, we suggest you consult a specialist to discuss your dog’s situation so they can advise you better on how to treat the seizures.

Although the condition isn’t curable, you can successfully lead a happy life with an epileptic dog with the proper methods and tricks. 

If you have an epileptic dog, here are seven tips that can guide you to manage your life with a dog with epilepsy easily:

1. Learn about the disease 

The first and foremost step for you is to research epilepsy in dogs to understand how this condition could affect and when to reach out to medical care. Talk to your vet about your concerns and ask any questions you have about your dog’s condition.

You are your dog’s best friend, and you need to ensure what makes it comfortable and what doesn’t. Most of the medications are effective, while some of them could react as well or have adverse side effects, so you must talk about it with your vet.

Be sure to ask about alternative treatments, too. For example, treating your dog with CBD oil for pets can help reduce seizures. Colorado State University’s veterinary science school study showed epileptic dogs taking CBD supplements experienced fewer seizures than dogs taking a placebo.

2. Write it down

Writing down all the instructions and care measures helps a lot while dealing with a difficult situation. For a person who has no prior experience with epileptic dogs, consider keeping a notebook or an instruction diary where you write down all the instructions regarding the medications, etc.

This written material also comes in handy for caretakers, dog-sitters, or if you decide to change vets, simply hand over your notes so they can get an idea of the whole situation.

3. Don’t hold back

Just because your dog has been diagnosed with epilepsy doesn’t mean you cannot have fun together. Do not let this come between you and your pet; you can still play, go out, camp, and enjoy yourself with your dog.

Epilepsy shouldn’t cause you or your dog to hold back. You must take it out for walks and play. Your epileptic dog is just as normal as any other dog, and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise.

4. Create a safe space

Your house should be a safe space for your dog; hence you need to make sure there isn’t anything to bump into while having a seizure. Like with a toddler, remove all sharp-edged items from your house that could harm your dog.

Cover the edges and move things that could be an obstacle. Watch for patterns during a seizure so you can learn how to protect your dog from injury. For example, some dogs get seizures early in the morning, so you must ensure that the sleeping area is completely safe and comfortable.

5. Be prepared

A seizure can come without warning, so you must stay prepared for it. You must have the medications with you all the time and have your dog wear an identification tag. If the dog tries to run away, an ID card can help reunite the dog with its owners.

You should also plan what to do when your dog is having a seizure and think of ways to calm it. You can ask someone around you for help and try to make your dog feel as safe as you can. The more ready you are, the easier it would be for you to handle the seizure.

6. Give yourself a break

It’s not easy to take care of an epileptic dog, and it can also get frustrating when you see your dog peeing during a seizure. Consider using a carpet cleaning service to ease your stress and frustration.

If possible, keep your dog confined to areas that are easier to clean after seizures.

7. Let others know about your dog’s condition

Notify anyone who visits you of your dog’s situation. It is essential to let your friends know before having them over or meeting your dog. If you’re taking your dog to someone else’s home, you should let them know about the seizures to prepare them. 

The more support you have around you, the better it would be to deal with the situation. It will make it easier for you and those around you not to panic during a seizure.

Caring for your epileptic dog

Use these tips to help handle your epileptic dog and make it feel comfortable and loved.

You must have a strong bond of trust and love with your pet, which will also comfort your dog and feel him feel better after a seizure.

Arslan Hassan is an electrical engineer passionate about writing, designing, and anything tech-related. His educational background in the technical field has given him the edge to write on many topics.

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