7 Crucial Steps: What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure Right Now

Seeing your dog have a seizure is one of the scariest moments a pet parent can experience. I remember the first time I witnessed one—it felt like time stopped, and I had no idea what to do. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. Knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure can help you stay calm and take the right steps to keep your furry friend safe.

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What Does a Dog Seizure Look Like?

Seizures in dogs can vary in intensity and appearance. Some may involve dramatic convulsions, while others could be subtle, like a brief moment of disorientation or muscle twitching. Common signs include:

Uncontrollable shaking: Your dog may collapse and paddle their legs.
Foaming at the mouth: Excessive drooling can occur.
Loss of consciousness: Some dogs appear completely unaware of their surroundings.
Involuntary urination or defecation: This can happen due to loss of muscle control.
Staring blankly: Some seizures are mild and cause temporary confusion.

When my own dog, Max, had his first seizure, he suddenly fell over, his legs stiffened, and his body trembled uncontrollably. It lasted less than a minute, but it felt like an eternity. Understanding the signs helped me act quickly the next time it happened.

Immediate Steps: What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure

In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to panic. But staying calm is crucial. Here’s how to handle it:

Keep Yourself Calm: Your dog can sense your emotions, so take deep breaths and focus.
Time the Seizure: If it lasts more than five minutes, it becomes an emergency.
Move Hazards Away: Clear furniture or sharp objects to prevent injuries.
Do NOT Put Anything in Their Mouth: Unlike humans, dogs won’t swallow their tongues.
Dim the Lights and Reduce Noise: Too much stimulation can make things worse.

It might feel counterintuitive, but don’t try to hold your dog down. When Max had his second seizure, I instinctively reached out, thinking I could comfort him, but I quickly learned that it’s best to let it run its course while ensuring he’s safe.

After the Seizure: What to Expect

Once the seizure stops, your dog may be confused, wobbly, or even temporarily blind. This post-seizure phase, called the postictal period, can last a few minutes to a few hours. Here’s how to help:

Stay close: Your presence will reassure them.
Offer water: Seizures can be exhausting, and hydration helps.
Speak softly: A soothing voice can help them recover faster.
Take notes: Jot down the time, duration, and symptoms for your vet.

Common Causes of Dog Seizures

Seizures can have various underlying causes. Identifying the trigger is key to managing them. Some common culprits include:

Epilepsy: A genetic condition in some breeds.
Low blood sugar: Often seen in small breeds.
Liver or kidney disease: Toxin buildup can lead to seizures.
Brain tumors: More common in senior dogs.
Poisoning: Ingestion of toxic foods (e.g., chocolate, xylitol) can trigger seizures.

One of my clients had a Labrador who started having seizures out of the blue. After testing, we discovered he had ingested a small amount of xylitol from sugar-free gum. It was a shocking reminder of how hidden dangers can lurk in everyday household items.

When to See a Vet

Not all seizures require an immediate emergency visit, but some situations do. Call your vet if:

Your dog has multiple seizures in a row (cluster seizures).
The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
They don’t recover normally after a seizure.
It’s their first seizure ever.

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. When Max had his second seizure, I called my vet right away. They guided me over the phone and scheduled a check-up to run tests. Getting professional advice gave me peace of mind.

Seizures in dogs are terrifying, but with the right knowledge, you can handle them effectively. The key is to stay calm, ensure their safety, and work closely with your vet to determine the underlying cause. In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into long-term management strategies, seizure triggers, and how to prevent them.

Long-Term Management of Seizures in Dogs

Once you’ve experienced your dog’s first seizure, the next big question is: How do I prevent this from happening again? While some dogs may only ever have one seizure, others develop epilepsy or an underlying condition that requires long-term management.

My Labrador patient, Toby, started having seizures when he was five. His first one was terrifying for his owners, but after working closely with a vet, we developed a long-term plan that significantly reduced his episodes. Here’s what we focused on:

Medication for Seizures

If your dog has frequent seizures, your vet may prescribe anticonvulsant medication. Some of the most common ones include:

Phenobarbital: A widely used drug that helps control seizures but requires regular blood tests.
Potassium Bromide: Often used in combination with other meds for better control.
Levetiracetam (Keppra): A newer option with fewer side effects.
Zonisamide: Another alternative with a lower risk of liver toxicity.

It’s important to follow your vet’s dosage instructions carefully. Sudden withdrawal of medication can trigger more severe seizures. I’ve seen cases where a pet owner ran out of medication for a couple of days, and their dog had a serious seizure episode. Consistency is key.

Diet and Nutrition for Seizure Prevention

Believe it or not, what your dog eats can play a role in seizure management. Some pet parents have seen improvements by adjusting their dog’s diet. Consider:

A high-quality, grain-free diet: Some dogs have sensitivities that can contribute to neurological issues.
Increased Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, these support brain health.
Ketogenic diets: Some studies suggest that low-carb, high-fat diets can help dogs with epilepsy.

I had a client whose Beagle, Daisy, had epilepsy. After switching to a diet rich in Omega-3s and adding MCT oil, she saw a noticeable decrease in the frequency of her seizures.

Identifying and Avoiding Seizure Triggers

Just like in humans, certain triggers can set off seizures in dogs. Identifying these can help you reduce the chances of another episode.

Common Triggers

Stress and anxiety: Changes in routine, loud noises, or new environments can be stressful.
Flashing lights: Some dogs are photosensitive and react to flickering lights.
Heat and overexertion: Too much exercise on a hot day can trigger seizures.
Certain foods and chemicals: Avoid artificial preservatives, xylitol, and chocolate.
Missed medication doses: Consistency is vital when managing seizures.

One of my patients, a senior Golden Retriever named Bella, always had seizures after thunderstorms. Her owner started using calming supplements and created a safe space for her during storms, and the seizures became less frequent.

Holistic and Alternative Approaches

While traditional medications work well for many dogs, some pet parents explore alternative therapies to complement their treatment plans.

Cannabidiol (CBD) for Seizures

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity as a natural remedy for seizures in dogs. Some studies suggest it may help reduce seizure frequency, though research is still ongoing. If you’re considering CBD:

Choose a high-quality, THC-free product designed for pets.
Start with a low dose and monitor your dog’s response.
Always consult your vet before introducing CBD into their routine.

I’ve had pet parents tell me their dog’s seizures became less intense after starting CBD, but every dog responds differently. It’s worth discussing with your vet.

Acupuncture and Physical Therapy

Some dogs respond well to acupuncture, especially if their seizures stem from neurological imbalances or spinal issues. Combined with physical therapy, it can improve overall health and stress levels.

Herbal Supplements

Certain herbs, such as valerian root and passionflower, have calming properties that may help reduce seizure frequency. However, always consult a professional before adding supplements to your dog’s routine.

Creating a Seizure Emergency Plan

Even with the best management, seizures can still happen. Having a plan in place can help you feel more prepared.

What to Include in Your Plan

A designated emergency contact: Know which vet or emergency clinic to call.
A seizure journal: Track dates, duration, and possible triggers.
A comfort kit: Soft blankets, calming sprays, and post-seizure recovery items.

One of my clients kept a detailed seizure log for her Poodle, Max. Over time, we noticed his episodes increased when he was exposed to strong cleaning chemicals. Switching to pet-safe products made a huge difference!

Final Thoughts

Managing seizures in dogs is a journey, but with the right approach, you can help your furry friend live a happy, comfortable life. From medications and diet to holistic approaches and emergency planning, every step you take makes a difference.

Have you experienced seizures with your dog? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re handling it and offer any advice I can!

Case Studies & Real-Life Examples

Sometimes, the best way to understand seizure management is through real-life experiences. Here are a few stories from pet parents and their dogs who faced seizures head-on.

Case Study #1: Rocky – The Rescue Dog with Epilepsy

Rocky, a three-year-old mixed breed rescue, started having seizures shortly after his adoption. His owner, Lisa, was devastated and worried that she wouldn’t be able to handle his condition.

After consulting with a neurologist, they started Rocky on phenobarbital and adjusted his diet to a high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet. Lisa also kept a seizure journal, tracking possible triggers. Over time, they discovered that stress and sudden loud noises were major contributors.

With consistent medication, a calming environment, and dietary adjustments, Rocky’s seizures went from twice a week to once every few months. He’s now a happy, active dog who loves hiking with Lisa!

Case Study #2: Bella – Managing Senior Dog Seizures

Bella, a 12-year-old Golden Retriever, had her first seizure during a thunderstorm. Her owner, Mark, noticed a pattern—seizures occurred only during stormy weather.

Mark worked with his vet to create a storm prep routine. He used CBD oil for stress relief, set up a quiet and dark safe space, and used calming chews before bad weather hit.

With these strategies, Bella’s seizures became much less frequent, and she enjoyed her golden years in peace.

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Remember

Let’s recap the most important points from this guide:

Stay calm during a seizure. Ensure your dog is safe, but don’t try to hold them down.
Time the episode. If a seizure lasts over five minutes, seek emergency help.
Follow up with a vet. A thorough exam can identify underlying conditions.
Consider long-term management. Medications, diet changes, and identifying triggers can make a big difference.
Be proactive. Keep a seizure journal, stock up on emergency supplies, and establish a routine.

Every dog is different, but with the right approach, you can help them live a full and happy life.

FAQs

Still have questions? Here are some common concerns pet parents have about dog seizures.

Q: Can a seizure kill my dog?

A: Most single seizures aren’t fatal, but status epilepticus (seizures lasting longer than five minutes) is a medical emergency. Prolonged seizures can cause brain damage or death if left untreated.

Q: Do seizures hurt my dog?

A: While seizures look painful, dogs aren’t usually in pain during an episode. However, they may be disoriented or anxious afterward.

Q: Can I prevent seizures naturally?

A: Some pet owners see improvements with dietary changes, CBD oil, acupuncture, or supplements. However, dogs with frequent seizures often need medication.

Q: Should I wake my dog if they’re having a seizure?

A: No, never try to wake or shake them during a seizure. Let the episode pass while ensuring they don’t hurt themselves.

Bonus: Additional Resources or DIY Tips

Want to take extra steps to help your pup? Here are some helpful resources:

Seizure Journal Template: Track dates, duration, and triggers. Download a free one at Canine Epilepsy Support.
DIY Calming Spray: Mix lavender essential oil with distilled water and spray it in your dog’s safe space.
Pet First Aid App: Download the Red Cross Pet First Aid App for emergency guidance.

Appendix: Table, References, and Disclaimer

Medication Overview

Medication	Common Uses	Side Effects
Phenobarbital	First-line seizure medication	Liver toxicity, sedation
Potassium Bromide	Alternative for refractory epilepsy	Increased thirst, sedation
Levetiracetam (Keppra)	Used for resistant cases	Minimal side effects

References

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian regarding your dog’s health and seizure management.

Final Call to Action

Have you dealt with seizures in your dog? Share your experiences in the comments below! If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it with other pet parents who might need it.

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Camellia W

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