Witnessing your beloved dog experience a seizure can be a frightening moment for any pet owner. While it may feel overwhelming, staying calm is the most helpful thing you can do for your dog in that critical moment. Managing seizures effectively involves being prepared, recognising early signs, and knowing when veterinary help is needed.

If your dog has a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, it is essential to seek immediate care from your trusted vet clinic in Singapore.

Why Do Dogs Get Seizures?

Seizures in dogs can occur for various reasons, including:

• Dietary Issues: Nutritional imbalances or the ingestion of toxic substances.
• Age and Genetics: Certain breeds, such as Boxers, may be more prone to seizures, though any dog can be affected.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Illnesses like epilepsy, liver disease, or brain tumours.

Understanding the potential causes can help you and your vet work together to manage your dog’s health effectively.

"People tend to use seizure and epilepsy interchangeably. The difference is that a seizure is a single event, while epilepsy is a neurological condition that involves multiple seizures." - Dr. Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BSc (Leic.)

Detecting Early Warning Signs

Spotting the signs of an impending seizure can help prevent accidents and ensure your dog’s safety:

1. Behavioural Changes: Restlessness, pacing, or appearing confused.
2. Physical Symptoms: Excessive drooling, shaking, or a glazed look in the eyes. Some dogs may also appear unsteady on their feet.
3. Mood Fluctuations: Unusual clinginess or being aloof, or changes in interactions with family members or other pets.

"If you notice these early signs, move your dog to a safe space away from hazards such as roads roads or ponds/reservoirs, especially if you’re taking a walk outdoors." - Dr. Claire Tan, BVSc (Qld.), BAppSc (Qld.)

What to Do During a Dog Seizure

The first and most crucial step is to stay calm. Panicking can escalate the situation. Here’s a list of things you can do to help your dog during a seizure:

1. Ensure a Safe Environment
2. Avoid Restraining Your Dog
3. Put a Pillow Under Your Dog’s Head
4. Prepare Pee Pads or Paper Towels
5. Time Seizure Duration
6. Monitor Body Temperature
7. Assisting Your Dog in Recovery

1. Ensure a Safe Environment

During a seizure episode, your dog may lose consciousness and control. If necessary, remove any objects that could cause injury, such as sharp items or furniture. If your dog is near stairs or on the sofa, gently slide them away to prevent falling. Otherwise, avoid moving them.

2. Avoid Restraining Your Dog

Do not attempt to hold or restrain your dog during the episode. Seizures are involuntary, and restraining them could lead to injury or increased stress. Allow the seizure to run its course, which typically lasts a few seconds to minutes.

3. Put a Pillow Under Your Dog’s Head

If possible, place something soft like a pillow or folded towel under their head to prevent injuries. Be cautious and avoid putting your hands near his mouth, as he is not in control of his bite reflex during a seizure.

4. Prepare Pee Pads or Paper Towel

During seizure, some dogs may not be able to control their bowels, so owners may expect that they may soil themselves. If possible, prepare some pee pads or paper towel to minimise messes.

5. Time the Seizure Duration

Use a stopwatch or note the time when the seizure begins and ends. If it lasts more than five minutes, it’s a medical emergency, and you should seek veterinary care immediately. Record details such as:

• Duration of the seizure episode
• Behaviour before, during, and after the seizure
• Possible triggers prior to episode

This information will help your vet diagnose and treat your dog.

6. Monitor Body Temperature

Seizures can cause a rapid rise in body temperature due to intense muscle contractions. Ensure the room is cool and well ventilated. After the seizure, if your dog appears overheated, use a fan to cool them down. Avoid using cold water or ice, as it can worsen the situation.

7. Assisting Your Dog in Recovery

Once the seizure ends, your dog may feel disoriented or tired. Speak in a calm, reassuring voice and keep him in a quiet, dimly lit room. Avoid offering food or water until he are fully alert and steady.

More importantly, call your vet and bring your dog in for a physical examination.

Are Dog Seizures Fatal?

Seizures in dogs are not typically fatal, though they can be distressing for owners to witness. A single, brief seizure usually isn’t life-threatening, and many dogs recover quickly with no lasting effects. 

However, seizures caused by underlying conditions such as epilepsy, brain tumours, or liver disease can have serious health implications.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the condition and maintaining your dog’s quality of life. If your dog experiences seizures, don’t hesitate to seek professional vet advice. 

Contact us today at 6950 4533 (Jalan Besar) or 6727 7511 (Parksuites, Holland Grove Rd) —we’re here to help.