Canine Epilepsy - 5 Ways to Lessen the Severity of Dog Seizures

Does your dog have canine epilepsy? Here are five ways to lessen the severity of your dog's seizure:

1. Carry Rescue Remedy wherever you go. Rescue Remedy is an herbal, homeopathic liquid that comes in a small bottle and provides calming relaxation when placed in small dosages on the tongue. You can buy a bottle for about $7. Buy several bottles and keep them around the house, in the car, and in your purse or pocket when you are away from the home or car. We found that it lessened the duration and severity of his seizures.

2. Minimize stimulation to his senses. One of the main causes of seizures can be too much outside light or noise stimulation. Just like strobe lights are known to trigger seizures in humans, bright lights and too much noise can also trigger seizures in epileptic dogs.

In addition, be sure to tell people to keep their dogs away from yours. Dogs have been known to attack seizing dogs since they are genetically wired to eliminate weak pack members which could cause a threat to the pack. If you are indoors, turn out all the lights, be completely silent and instruct anyone else around you to be quiet as well.

3. Don't let your dog hurt himself. When your dog has a seizure, his whole body could violently spasm, during which time his head may hit objects or the floor. This could injure your dog and prolong the seizure, so it's important that you shield your dog's head from injury. If your dog has a seizure near a staircase, be sure he doesn't fall down them. Check his airway periodically to ensure his tongue doesn't block his breathing.

4. Apply ocular compression. OC is simply an application of pressure on one or both eye balls. This pressure stimulates the Vagus Nerve which experts claim produces GABA as well as glycine into the chemistry of the brain. Gamma aminobutyric acid is an inhibitor that acts to de-activate 'messages gone out of control', i.e. seizures, and regulates balance within the chemistry of the brain.

5. Take some time to give loving attention to your dog after the seizure. Since dogs can't communicate with humans about things like seizures, it's a very frightening experience. Your dog will need compassion, love, and reassurances that everything will be OK. Try offering him some treats, play a game with him, or offer to go for a walk. Whatever you can do to help get your dog's mind off the frightening experience that has just happened will be best for you and your furry friend.

I hope these tips help you and your furry friend cope with seizures in the future. Best of luck!