Nobody likes to see their dog having a fit. It is one of the most upsetting moments you can imagine. It is not necessary to get into a state because if you monitor your beloved companion as closely as possible tragedy can be averted and you need not lose your pet. Seizures in dogs are treatable once you know what to look for and grasp the meaning of what is happening to him or her.
Seizure patterns and the symptomatic severity are unique in each and every dog. However, a typical seizure pattern has three stages, all of which can be controlled with medication. Not all fits are critical to the life of a canine.
First of all there is a condition known as a generalized seizure, also known as the grand mal seizure. Your pet will lose its balance, and stiffen its whole body as well as extend its limbs. These symptoms which are known as the Tonic phase will last for about 30 seconds. In the next stage, the Clonic phase your pet will have what looks like a running movement, as if he or she is running on the spot. He or she may contract their jaw muscles.
Next we have what is commonly called the absence seizure, although this is a relatively rare one. The eyes may roll back, and your dog may lapse into an unconscious state. Another type would be Partial seizures, and these are generally where one particular area of the body that will spasm, such as a leg or the facial area.
During a complex partial fit your pet may display bizarre behaviour such as snapping at an imaginary insect. He or she may run uncontrollably and display an uncharacteristic viciousness towards you. If this is undiagnosed and left untreated the consequences could lead to death.
Multiple occurrences of episodes is considered to be a Cluster Seizure. The behaviour may be affected in the beginning phase, and your dog may salivate continuously, or make strange whining noises. In addition to this, they may urinate over themselves. In the next stage of this condition a dog may start to convulse and become stiff as if paralyzed. In the final stage the seizures may cease, but the dog will appear dazed and confused, maybe disorientated and not appear to recognize where he or she is.
Caution should be exercised when dealing with a problem of this nature. Do not take any action such as putting her hands into the dogs mouth. Instead of taking your pet to the veterinarian you could find yourself being driven to an emergency room if your hand gets in the way of teeth.
Should you suspect that your dog is having any of the symptoms listed here, it is strongly recommended that you discuss it with your veterinarian in order to get the correct treatment. These conditions can almost always be successfully treated. Always give your veterinarian as many details as possible. Perhaps make a note of all the symptoms you have witnessed. With the correct treatment and medication your pet can live a good healthy life.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
The Reasons Behind Seizures In Dogs And Current Treatment
Diagnosing the reasons that a pet may be experiencing a seizure is half the problem. Every type of seizure is not necessarily related to epilepsy like most of us commonly believe. There are a variety of reasons for seizures in dogs, and it they can be linked to a variety of diseases or even household products.
Epilepsy is the largest reason for the problem to appear in canines and humans. It is a neurological disorder that is related to abnormal nerve brain tissue. This brain tissue receives an incorrect impulse which then affects voluntary muscles in the body causing them to twitch and convulse.
Genetics through research has been proven to play quite a significant role in the actual development of this disorder. In fact, it has proven a number of certain breeds are much more susceptible to develop the disorder. In order to be prepared, the following were included in that list; Collie, Beagle, Dachshund, Golden Retriever, Poodle, and German Shepherd.
Brain tumors which are abnormal growths on the brain are linked to the disorder as well, and responsible for more specific types of seizures. Any brain tumor is likely to apply additional pressure to an area of the brain or specific brain tissue of the canine. This pressure will result in the disorder, and may also include loss of complete coordination or vision.
Accidents that result in head injuries for canines can also be the cause for this type of disorder. An accident that causes serious injury to the cranium or brain tissue is likely to result in a seizure. It is possible for the episodes to continue after the recovery of the pet.
Environmental products are also known to be hazardous to pets at times, and may cause this disorder. Cleaning products, items used for painting, and many items we have around the house can be harmful to our pets. There are also particular foods that we love to eat which can be harmful to our pets like chocolate in particular, especially if they are in the group prone to the problem.
Parasites and a variety of diseases can also be responsible for bringing about this disorder in canines. Distemper is highly contagious and a very dangerous virus that attacks the nervous system of the pet. The disorder is likely to present in the earlier stages, but it is possible that it will continue throughout the illness.
Lyme disease can result from your pet being bitten by a tick, and while there are several symptoms including arthritis, it is also possible that they may suffer from this disorder. Treating your pet with flea and tick medication every month is the best way to keep them safe from this type of problem. A prescription for the medication can be obtained from your veterinarian and discount products can be located online.
It is impossible to protect our pets from everything that they may face in life, but we can protect them against some very serious problems. Proper vaccinations and parasite protection can help them fight disease and this disorder. Seizures in dogs can be prevented in some cases and certainly do not have to keep your pet from living a long healthy life.
Epilepsy is the largest reason for the problem to appear in canines and humans. It is a neurological disorder that is related to abnormal nerve brain tissue. This brain tissue receives an incorrect impulse which then affects voluntary muscles in the body causing them to twitch and convulse.
Genetics through research has been proven to play quite a significant role in the actual development of this disorder. In fact, it has proven a number of certain breeds are much more susceptible to develop the disorder. In order to be prepared, the following were included in that list; Collie, Beagle, Dachshund, Golden Retriever, Poodle, and German Shepherd.
Brain tumors which are abnormal growths on the brain are linked to the disorder as well, and responsible for more specific types of seizures. Any brain tumor is likely to apply additional pressure to an area of the brain or specific brain tissue of the canine. This pressure will result in the disorder, and may also include loss of complete coordination or vision.
Accidents that result in head injuries for canines can also be the cause for this type of disorder. An accident that causes serious injury to the cranium or brain tissue is likely to result in a seizure. It is possible for the episodes to continue after the recovery of the pet.
Environmental products are also known to be hazardous to pets at times, and may cause this disorder. Cleaning products, items used for painting, and many items we have around the house can be harmful to our pets. There are also particular foods that we love to eat which can be harmful to our pets like chocolate in particular, especially if they are in the group prone to the problem.
Parasites and a variety of diseases can also be responsible for bringing about this disorder in canines. Distemper is highly contagious and a very dangerous virus that attacks the nervous system of the pet. The disorder is likely to present in the earlier stages, but it is possible that it will continue throughout the illness.
Lyme disease can result from your pet being bitten by a tick, and while there are several symptoms including arthritis, it is also possible that they may suffer from this disorder. Treating your pet with flea and tick medication every month is the best way to keep them safe from this type of problem. A prescription for the medication can be obtained from your veterinarian and discount products can be located online.
It is impossible to protect our pets from everything that they may face in life, but we can protect them against some very serious problems. Proper vaccinations and parasite protection can help them fight disease and this disorder. Seizures in dogs can be prevented in some cases and certainly do not have to keep your pet from living a long healthy life.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Seizures In Dogs And What They Mean
A seizure, also known as a fit, is an episode of abnormal and excessive activity in the brain. In a human, a fit can have a large number of different effects that range from fainting, uncontrollable thrashing, muscle spasms, and loss of awareness. Seizures in dogs are no different and generally occur in similar manners. A number of things can cause them but due to the fit's numerous and unspecific symptoms they can be difficult to notice when a canine is experiencing them. Therefore it is very crucial that an owner ensures that their dog is seen by a vet immediately after exhibiting a new and odd behavior.
Just like with human being people who experience seizures, dogs with regular shaking and blackouts are usually diagnosed with epilepsy. Although not all animals who suffer from fits are actually epileptic. Merely one to two percent of canines will suffer from a fit during its life and about a fraction of that number really have epilepsy. It's still critical, however, to make sure your canine receives proper medical treatment anyway.
Signs of a dog's impending fits can include instances of moaning or growling. The animal may seem to be scared or stressed and try to get comfort from his or her owner. Other symptoms include trouble peeing, pacing back and forth, and convulsing. After the dog has progressed into a full out epileptic fit, it might black out, become uncontrollably frightened, begin shaking, or seem to be in a strange state of mind.
Many different factors can cause a dog to seizure as well as effect the progression of ones in the future. These can include the dog's genetic history, breed, and even age. The types of fits canines experience usually can accurately predict the severity and types of other attacks.
Because a seizure is a brain disorder, any signs of one you witness in your pets should be taken seriously. Appointments should be immediately made with a vet who likely, depending on his or her age, will run batteries of tests on the dogs. If the dogs are older than ten years old, you should mentally prepare yourself to deal with the fact that your pet's best option may be to be humanely put down.
In most cases the exam will consist of blood pressure tests, blood work, X-rays, CT-scans, and vision checks. And despite the numerous types of epileptic episodes, the symptoms are usually very similar. In most cases, the tests and lab work will reveal either tachycardia, kidney failure, low blood pressure, swelling of the brain, infectious disease, or a weak pulse is present.
It is very important to remember that just because your beloved pet has received a diagnosis of neurological fits doesn't necessarily mean it will die. With proper care and treatment, most forms of epileptic seizures are fairly manageable. In fact, the sooner that the condition is diagnosed, the better the prognosis will be.
Make sure to consult your veterinarian the moment you begin noticing any new behavior in your pet as he or she will have the tools and the information needed to come up with the best possible course of action.
Just like with human being people who experience seizures, dogs with regular shaking and blackouts are usually diagnosed with epilepsy. Although not all animals who suffer from fits are actually epileptic. Merely one to two percent of canines will suffer from a fit during its life and about a fraction of that number really have epilepsy. It's still critical, however, to make sure your canine receives proper medical treatment anyway.
Signs of a dog's impending fits can include instances of moaning or growling. The animal may seem to be scared or stressed and try to get comfort from his or her owner. Other symptoms include trouble peeing, pacing back and forth, and convulsing. After the dog has progressed into a full out epileptic fit, it might black out, become uncontrollably frightened, begin shaking, or seem to be in a strange state of mind.
Many different factors can cause a dog to seizure as well as effect the progression of ones in the future. These can include the dog's genetic history, breed, and even age. The types of fits canines experience usually can accurately predict the severity and types of other attacks.
Because a seizure is a brain disorder, any signs of one you witness in your pets should be taken seriously. Appointments should be immediately made with a vet who likely, depending on his or her age, will run batteries of tests on the dogs. If the dogs are older than ten years old, you should mentally prepare yourself to deal with the fact that your pet's best option may be to be humanely put down.
In most cases the exam will consist of blood pressure tests, blood work, X-rays, CT-scans, and vision checks. And despite the numerous types of epileptic episodes, the symptoms are usually very similar. In most cases, the tests and lab work will reveal either tachycardia, kidney failure, low blood pressure, swelling of the brain, infectious disease, or a weak pulse is present.
It is very important to remember that just because your beloved pet has received a diagnosis of neurological fits doesn't necessarily mean it will die. With proper care and treatment, most forms of epileptic seizures are fairly manageable. In fact, the sooner that the condition is diagnosed, the better the prognosis will be.
Make sure to consult your veterinarian the moment you begin noticing any new behavior in your pet as he or she will have the tools and the information needed to come up with the best possible course of action.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Complete Explanation Of Seizures In Dogs
There are several reasons that this condition may present itself in your pet aside from epilepsy which we are all familiar with. Some possible causes are related to brain tumors, head injuries, diseases that may be contracted such as distemper and Lyme, and even genetics can play a part. Seizures in dogs can be found in several types, as well as contracted in several different ways.
The first type can present in both mild and more severe forms (Grand Mal) is classified as Generalized. This Generalized seizure type can also be divided into two separate phases called the Tonic and Clonic, which are likely to cause a pet to mimic the behavior of running in place and lose their balance. Petit Mal is the second type, but is rarely seen in canines, and it can result in periods of unconsciousness with the eyes rolling in an upward motion.
Partial is the third classification type and it has the possibility of progressing into a Generalized type. A Partial will usually affect a particular part of the body, or one particular limb. It may only be noticeable by movements that are repetitive and jerking in a particular area on more than one occasion.
Classification type four is the Complex Partial which may include a number of more complex behaviors. It has been known to cause both visual and sensory events that will cause an animal to repeatedly perform a particular act. For instance, it becomes likely that a pet may uncontrollably lick the lips, bite on a particular paw, or even take of running for no reason.
Status Epilepticus is classification type number five and has a duration of anywhere between five and thirty minutes. This type is known to be life-threatening in certain circumstances, and it often can be difficult to record the number that actually takes place in a particular time frame. Type classification number six on the list are known as Cluster Seizures and these are very similar to Status Epilepticus and almost impossible to tell them apart.
Not only are there different types, but there are also different phases associated with this problem. There are generally three phases that each pet will go through during an episode. These phases include the Pre-Ictal, Ictal, and Post-Ictal Phases.
In a Pre-Ictal phase, the pet can be found to be experiencing feelings of uneasiness and often whining for a period of a few minutes to a few hours. When this phase has progressed into the Ictal Phase, the seizure should have already started and spastic motions of some of the muscles should be visible. In most cases, the pet will have fallen down unable to maintain their balance at this point.
Should this particular phase last longer than five minutes it then becomes type Status Epilepticus as described above. It is quite possible for many pets to lose control of their bowels at this time. It is likely that the pet will be confused, disoriented and even lose their sight for brief periods during the Post-Ictal Phase.
Should your pet experience any type that has been described, never attempt to restrain them in any way. Also, never attempt to place any object in their mouth to protect the tongue. The best thing to do for seizures in dogs is remain calm and keep the area free from objects that might injure the animal.
The first type can present in both mild and more severe forms (Grand Mal) is classified as Generalized. This Generalized seizure type can also be divided into two separate phases called the Tonic and Clonic, which are likely to cause a pet to mimic the behavior of running in place and lose their balance. Petit Mal is the second type, but is rarely seen in canines, and it can result in periods of unconsciousness with the eyes rolling in an upward motion.
Partial is the third classification type and it has the possibility of progressing into a Generalized type. A Partial will usually affect a particular part of the body, or one particular limb. It may only be noticeable by movements that are repetitive and jerking in a particular area on more than one occasion.
Classification type four is the Complex Partial which may include a number of more complex behaviors. It has been known to cause both visual and sensory events that will cause an animal to repeatedly perform a particular act. For instance, it becomes likely that a pet may uncontrollably lick the lips, bite on a particular paw, or even take of running for no reason.
Status Epilepticus is classification type number five and has a duration of anywhere between five and thirty minutes. This type is known to be life-threatening in certain circumstances, and it often can be difficult to record the number that actually takes place in a particular time frame. Type classification number six on the list are known as Cluster Seizures and these are very similar to Status Epilepticus and almost impossible to tell them apart.
Not only are there different types, but there are also different phases associated with this problem. There are generally three phases that each pet will go through during an episode. These phases include the Pre-Ictal, Ictal, and Post-Ictal Phases.
In a Pre-Ictal phase, the pet can be found to be experiencing feelings of uneasiness and often whining for a period of a few minutes to a few hours. When this phase has progressed into the Ictal Phase, the seizure should have already started and spastic motions of some of the muscles should be visible. In most cases, the pet will have fallen down unable to maintain their balance at this point.
Should this particular phase last longer than five minutes it then becomes type Status Epilepticus as described above. It is quite possible for many pets to lose control of their bowels at this time. It is likely that the pet will be confused, disoriented and even lose their sight for brief periods during the Post-Ictal Phase.
Should your pet experience any type that has been described, never attempt to restrain them in any way. Also, never attempt to place any object in their mouth to protect the tongue. The best thing to do for seizures in dogs is remain calm and keep the area free from objects that might injure the animal.
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