A seizure is
the result of excessive
stimulation to parts of the
brain that control muscle
activity. All people and animals
have the potential to seizure.
We all have a threshold of
stimulation over which we would
experience a seizure. For
healthy people and animals, it
might take trauma to the head to
induce this activity. For
others, like epileptics (who
have lower "thresholds"), it may
be sudden noises, the stress of
company, or other mild
stimulations.
Pressures from brain tumors,
hemorrhage or infection can also
contribute to a jump over the
normal threshold, resulting in
seizure activity. So can being
deprived of oxygen, as can
happen with heart conditions
where there is sudden
interruption of blood flow to
the brain. Exposure to toxic
chemicals can also result in
seizures.
Any dog that has a seizure
should have a complete
examination. Your veterinarian
will evaluate heart function and
general body condition. A
complete history is also taken
to rule out trauma and toxic
exposure.
If the physical examination
is normal, blood profiles are
generally administered to rule
out diseases of the kidneys and
liver. If the profile and exam
are normal and the dog is under
four years of age, epilepsy is
generally the diagnosis.
Epilepsy is the most common
cause of seizures in dogs.
Medications may be prescribed
for these cases.
Older dogs that have normal
lab and exam findings may be
referred to a neurologist for a
second opinion, as these dogs
can have brain tumors and other
conditions.
If your dog has a seizure,
make sure to schedule an
examination with your
veterinarian to keep your pet in
good health.
AHAA website,
healthypet.com
