What are the causes of seizures in dogs

No dog owner would want to see the pet seize. Watching the pet keel over and salivate; paddle its paws uncontrollably while whining piteously would be a traumatic experience for a pet owner. The first reaction of a pet owner is to run and approach the pet that seems to be in agonizing pain. It is not uncommon for dog owners that saw a seizing dog for the first time to get injured while trying to help the pet.

Canine seizures can last for a couple of minutes but severe forms of seizures can last for hours. Although it is quite hard to do an owner of a seizing dog must not panic. The very first thing that a pet owner must do is to ensure that the pet is comfortable and that no further injuries will happen to the dog. Move the dog away from places where it can fall and remove objects that can cause injuries. Dimming the light and keeping the environment as quiet as possible can calm the seizing dog.

Owners of seizing dogs would not want other pet owners to have the same scary experience. What can be more alarming is the fact that seizures are often not a one-time episode thus a pet owner has to be prepared for the next occurrence. Canine seizure can be due to a variety of reasons. The most common of which is canine epilepsy. The recurring seizures are caused by the uncontrolled activity of the brain. This type of seizure is more prevalent in Cocker Spaniel, GSD, Keeshond and Poodle. Brain tumors that develop and put pressure on the brain area where it is growing is another reason why a dog can have seizures.

Medical conditions such as canine distemper, kidney and liver disease as well as the tick borne Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme disease can be the reason for the dog's seizure. Seizure is one of the symptoms of these diseases. Dogs would eat anything. Even well fed ones will not steer clear of the trash can to rummage for spoiled food.

The curious nature often leads the dog to danger. Ingesting toxic substances is a common cause of canine deaths. Seizing dogs that have ingested toxic substances have a good chance of recovery more so if the poisonous substance was identified and immediate medical assistance was given to the pet. Not like other kind of seizures, seizure resulting from poisoning needs urgent medical attention.

Sarah's Dogs provides more information on why dogs have seizures and dog first aid.