Seizures in Dogs and their Symptoms

What is a Seizure?
In order to realize the symptoms of dog seizures, it is very important to be mindful of what a seizure is. A seizure is an abnormal electrical discharge in the brain causing irregular brain function. The strength of the effect on the brain can deviate widely, with symptoms ranging from increased drooling to compression of all muscles and a loss of consciousness.
The 4 Stages
Seizures can be broken down into 4 stages, the Prodome, the Aura or Pre-Ictus, the Ictus (the seizure itself), and the Post-Ictus.
1) Prodome
Characterized by a change in mood or behavior, the prodome can last hours or even days. In humans this is often accompanied by feelings of anxiety about the imminent seizure.
2) Aura or Pre-Ictus
Signaling the start of the seizure, this stage entails shaking, whining, salivation, agitated pacing, hiding, and a general uneasiness.
3) Ictus
This is the actual seizure, and it most times lasts any where from 1 to 3 minutes. The initial phase of the seizure is known as the tonic phase. Quite often the dog will fall to her side with her legs outstretched and her head back. Muscle contractions are happening throughout the entire body of the dog, generating in a multitude of side effects. Involuntary vocalizations manifest as a consequence of diaphragm contractions. They are not an sign of pain. In fact, once the seizure has begun, the pet is in no longer awake, regardless of whether or not the eyes stay open. The dog may drool continuously, urinate, defecate, and even clear its rectal glands. This phase is quite often short, and the outset of the next phase, the clonic phase, is marked by rhythmic motions caused by the tensing and releasing of the muscles. The dog will express pacing motions, jerking, and chomping. The tongue may turn blue and the dog may have issues breathing. These are all results of the inconsistent muscle contractions that should persist less than 3 minutes. If the seizure lasts any longer than 3 minutes it is a serious medical crisis.
4) Post-Ictus
Many seizures happen overnight, and as a consequence the post-ictus may be the only actual signs of your dog’s seizure that you ever see. It can continue anywhere from minutes to days and is classified by continued abnormal behaviour in your pet. She may pace about, be restless, unresponsive, eat or drink constantly, have trouble recognizing familiar faces, and even express hints of hearing problems and hints of sightlessness.
What to Do
Throughout the Seizure
The most extremely important thing you can do for your dog during the course of a seizure is to remain calm. Your calm energy will help her stay relaxed through this upsetting suffer. If you can, hold your dog and speak to her calmly. Place something soft under her head and try to restrict her from hurting herself. Be very careful of her mouth, uncontrollable muscle spasms can lead to a unsightly bite. If you can, notice the time so you can keep track of how long the seizure lasts. Never forget, any seizure over 3 minutes is an crisis. Minimize lighting and sound and separate her from any other pets or children. It is very important to always remember that the sudden muscle contractions amount to a strenuous exercise for your dog. Monitor her temperature closely and use a cool washcloth on her belly, face, and feet to help keep her cool. It is actually possible for your pet to experience a heat stroke as a result of the seizure.
After the Seizure
During the course of the post-ictal period it is important to continue to treat your dog as you did during the course of the actual seizure. She is still confused and disoriented and needs to be relaxed and be calm. Once she begins to resume typical behavior she will most likely be very hungry and thirsty. Watch her eating and drinking to see to it that she doesn't have too much. Make a list of as many details surrounding the event as actually possible, including the duration of the seizure itself and how she acted throughout it. Any information you can keep in mind could be useful in helping your vet determine a conceivable cause. Ice cream is a recommended treat to restore your pet's blood sugar to a healthy level, but obviously moderation is key.
*Information found in this article is not recommended to substitute professional veterinary advice, it is simply a guide to help you better understand dog seizure symptoms.

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