What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure: A Step-by-Step Guide for Pet Owners

This pet health content was written by a veterinarian, Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. It was last reviewed on October 11, 2024

How to Handle What to Do if Your Dog Has a Seizure

Witnessing a seizure, especially for the first time, can be a heart-stopping, panic-inducing event. Your beloved pet is seizing uncontrollably, and you may feel powerless to comfort them.

While you may not be able to stop the seizure, your actions can make a difference. Here’s what you need to remember:

• You can help your dog recover more swiftly by knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure.
• Acting the wrong way can make the seizure last longer.
• Understanding the right steps will ensure your pet’s safety during this critical moment.

Types of Seizures in Dogs and Their Symptoms

There are different types of seizures in dogs, each with distinct symptoms:

• Generalized (Grand Mal) Seizures: The dog loses consciousness and experiences violent muscle contractions.
• Focal Seizures: Affect only one part of the body, causing localized twitching or muscle contractions.
• Psychomotor Seizures: The dog displays unusual behavior, such as chasing invisible objects or snapping at the air.

Understanding the type of seizure your dog has is crucial for knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure and for treatment decisions.

When Your Neighbor’s Dog Has a Seizure: What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure

Seizures became a reality for me a couple of weeks ago. My husband, Pogs, and I took a long weekend break in a dog-friendly cottage. We quickly bonded with the neighbors, who were there with their 9-year-old Border Collie, Sully.

The two dogs shared a garden area, with the older Sully patiently enduring Pogs' playful attempts. It felt like a perfect getaway, especially with a playmate for Pogs next door.

But early Sunday morning, that peaceful scene was shattered by a frantic knock on the door. My husband answered to find our neighbors in distress. Sully was in the grip of a seizure, and they knew I could help as a vet.

• In this situation, knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure or if you encounter another dog in distress can be critical.
• If you witness a dog having a seizure, stay calm.

What to Avoid When You Don’t Know What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure

When your dog has a seizure, it’s important to avoid actions that can worsen the situation. For example:

• Turning on bright lights can overstimulate the dog’s brain.
• Trying to hold the dog still can lead to further agitation.

These actions can stimulate the brain, which is already highly sensitive during a seizure. It’s best to keep the environment calm and quiet to help your dog recover.

Common Causes of Seizures in Dogs

Seizures in dogs can be triggered by various factors:

• Genetic predisposition: Certain breeds, like Border Collies and Beagles, are more prone to seizures.
• Toxins: Exposure to chemicals or poisonous substances.
• Metabolic disorders: Conditions like low blood sugar or kidney/liver issues.
• Brain tumors or head injuries: Can disrupt normal brain function.
• Infectious diseases: Certain infections can cause seizures.

Understanding these causes can guide you in learning what to do if your dog has a seizure and how to manage it long-term.

3 Basic Rules for Canine Seizures

So, what should you do when the unexpected happens? Follow these essential steps:

Rule 1: Keep the Dog Safe

• Assess the surroundings and remove sharp or hard objects, like table legs, or hazards, such as electric fires.
• If you can’t remove the hazard, protect the dog by placing cushions or barriers like a duvet.
• Only move the dog in extreme cases, such as being near a drop or an open fire.

Rule 2: Keep Things Low-Key

Sensory input like sounds, lights, and touch can prolong a seizure. Make the environment as peaceful as possible: Usher people out of the room. Turn off the TV or radio. Dim the lights and close the curtains.

• Avoid stroking or soothing the dog; stand back and monitor (source: Woodhaven Labs).
• Stay calm and quiet.

Rule 3: Time the Event

• Time the seizure to provide your vet with accurate details.
• If possible, film the seizure on your phone to show the vet later.

When to Phone the Vet for Seizures

Most seizures only last a few minutes, so it’s unlikely the vet will arrive while the dog is still seizing. Follow these steps:

• Have someone call the vet from another room while the seizure is happening.
• If you’re alone, wait until the seizure ends to call.

Be cautious of status epilepticus, which occurs when the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes. In this situation: Contact the vet immediately for urgent care.

• Don’t hesitate to make the call if the seizure is prolonged.

Sully recovered without issues, and her guardians took my advice to get her checked by a vet. Now, with the help of medication, Sully recovers more quickly after seizures, and her family feels more confident in managing future episodes.

For more information on when to call the vet for help, refer to this emergency care guide.

Post-Seizure Care: What to Do After a Seizure

Once the seizure ends, your dog may be disoriented and confused. Here’s how to care for your dog post-seizure:

• Allow recovery time: Keep the environment calm and quiet as your dog regains awareness.
• Monitor behavior: Watch for signs of confusion, unsteadiness, or continued disorientation.
• Offer water: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water, but don’t force them to drink immediately.
• Avoid feeding right away: Wait until your dog fully recovers before offering food.
• Call your vet: Discuss the event and provide any necessary details, especially if the seizure lasted longer than 5 minutes.

Knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure and how to handle post-seizure care can help them recover more comfortably.

During festive seasons, potential hazards can increase, so make sure you're informed about holiday pet safety tips to keep your dog safe and healthy.

Long-Term Management of Seizures in Dogs

Managing seizures in dogs often requires long-term care and monitoring. Here's how you can help:

• Medication: Vets may prescribe anticonvulsants to control the frequency and severity of seizures.
• Regular check-ups: Routine vet visits are essential to monitor your dog's health and adjust medication as needed.
• Avoiding triggers: Minimize exposure to potential seizure triggers like stress, loud noises, or flashing lights.
• Maintain a seizure log: Keep track of when seizures occur, their duration, and any patterns that may help your vet with ongoing care.

Proper long-term management and knowing what to do if your dog has a seizure can improve your dog’s quality of life.

When to Seek Emergency Care for Seizures

In certain situations, immediate veterinary attention is necessary:

• Seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes: This could be a sign of status epilepticus, which requires urgent treatment.
• Multiple seizures in one day: Cluster seizures can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly.
• Unresponsiveness after a seizure: If your dog remains unconscious or disoriented for a prolonged period, contact your vet immediately.
• Injury during the seizure: If your dog injures themselves during the seizure, seek medical care right away.

Knowing when to seek emergency care is crucial to ensure your dog receives prompt and appropriate treatment.

In addition to seizures, it’s important to be aware of other critical situations where immediate action is needed. Learn about 5 true dog emergencies every pet owner should be prepared for.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• “Seizures in Dogs.” American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. https://www.akcchf.org/educational-resources/library/articles/seizures-in-dogs.html
• “Dog Seizure Disorders.” WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/dog-seizure-disorders
• “Managing Seizures.” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/managing-seizures
• “Dog Seizures: What Causes Them and How to Help Your Dog.” Veterinary Emergency Group. https://veterinaryemergencygroup.com/blog/dog-seizures/