What To Do If Your Dog Has A Seizure

It’s possible for seizures to be a one-time thing, but unfortunately, they often occur more than once.
Claudia Chia 16 September 2020

What is it and why does it happen?
Canine epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes dogs to have sudden, uncontrolled and recurring seizures, and can sometimes cause your pup to lose consciousness.

Seizures usually happen because of trauma, exposure to toxins, brain tumours, genetic abnormalities, or problems with Fido’s blood or organs. When the cause is unknown, it is called an idiopathic seizure.

How to tell if your dog is going into a seizure
Your pooch may appear worried, dazed, stressed, or frightened, and would either seek help from you or hide. Look out for Fido’s limbs as contractions in his muscles are an obvious sign of an impending seizure. They may also have difficulty controlling their pee or poop.

What to do if your dog has a seizure

  • If Fido is showing signs of a seizure, move him to a safe and comfortable area where there are no sharp objects or hard floors around.

  • Move any objects that could fall on your pooch or get in the way.

  • You can try placing pillows or blankets around him if he appears to be hurting himself. Do be careful as you should never put your hands or any objects in or near his mouth.

  • During a seizure, your pooch may unintentionally bite you, so avoid touching his head or mouth.

  • Canines are unable to swallow their tongue (unlike humans during a seizure), so there is no need to worry about them suffocating or choking.

  • You may touch your pup gently on his body to comfort him but remember to keep away from his head and mouth.

  • Most seizures last for about 10 to 60 seconds.

  • Should he experience anything longer, do wait for it to end before taking him to the vet immediately.

    * The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified pet health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Always make a pet health care decision in partnership with a qualified veterinary or pet health care professional.

    *This article was updated on 16 Sept 2020. It first appeared in PetsMagazine.com.sg on 10 Aug 2016.