Question:
Our Australian shepherd mix dog, Bear, has begun having seizures. At first he would come out of them and be completely himself. But, just recently, he had three seizures in one day and was listless all the next day (although he did eat).We don't know his history, as we adopted him after he had been abandoned. Since we have had him we have noticed he has tenderness along his back. We're guessing he may be about 10 years old.Can you tell us what causes these seizures and if there is any treatment for them?.
A.L., Herndersonville, NC May 15, 2005
Answer:
Seizures can be caused by a variety of factors, some metabolic, others related to brain diseases including cancer and post-distemper complications. Canine epilepsy can also be idiopathic (of no identifiable cause), often with a possible hereditary origin.Drugs like phenobarbital, primidone and potassium bromide can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. Placing packs of crushed ice or bags of frozen peas on the lower part of your dog's back may help shorten the seizure and reduce its severity.
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