You will recall that in the Pet Corner of last week I promised to deal with the treatment aspect of epilepsy.
Firstly, we must remember that, as is the case with many ailments to the brain, the true causes of the malady are obscure. There is a lot relating to the chemistry and physics of the brain which we do not know. In fact, research in all matters concerning the brain (disease, memory, aptitude, etc) must represent the most exciting area of biological study. Some inkling we already have, but the scientists are just scratching the surface at present.
Last week, we mentioned that the suspected causes associated with this recurrent seizure disorder of the brain are manifold. Canine distemper, a blow to the head, a bacterial infection of the brain could all precipitate an epileptic attack. The treatment therefore also has to relate to the causal agent. Consequently, we must try to deal with the factors which we know.
For example, if there is an encephalitis (inflammatory process in the brain) of a bacterial origin, then we must deal with this infection in order to reduce the epileptic seizures. Similarly, if the animal is having a bout with distemper, then there must be great supportive therapy against this disease, and hopefully, as a consequence of this supportive treatment, the epileptic symptoms will diminish or become non-existent.
Now, once your dog begins to have an epileptic fit, do not try to intervene immediately, except, for example, if he is knocking his head against concrete or any other hard surface. In such a case, you’ll drag him onto the grass or onto some softer surface, and then place some sort of soft padding under his head.
Do not place your fingers between his jaws in an attempt to prise open his mouth. Do not try to place a wedge in his mouth. You may cover him with a warm blanket or sheet or bag. In all likelihood, the epileptic fit will be over within minutes. You may now call your vet.
If he/she (after asking you a lot of questions which you will answer truthfully, to the best of your knowledge) feels you need to bring the animal to the clinic, then you should. The veterinarian might wish to assess the dog’s condition, and may wish to convince himself/herself that there is not another disease existing, which might complicate matters. In any case, the vet would hardly be administering any medication at this point.
As I said, the seizures in the case of epilepsy are short lived (three minutes or less). Anything over five minutes must be considered serious.
In terms of drugs to be administered, vets use the same medications for epilepsy as human doctors do. The dosage rates are different.
Also, the speed with which the medication kicks in is not the same as in human medicine. For example, some drugs take a while to accumulate in the animal, before one can discern any meaningful improvement in the dog’s condition. So, if there is no immediate improvement, do not conclude that the drug is not working. Usually, a medication cocktail is prescribed.
Your vet will have to prescribe those drugs which are used to counter epilepsy. Some of them cannot be acquired over the counter.
Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals. Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you do not wish your pet to have puppies or kittens, you may exploit the GSPCA’s free spay and neutering programme. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.
