Epilepsy in dogs is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can manifest as involuntary movements, behavioral changes, or autonomic disturbances.

• Idiopathic Epilepsy: No identifiable cause, often presumed to be genetic.
• Symptomatic Epilepsy: Results from identifiable brain lesions or injuries.
• Reactive Seizures: Triggered by metabolic issues like low blood sugar or organ dysfunction.

Handling Seizures:

• Stay Calm: Epileptic seizures can be distressing, but it’s important to stay calm for both your dog and yourself.
• Ensure a Safe Environment: Clear away any objects that could harm your dog during a seizure, such as sharp furniture edges or heavy items.
• Elevate the Dog's Bed: Raising the dog’s bed or lying surface at a 15° angle can help prevent the risk of the tongue falling back and causing airway obstruction. This may also make breathing easier during or after the seizure.
• Do Not Touch the Mouth: Never try to hold your dog’s tongue during a seizure, as it can lead to injury.
• Protect from Blind Walking: After the seizure ends, dogs may experience a period of disoriented "blind walking" for a few minutes. During this time, it's important to guide them away from dangerous areas.

• Misconception 1: All dogs with epilepsy lose consciousness and have convulsions.

Fact: Seizure symptoms in dogs vary widely. Not all seizures involve loss of consciousness or convulsions. Some may present as brief lapses in awareness or subtle movements.

• Misconception 2: You should restrain a dog having a seizure.

Fact: Restraining a dog during a seizure can lead to injury. It's safer to clear the area of hazards and allow the seizure to run its course.

• Misconception 3: Dogs can bite their own tongues during a seizure.

Fact: While dogs may have intense muscle contractions during a seizure, they cannot bite their own tongues. It’s important not to place anything in a dog's mouth during a seizure.

1. AKC Canine Health Foundation's Epilepsy Research Initiative

Since 1995, the AKC Canine Health Foundation has invested over $2.8 million in 42 grants to study canine epilepsy. Current research focuses on:

• Dietary Supplements: Investigating the effects of supplements in managing epilepsy.
• Genetics and Disease Mechanisms: Exploring the genetic factors and underlying mechanisms of epilepsy.
• Gastrointestinal Tract and Microbiome: Studying their roles in the development and treatment of epilepsy.

2. NC State College of Veterinary Medicine's Companion Animal Epilepsy Research Laboratory

Researchers at this laboratory are dedicated to:

• Understanding Origins: Investigating the causes of canine epilepsy.
• Improving Treatments: Developing more effective treatment options.
• Enhancing Quality of Life: Aiming to improve the well-being of both animals and their owners.

3.UC Davis Veterinary Medicine's New Approach

Researchers at UC Davis are evaluating:

• Novel Techniques: Innovative methods to better understand and treat canine epilepsy.
• Clinical Trials: Collaborations with institutions like the Mayo Clinic to advance treatment options.