Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in dogs, causing recurrent seizures that are distressing for both dogs and owners, but most cases can be well-managed with appropriate medication.
Epileptic dogs experience the neurological distress of seizures, a post-ictal recovery phase involving confusion and disorientation, and potentially chronic medication side effects. The fear and disorientation of seizures, while not always consciously remembered, represent significant acute welfare events. Owners often report the profound distress of witnessing their dog seize. Well-controlled epilepsy with minimal breakthrough seizures allows most dogs to have good quality of life between episodes. Poor seizure control due to delayed treatment, medication non-compliance, or drug-resistant epilepsy significantly impairs welfare. Regular monitoring of medication levels and seizure frequency is essential to optimise management and quality of life.