Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder in dogs, causing recurrent seizures that distress both the animal and its owners. Effective long-term management maintains quality of life for the majority of affected dogs.
Canine epilepsy causes significant welfare impact both during seizures and in the inter-ictal period. Seizures themselves involve loss of consciousness, violent muscle contractions, paddling, urination, and defecation — experiences that are physically exhausting and frightening for the animal on recovery. The post-ictal phase (confusion and disorientation following a seizure) can last minutes to hours and involves genuine distress. Between seizures, many dogs on anticonvulsant medication experience side effects including sedation, increased appetite and thirst, and liver stress that require ongoing monitoring. Despite these challenges, most dogs with controlled epilepsy lead happy, fulfilling lives. Owner education is critical: learning to recognise seizure types, maintain accurate seizure diaries, understand medication protocols, and respond appropriately to cluster seizures and status epilepticus protects both the dog and the owner-dog relationship.