Epilepsy affects approximately 0.5-5% of dogs and causes recurring seizures that are distressing for both dogs and their owners, with effective treatment available for most cases.
Epilepsy in dogs requires careful welfare management because seizures themselves cause significant distress and the postictal period (after a seizure) involves confusion, fear, and disorientation that are distressing experiences. The welfare goal is seizure freedom or maximum seizure reduction through the least burdensome treatment. Most dogs achieve good quality of life with appropriate medication, but regular monitoring of drug levels, seizure frequency diaries, and prompt adjustment of protocols is required. Owner education is the cornerstone of welfare management — knowing what to do during a seizure and when to seek emergency care prevents avoidable suffering.