Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in dogs. Managing seizures effectively protects dog welfare while minimizing medication side effects.
Seizures are frightening events that cause distress to dogs and their owners. The post-ictal period following a seizure can last hours and involves disorientation, anxiety, and temporary blindness that is distressing for the dog. Poorly controlled epilepsy significantly impacts quality of life through injury risk, distress, and the effects of inadequate medication. Achieving good seizure control requires finding the right medication or combination at appropriate doses, which may take months and involve several trials. Owner wellbeing is also important as caregiver burden in epileptic dog management is significant.