Canine epilepsy affects approximately 1% of dogs, causing recurring seizures that are distressing for both dogs and owners, but can often be well-controlled with appropriate medication.
Seizures are profoundly distressing events for dogs. During grand mal seizures, dogs lose consciousness, experience violent involuntary muscle contractions, and may urinate or defecate involuntarily. The postictal period - lasting minutes to hours after a seizure - involves confusion, blindness, restlessness, and sometimes aggression that dogs cannot control. Well-controlled epilepsy allows dogs to live normal, comfortable lives between seizures. Poorly controlled epilepsy means repeated distressing events and progressive neurological damage. The welfare stakes of medication compliance and monitoring are very high.