Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in dogs, affecting approximately 0.6% of the canine population, with welfare implications for seizure episodes and the side effects of long-term medication.
Dogs with epilepsy experience acute welfare impacts during and after seizure events including fear, confusion, and physical exhaustion. Long-term medication side effects including sedation and weight gain can compromise welfare if not carefully managed. However, early diagnosis and treatment optimization allows most dogs with epilepsy to have good quality of life. Owner wellbeing is also important, as witnessing seizures causes significant distress that can affect decision-making about treatment and quality of life assessments.