Polish Lowland Sheepdog - pons -pon the dog
Kennel Moonlake's
Sweden
www.moonlakes.com
Are you an informed PON owner ?
What do you know about canine seizures ?
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Online research has indicated that the term "seizure" refers to an involuntary contraction of muscles caused by an electrical storm in the brain. It is not a single syndrome, but rather a broad and diverse category of disorders. Major causes of seizures can be the result of:
* Hypothyroidism * Vaccinations * Brain tumors * Liver disease * Hydrocephalus * Cysts and Cancer * Eclampsia * Lead, chemicals and poisoning * Kidney failure * Low blood sugar, genetic factions, infections, etc. Common Symptoms during a SeizureA canine epileptic seizure may last anywhere from one to five minutes or longer. When it is over, a PON may seem exhausted, confused and disoriented. Some of the symptoms owners can expect during an epileptic seizure are: sudden, violent shaking; stiffness; loss of consciousness; urinating; salivating; muscle twitching; staring, altered vision.
Your family veterinarian will probably not witness one of these seizures and will be very dependent upon your description of the seizure event. Many other problems such as fainting or dizzy spells can also come and go like seizures and may look similar to canine epilepsy to inexperienced owners.
Consequently, your veterinarian will need a clear a description
of what you observed during the seizure episode to help make a
distinction between this or other diseases. To help your
veterinarian, it is a good idea to describe in writing, exactly what
you have observed as soon as possible. Most Often Used MedicationsThe most often used medications used are Primadone Mysoline, Phenobarbital (request liver enzyme checkups every few months), Potassium Bromide (avoid high salt levels in the diet), Dilantin, and Valium. Other alternative methods of treating seizure disorders and canine epilepsy include: homemade diets, eliminating toxins in the house, exercise, and supplements. Your family veterinarian is your best source for diagnosing and offering treatment options. Keep detailed records and contact your veterinarian immediately after seizures. Clearly stated, seizures are rare in PONS, but owners need to be informed of this condition.
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