That sweet little bundle of fur you brought home for the kids is getting bigger now, and needs to learn some manners. At what point does its nibbling on your fingers stop being cute? When do its “accidents” start being on purpose? How do you know when it’s a good time to start training your puppy?
Some experts have recently begun to suggest that the training process starts before the puppy is born. In the past, the prenatal period wasn’t considered in the social development of dogs because the unborn puppies couldn’t be observed. The availability of the ultrasound machine shed new light on what happens in the womb as early as the fourth week of gestation.
Scientist theorize that since puppies’ are responsive to touch at birth, their conditioning to touch begins before they’re born, possibly by nudges from the pregnant mother. Studies show that the offspring of pregnant animals are calmer and easier socialized when the mother is regularly petted.
In roughly the first 14 days of a puppy’s life it may be able to learn some associations, such as recognizing a human caregiver, but it is still so mentally undeveloped that anything he learns isn’t likely to carry over to progressive stages of development.
During the three to 12-week period the puppy begins to pick up on social behaviors. Playful wrestling, curiosity and even mimicking sexual behavior is an important part of teaching the puppy its place in the family. It’s also important that the puppy has plenty of time with its mother and littermates, where the mother will teach it to play well with others. Puppies can learn tricks and basic commands, such as sit and stay as early as eight weeks of age. At this point, it’s only limited by its still-developing coordination, concentration and physical stamina.
Obedience classes are a good place for pet owners to learn how to communicate with their animals. Some trainers offer socialization classes as soon as the puppy is established in its permanent home, but obedience classes typically want the animal to have at least started getting its initial vaccinations first, usually around three to six months of age. The longer training is put off, the more difficult it will be for both dog and handler, especially if the dog has already begun to pick up bad habits. It’s easier to instill good behavior than to try to deprogram bad behavior.
The emotional maturity and stability of the dog is equally important as the age factor in deciding when to start the training process. Often the handler focuses too heavily on making sure the dog understands the commands being issued and doesn’t pay enough attention to the information the dog is sending. This is counterproductive, because an animal that is stress, scared, confused or distracted will not learn efficiently.
2008年9月17日星期三
2008年9月5日星期五
Feeding Your Pit Bull Terrier The Right Dog Food
Pit Bull owners who love their pets obviously want to do what is best for them. They want them to have the best care possible and be happy. Part of providing the best care comes with providing the best nutrition. All of the different types of dog food produced can make deciding what is best difficult for owners. There are many selections that are very healthy and nutritional, while others are very unhealthy with little to no nutritional value. The most nutritional foods seem to be those offered by the larger companies, in part, because they routinely test for food quality and nutritional worth.
Out of all the different types of food available, dry food tends to be the least pricey. Many owners prefer dry food because they have several dogs and it costs significantly less to feed them. The quality and nutrition of dry food varies dependent on the manufacturer. One advantage to dry food is that it can be purchased in large quantities and stored for quite some time, allowing the owner to avoid trips to the store. Being able to store the food also helps the wallet, if you purchase it in bulk when it is on sale. Dry food also is easier to prepare for your dog, as all you do is pour it into a bowl. It also doesn’t smell bad, which is a plus for owners of indoor dogs. Storing dry foods for long periods of time may affect the nutritional worth of the food.
The semi-moist dog foods are usually made up of about twenty five percent water and meat products, making them very popular with most dogs, however, they are not very good for the dog’s teeth as they tend to be very high in sugar content. They are also high in preservatives and additives, which most owners would prefer to avoid. Semi moist food is usually the most expensive food to purchase. As with the dry food, it all varies with each manufacturer; ingredients, nutrition, quality, taste, are all different from brand to brand.
Canned foods win the popularity bonus hands down. Canned foods offer a full meal in one can, which is often convenient for pet owners. They usually are made from animal by products, and contain more moisture than other dog foods. They often contain the least preservatives, and are the easiest food for dogs to digest. Purchasing canned food can be expensive, especially if your dog eats a lot, or if you have several to feed.
As with buying any food, it is always recommended to read the labels, so that you know what the ingredients are. You don’t have to buy the most expensive food for it to be nutritional; you just need to be a smart shopper. It is important not to feed your Pit Bull too much, and to make sure he gets a lot of exercise. If you are still confused about the type of food that would be best, your veterinarian should be able to help.
Out of all the different types of food available, dry food tends to be the least pricey. Many owners prefer dry food because they have several dogs and it costs significantly less to feed them. The quality and nutrition of dry food varies dependent on the manufacturer. One advantage to dry food is that it can be purchased in large quantities and stored for quite some time, allowing the owner to avoid trips to the store. Being able to store the food also helps the wallet, if you purchase it in bulk when it is on sale. Dry food also is easier to prepare for your dog, as all you do is pour it into a bowl. It also doesn’t smell bad, which is a plus for owners of indoor dogs. Storing dry foods for long periods of time may affect the nutritional worth of the food.
The semi-moist dog foods are usually made up of about twenty five percent water and meat products, making them very popular with most dogs, however, they are not very good for the dog’s teeth as they tend to be very high in sugar content. They are also high in preservatives and additives, which most owners would prefer to avoid. Semi moist food is usually the most expensive food to purchase. As with the dry food, it all varies with each manufacturer; ingredients, nutrition, quality, taste, are all different from brand to brand.
Canned foods win the popularity bonus hands down. Canned foods offer a full meal in one can, which is often convenient for pet owners. They usually are made from animal by products, and contain more moisture than other dog foods. They often contain the least preservatives, and are the easiest food for dogs to digest. Purchasing canned food can be expensive, especially if your dog eats a lot, or if you have several to feed.
As with buying any food, it is always recommended to read the labels, so that you know what the ingredients are. You don’t have to buy the most expensive food for it to be nutritional; you just need to be a smart shopper. It is important not to feed your Pit Bull too much, and to make sure he gets a lot of exercise. If you are still confused about the type of food that would be best, your veterinarian should be able to help.
2008年9月2日星期二
Pet Stroller Website Offers Fun Alternative for Pet Wheelchairs
Pet Stroller Site Offers Delightful Alternative To Pet Wheelchairs
Handicapped animals sometimes are forced to be in wheelchairs made especially for pets, and although the chairs is often very useful to animals in terms of exercise, additional alternatives can be utilized, especially if the animal gets fatigued, or is simply momentarily not able to utilize a pet wheelchair. This is where disabled pets may benefit from a pet stroller. And actually,, a stroller could in truth end up very beneficial, to the animal, along with its owner.
Pet Strollers have just recently started to be popular, but there aren't very many pet shops that carry products such as these, and shops that do, offer them at a major price. Pet Stroller Mart has started selling pet strollers that are available in a variety of colors, styles and sizes that can fit varied habitats, and types of pets. And don't forget price range. regardless of whether you and your pet live in an urban or a rural area, Pet Stroller Mart strollers are designed to comfortably get through all terrains, and actually make it effortless to tote pets where they should be to be.
To illustrate, if you have got two pets that you need to transfer at the same time, http://www.petstrollermart.com offers a fantastic Double Decker stroller than can efficiently carry both animals at the same time. No need to bring carriers either since each section detach easily and quickly and can become pet carriers themselves. In addition, the stroller simply folds for storage or transport.
For animals that weigh under 25 pounds, Http://www.petstrollermart.com has an unmatched collection of one of a kind strollers so that you and your pet can get around quickly. You can go with a stroller that has a more classic carriage type, or select a more sleek pet stroller or a stylish stroller. Despite the fact that these pet strollers are built for smaller animals, they are still created with the same sturdy excellence of Pet Stroller Mart's other various offerings for larger animals.
The adjustablitiy of the pet strollers carried by Pet Stroller Mart is what really makes their products stand out from other products. For example, they even sell a unique three in one pet stroller that acts as a pet carrier, pet stroller, and even a car seat for a pet. This is just one of the primary advantages of Getting a pet stroller from Pet Stroller Mart, they will save you cash since you won't need to buy other pet storage items. All Strollers from Pet Stroller Mart are nearly effortless to keep clean and maintain, and are built for simple fold down and storage. The poly/cotton mesh fabric gives extra safety and air ventilation for your pet's transport. So look into http://www.PetStrollerMart.com today to look at their uncommon selection and prices on pet strollers. Free shipping is included in the price of all items.
About PetStrollerMart.com
Pet strollers from Pet Stroller Mart supply you the liberty to take along your family pets wherever you go. Strollers from Pet Stroller Mart are excellent for handicapped pets, small animals, kittens, puppies, small dogs, and old dogs and other pets with hip ailments or arthritic joints.
Handicapped animals sometimes are forced to be in wheelchairs made especially for pets, and although the chairs is often very useful to animals in terms of exercise, additional alternatives can be utilized, especially if the animal gets fatigued, or is simply momentarily not able to utilize a pet wheelchair. This is where disabled pets may benefit from a pet stroller. And actually,, a stroller could in truth end up very beneficial, to the animal, along with its owner.
Pet Strollers have just recently started to be popular, but there aren't very many pet shops that carry products such as these, and shops that do, offer them at a major price. Pet Stroller Mart has started selling pet strollers that are available in a variety of colors, styles and sizes that can fit varied habitats, and types of pets. And don't forget price range. regardless of whether you and your pet live in an urban or a rural area, Pet Stroller Mart strollers are designed to comfortably get through all terrains, and actually make it effortless to tote pets where they should be to be.
To illustrate, if you have got two pets that you need to transfer at the same time, http://www.petstrollermart.com offers a fantastic Double Decker stroller than can efficiently carry both animals at the same time. No need to bring carriers either since each section detach easily and quickly and can become pet carriers themselves. In addition, the stroller simply folds for storage or transport.
For animals that weigh under 25 pounds, Http://www.petstrollermart.com has an unmatched collection of one of a kind strollers so that you and your pet can get around quickly. You can go with a stroller that has a more classic carriage type, or select a more sleek pet stroller or a stylish stroller. Despite the fact that these pet strollers are built for smaller animals, they are still created with the same sturdy excellence of Pet Stroller Mart's other various offerings for larger animals.
The adjustablitiy of the pet strollers carried by Pet Stroller Mart is what really makes their products stand out from other products. For example, they even sell a unique three in one pet stroller that acts as a pet carrier, pet stroller, and even a car seat for a pet. This is just one of the primary advantages of Getting a pet stroller from Pet Stroller Mart, they will save you cash since you won't need to buy other pet storage items. All Strollers from Pet Stroller Mart are nearly effortless to keep clean and maintain, and are built for simple fold down and storage. The poly/cotton mesh fabric gives extra safety and air ventilation for your pet's transport. So look into http://www.PetStrollerMart.com today to look at their uncommon selection and prices on pet strollers. Free shipping is included in the price of all items.
About PetStrollerMart.com
Pet strollers from Pet Stroller Mart supply you the liberty to take along your family pets wherever you go. Strollers from Pet Stroller Mart are excellent for handicapped pets, small animals, kittens, puppies, small dogs, and old dogs and other pets with hip ailments or arthritic joints.
2008年8月24日星期日
Do You Want A Male Or A Female German Shepherd?
Are you looking to get a new German shepherd? A puppy, or adopted dog? Are you wondering if it is better to get a male or a female dog? Well, according to the professionals, both are equally wonderful choices. Neither is better than the other. They do have certain attributes that are gender related though. German shepherds regardless of male or female are very loyal, willing to be trained, and, they make great family pets. And, even though German shepherds are great "guard" dogs, they are not of an aggressive nature. But, there are still differences between the two.
The male dog is usually stronger, and bigger in structure, more masculine. This means he will be looking a bit more intimidating than its female counterpart. A mature male Shepherd can easily outweigh a female by as much as 30 pounds. And, 30 pounds on a dog is a lot of structure. A male dog may be a little harder to handle, although, again, if trained properly will be a worthy addition to your family.
Male dogs can be more protective and more territorial than a female. They will do what all male dogs do, mark their territory and this could also be an issue, depending on the family home grounds. Female German shepherds can be more protective of their families. This could make them jealous of other pets in the household, especially of a relationship between you and the other pets. That is why; training your dog is of top priority.
Female German shepherds will be a little more streamlined, more feminine. This becomes quite noticeable. Actually, this difference is very noticeable even from a distance. So if the look of your shepherd in that way makes a difference to you, then yes, you may want to gender pick your new dog.
If you do not use your dog for breeding it should be neutered, for its sake and your sake. Neutered dogs are easier to handle, and have less problems connected to their gender. Male dogs are very difficult to handle when on the trail of a dog in heat. And, a dog in heat comes with its own problems of messiness, moodiness and other dogs hanging around. Neutering is best if your dog will be a family pet only.
What gender you get, doesn't really matter in the long run as long as you are ready and willing to train your dog. An untrained unmanageable German shepherd can actually be a dangerous animal. Even if not aggressive, these dogs are very strong, and they can hurt someone by their sheer strength alone.
If you are adopting, which I pray you do, then you may not have a choice. But, on the other hand, you will get the dog of your heart.
The male dog is usually stronger, and bigger in structure, more masculine. This means he will be looking a bit more intimidating than its female counterpart. A mature male Shepherd can easily outweigh a female by as much as 30 pounds. And, 30 pounds on a dog is a lot of structure. A male dog may be a little harder to handle, although, again, if trained properly will be a worthy addition to your family.
Male dogs can be more protective and more territorial than a female. They will do what all male dogs do, mark their territory and this could also be an issue, depending on the family home grounds. Female German shepherds can be more protective of their families. This could make them jealous of other pets in the household, especially of a relationship between you and the other pets. That is why; training your dog is of top priority.
Female German shepherds will be a little more streamlined, more feminine. This becomes quite noticeable. Actually, this difference is very noticeable even from a distance. So if the look of your shepherd in that way makes a difference to you, then yes, you may want to gender pick your new dog.
If you do not use your dog for breeding it should be neutered, for its sake and your sake. Neutered dogs are easier to handle, and have less problems connected to their gender. Male dogs are very difficult to handle when on the trail of a dog in heat. And, a dog in heat comes with its own problems of messiness, moodiness and other dogs hanging around. Neutering is best if your dog will be a family pet only.
What gender you get, doesn't really matter in the long run as long as you are ready and willing to train your dog. An untrained unmanageable German shepherd can actually be a dangerous animal. Even if not aggressive, these dogs are very strong, and they can hurt someone by their sheer strength alone.
If you are adopting, which I pray you do, then you may not have a choice. But, on the other hand, you will get the dog of your heart.
2008年8月19日星期二
Pregnancy Stages in Dogs
Just like human females, your dog has a pregnancy schedule, and a uterine calendar that can pinpoint which pregnancy stage she is in according to her body's symptoms.
In a dog's first pregnancy stage, for example, when she is in the first two weeks of since copulation, the dog's nipples start to enlarge. When you notice this phenomenon your dog should see a veterinarian, to determine if there is a pregnancy and if so what pregnancy stage she is in.
The veterinarian will be able to tell if puppies have been conceived just by feeling the dog's stomach. Just as with human pregnancy tests, the dog's pregnancy or lack of it can be verified through a blood test. Of course, the pregnancy stage for a canine is shorter than that of humans because dogs give birth only sixty three to sixty five days after conception.
Each pregnancy stage for a dog, therefore, is only about 21 days long as compared with a woman's pregnancy trimester of three months. In the dogs sixth week of pregnancy her need for nutrition will increase as will her appetite. At this point she is truly eating for several little ones including herself, and should be fed more food accordingly. Her food consumption will increase approximately 50 percent over what she normally consumes. It is very important that her diet be balanced. For this you should take the advice of your veterinarian.
A dog that is going to have a litter of many puppies will have a visibly enlarged tummy, although there are some dogs - especially those giving birth to just a few - whose abdomen won't enlarge noticeably. For these dogs, the pregnancy stage where they are showing is about one week long. Dogs who deliver a great number of puppies tend to deliver them prematurely.
In general, your dog can deliver her own puppies without the intervention of a veterinarian. There are exceptions to this, of course, and it's important to be able to know what these exceptions are and when they are occurring.
You should call the vet if your dog has been carrying the puppies for more than 65 days, or has been having contractions for more than two hours without delivering any puppies. If your dog has given birth to a puppy or puppies but not all, and now three hours have elapsed since the last birth, call the vet. This is especially crucial if you see your dog pushing and putting in a lot of effort. If your dog is very tired and her contractions are so slight that they don't bring on delivery you should call the vet.
Once your dog has advanced to the stage of pregnancy where she has given birth you'll need to step in to give some care to the newborns. It's important that the babies have heat. A puppy crib is ideal, somewhere away from any circulating air. As puppies are still being delivered those that have been born can be pushed towards their mom for warmth and comfort.
In a dog's first pregnancy stage, for example, when she is in the first two weeks of since copulation, the dog's nipples start to enlarge. When you notice this phenomenon your dog should see a veterinarian, to determine if there is a pregnancy and if so what pregnancy stage she is in.
The veterinarian will be able to tell if puppies have been conceived just by feeling the dog's stomach. Just as with human pregnancy tests, the dog's pregnancy or lack of it can be verified through a blood test. Of course, the pregnancy stage for a canine is shorter than that of humans because dogs give birth only sixty three to sixty five days after conception.
Each pregnancy stage for a dog, therefore, is only about 21 days long as compared with a woman's pregnancy trimester of three months. In the dogs sixth week of pregnancy her need for nutrition will increase as will her appetite. At this point she is truly eating for several little ones including herself, and should be fed more food accordingly. Her food consumption will increase approximately 50 percent over what she normally consumes. It is very important that her diet be balanced. For this you should take the advice of your veterinarian.
A dog that is going to have a litter of many puppies will have a visibly enlarged tummy, although there are some dogs - especially those giving birth to just a few - whose abdomen won't enlarge noticeably. For these dogs, the pregnancy stage where they are showing is about one week long. Dogs who deliver a great number of puppies tend to deliver them prematurely.
In general, your dog can deliver her own puppies without the intervention of a veterinarian. There are exceptions to this, of course, and it's important to be able to know what these exceptions are and when they are occurring.
You should call the vet if your dog has been carrying the puppies for more than 65 days, or has been having contractions for more than two hours without delivering any puppies. If your dog has given birth to a puppy or puppies but not all, and now three hours have elapsed since the last birth, call the vet. This is especially crucial if you see your dog pushing and putting in a lot of effort. If your dog is very tired and her contractions are so slight that they don't bring on delivery you should call the vet.
Once your dog has advanced to the stage of pregnancy where she has given birth you'll need to step in to give some care to the newborns. It's important that the babies have heat. A puppy crib is ideal, somewhere away from any circulating air. As puppies are still being delivered those that have been born can be pushed towards their mom for warmth and comfort.
2008年8月12日星期二
Health Problems That Haunt Small Dogs
While none of the following problems are by any means exclusive to small dogs, they do present extra challenges for small dogs and their owners.
Teeth and Gum Problems
Many small dogs have a tendency to develop teeth and gum problems which lead to tooth loss, because they are often fed canned food as an alternative to larger kibble. Although tooth loss in itself is vexing, oral disease can lead to even more serious heart disease, compromised immune systems and other complications.
Bi-weekly tooth brushing will help prevent this typical small dog health problem. An attractive supply of crunchy treats and chews (high-quality natural ingredients and not too large, please) will also help your pup keep his sparkling smile.
"Small Dog Syndrome"
Even the smallest toy dogs are infamous for their willingness to take on dogs the size of a full-grown man. Your dog may be that brave, but he’s almost sure not to be that lucky. Protect your small dog from his oversized ambitions by picking him up when a larger dog approaches.
Injuries
Injuries make up more than their share of small dog health problems. Their tiny bones are more easily broken – sometimes, even when a small dog jumps off of the furniture onto a hard surface. As much as possible, try to cushion the normal launch spots by placing carpet and rugs underneath.
Small dogs tend to get underfoot more, and unlike the case with a larger animal, those tiny bones can easily be injured if the dog is accidentally stepped on. Many owners find the best solution is learning to "shuffle" around their dog and not lift their feet too high.
Illness
Although small dogs are typically long-lived, illness has even greater ramifications when it comes to small dog health problems. Many opportunistic illnesses like viruses and bacterial infections can take over a small dog's system much more quickly, causing them to go downhill rapidly.
Small dogs are also more prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) because of their faster metabolism. Paying attention to the first signs of any illness and taking immediate action can greatly help to keep small dog health problems in check.
While on the surface, small dog health problems might appear to be much the same as any other dog's, health issues can have a bigger effect on their tiny systems. Extra diligence on your part will help more effectively treat and prevent many small dog health problems!
Teeth and Gum Problems
Many small dogs have a tendency to develop teeth and gum problems which lead to tooth loss, because they are often fed canned food as an alternative to larger kibble. Although tooth loss in itself is vexing, oral disease can lead to even more serious heart disease, compromised immune systems and other complications.
Bi-weekly tooth brushing will help prevent this typical small dog health problem. An attractive supply of crunchy treats and chews (high-quality natural ingredients and not too large, please) will also help your pup keep his sparkling smile.
"Small Dog Syndrome"
Even the smallest toy dogs are infamous for their willingness to take on dogs the size of a full-grown man. Your dog may be that brave, but he’s almost sure not to be that lucky. Protect your small dog from his oversized ambitions by picking him up when a larger dog approaches.
Injuries
Injuries make up more than their share of small dog health problems. Their tiny bones are more easily broken – sometimes, even when a small dog jumps off of the furniture onto a hard surface. As much as possible, try to cushion the normal launch spots by placing carpet and rugs underneath.
Small dogs tend to get underfoot more, and unlike the case with a larger animal, those tiny bones can easily be injured if the dog is accidentally stepped on. Many owners find the best solution is learning to "shuffle" around their dog and not lift their feet too high.
Illness
Although small dogs are typically long-lived, illness has even greater ramifications when it comes to small dog health problems. Many opportunistic illnesses like viruses and bacterial infections can take over a small dog's system much more quickly, causing them to go downhill rapidly.
Small dogs are also more prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) because of their faster metabolism. Paying attention to the first signs of any illness and taking immediate action can greatly help to keep small dog health problems in check.
While on the surface, small dog health problems might appear to be much the same as any other dog's, health issues can have a bigger effect on their tiny systems. Extra diligence on your part will help more effectively treat and prevent many small dog health problems!
2008年8月11日星期一
Epilepsy in Dogs and Cats
Epilepsy is a non progressive brain disorder that induces recurrent seizures. It is very important to understand that there are numerous disorders that can cause seizures, and in order to make a diagnosis of true epilepsy, many of these other causes must be ruled out.
What is a Seizure?
A seizure is the clinical manifestation of a cerebral disorder that can appear suddenly out of a background of normality, and then disappear with equal abruptness. The term fit is often used colloquially when referring to a seizure.
In humans, an epileptic seizure is a definable event that can be classified according to categories set by the International League Against Epilepsy. A formal classification system specifically for dogs and cats does not exist, but seizures can nevertheless be classified as either partial or generalized episodes.
Partial Seizures
These are seizures in which a localized onset may be determined. They usually have a congenital (present at birth) or an acquired (cancer, encephalitis) cause, and can sometimes evolve into a secondary generalized seizure.
Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures are the most common type of seizures in dogs and cats. There are several variations of these seizures:
1. Absence seizures (petit mal): sudden brief loss of consciousness, rare in animals
2. Myoclonic seizures: muscle jerk of one or more muscles
3. Clonic seizures: rhythmic muscle contractions
4. Tonic seizures: increase in muscle tone in all skeletal muscles
5. Tonic Clonic seizures (grand mal): the most common form of seizure in pets
Tonic Clonic Seizures
Tonic Clonic (grand mal) seizures account for 60% of seizures in cats and 80% of seizures in dogs. They are usually accompanied by a loss of consciousness, and consist of a tonic phase, where the increased muscle tone causes the animal to fall on its side with its limbs extended, and a clonic phase, consisting of intense muscle jerking or paddling movements.
Causes of Seizures
In order to diagnose true epilepsy, other causes of seizures must be first ruled out. The questions a veterinarian must answer are:
Is the cause inside the brain or outside the brain?
If inside the brain, is the cause progressive (e.g. cancer, infection) or non progressive (epilepsy)?
If outside the brain, does the cause originate inside the body (e.g. low blood glucose, kidney failure, a liver problem) or outside the body (e.g. lead poisoning, organophosphate toxicity)?
Making a Diagnosis
If an animal has a solitary seizure, most veterinarians will advise against expensive and time consuming tests for something that may never happen again. If an animal has more than one seizure though, tests are indicated.
A veterinarian will start by taking a detailed case history, focusing on the description of the animals seizures, their frequency and duration, and the animals behavior between seizures. Ideally the seizure should be videotaped by the owner, and then shown to the veterinarian. It is important to differentiate a proper seizure from other causes of collapse such as an episode of syncope (where the heart misses several beats), narcolepsy or weakness due to another neurological problem (e.g. myasthenia gravis). Features of the description which indicate a seizure are:
1. Tonic (increased muscle tone) and clonic (jerky) muscle movements
2. Loss of consciousness (though not always)
3. Increased salivation
4. Spontaneous urination or defaecation
The veterinarian will then conduct a full clinical examination, followed by a more specific neurological examination. Blood will then be taken for full hematology and biochemistry profiles. A fasting blood glucose is useful to rule out hypoglycaemia, which is a frequent cause of seizures in dogs less than 6 months old and dogs with an insulinoma, an insulin secreting pancreatic tumor. If liver enzymes are raised, a further liver function test (bile acid stimulation) may be done. Blood lead levels should be measured in animals that may have had access to lead containing materials.
Xrays of the chest and abdomen are sometimes performed to check for any other significant disease, and fecal analysis is recommended in puppies with seizures as heavy parasite burdens have been implicated.
If all of the above tests are normal, and no disease outside the brain has been detected, many animals will be diagnosed with epilepsy as further tests are of the expensive variety. If further tests for intracranial (within the brain) disease are to be performed, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is the first step. CSF is tested for the presence of viral (e.g. Canine Distemper, Rabies), bacterial, fungal (e.g. Cryptococcus) and protozoal (e.g. Toxoplasmosis) infections. Electroencephalography (EEG) is useful for diagnosing malformations present since birth, such as hydrocephalus. Brain tumors are often only able to be diagnosed by advanced imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These must be done under general anesthesia as the animal must be completely motionless during the scan.
Treatment of Epilepsy
Once a tentative diagnosis of epilepsy has been made (by excluding all the other known causes of seizures), the animal can be prescribed anticonvulsant drugs. These drugs are not appropriate for animals with seizures caused by a problem outside the brain. The overall goal of anticonvulsant therapy is to eradicate all seizure activity, but this is rarely achieved. Most pets benefit from anticonvulsant drugs by reducing the frequency, severity and duration of their seizures. A more realistic goal is to reduce the frequency of the seizures to a level that is acceptable for the owner, without having negative side effects for the animal. A minority of animals require such high doses of anticonvulsant drugs to suppress their seizures that the adverse effects caused by it outweigh the benefits.
Since epilepsy is not curable, the owner must be prepared to give the medication for the rest of the animals life. However, if after being on anticonvulsant medication for over a year no seizures have occurred, a cautious slow reduction in dose can be attempted.
The three most commonly used drugs in the treatment of epilepsy in cats and dogs are:
1. Diazepam
Known to many by its trade name Valium, diazepam is used in emergency short term situations to treat animals in status epilepticus, i.e. during a seizure. It is best administered intravenously so that it is delivered to the brain quickly, though finding a vein or placing a catheter in a fitting animal can be a challenge. In those situations, it is sometimes given rectally, where it is fairly rapidly absorbed across the rectal wall. If status epilepticus continues despite the repeated administration of diazepam, phenobarbitone can be given intravenously.
2. Phenobarbitone
Phenobarbitone is the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsant drug for both canine and feline epilepsy, owing to its efficacy and its low cost. Over three quarters of epileptic dogs have their seizures controlled by phenobarbitone alone. Sometimes it can take several weeks for the level of phenobarbitone in the blood stream to reach a high enough level to work properly, so many vets favor using a higher loading dose initially, reducing it for the maintenance phase. However, care must be taken as high doses of phenobarbitone can cause liver damage, and liver enzymes should be periodically checked in animals on long term therapy. Annual blood tests are also advised to check serum concentration levels of the drug, to calibrate the dose effectively. High doses can also cause sedation.
3. Potassium Bromide
A proportion of dogs are resistant to phenobarbitone. In such dogs, the addition of potassium bromide, i.e. a second drug, can be tried. The potassium bromide may also be tried alone as an alternative to phenobarbitone, but generally only after phenobarbitone has been thoroughly investigated at various doses and found to be inadequate. Phenobarbitone is also deemed unsuitable if the dog has liver dysfunction of any kind, in these cases potassium bromide (often referred to simply as bromide as that is the therapeutic part) can be used. Potassium bromide is not used in cats, only diazepam and phenobarbitone are recommended in this species.
What is a Seizure?
A seizure is the clinical manifestation of a cerebral disorder that can appear suddenly out of a background of normality, and then disappear with equal abruptness. The term fit is often used colloquially when referring to a seizure.
In humans, an epileptic seizure is a definable event that can be classified according to categories set by the International League Against Epilepsy. A formal classification system specifically for dogs and cats does not exist, but seizures can nevertheless be classified as either partial or generalized episodes.
Partial Seizures
These are seizures in which a localized onset may be determined. They usually have a congenital (present at birth) or an acquired (cancer, encephalitis) cause, and can sometimes evolve into a secondary generalized seizure.
Generalized Seizures
Generalized seizures are the most common type of seizures in dogs and cats. There are several variations of these seizures:
1. Absence seizures (petit mal): sudden brief loss of consciousness, rare in animals
2. Myoclonic seizures: muscle jerk of one or more muscles
3. Clonic seizures: rhythmic muscle contractions
4. Tonic seizures: increase in muscle tone in all skeletal muscles
5. Tonic Clonic seizures (grand mal): the most common form of seizure in pets
Tonic Clonic Seizures
Tonic Clonic (grand mal) seizures account for 60% of seizures in cats and 80% of seizures in dogs. They are usually accompanied by a loss of consciousness, and consist of a tonic phase, where the increased muscle tone causes the animal to fall on its side with its limbs extended, and a clonic phase, consisting of intense muscle jerking or paddling movements.
Causes of Seizures
In order to diagnose true epilepsy, other causes of seizures must be first ruled out. The questions a veterinarian must answer are:
Is the cause inside the brain or outside the brain?
If inside the brain, is the cause progressive (e.g. cancer, infection) or non progressive (epilepsy)?
If outside the brain, does the cause originate inside the body (e.g. low blood glucose, kidney failure, a liver problem) or outside the body (e.g. lead poisoning, organophosphate toxicity)?
Making a Diagnosis
If an animal has a solitary seizure, most veterinarians will advise against expensive and time consuming tests for something that may never happen again. If an animal has more than one seizure though, tests are indicated.
A veterinarian will start by taking a detailed case history, focusing on the description of the animals seizures, their frequency and duration, and the animals behavior between seizures. Ideally the seizure should be videotaped by the owner, and then shown to the veterinarian. It is important to differentiate a proper seizure from other causes of collapse such as an episode of syncope (where the heart misses several beats), narcolepsy or weakness due to another neurological problem (e.g. myasthenia gravis). Features of the description which indicate a seizure are:
1. Tonic (increased muscle tone) and clonic (jerky) muscle movements
2. Loss of consciousness (though not always)
3. Increased salivation
4. Spontaneous urination or defaecation
The veterinarian will then conduct a full clinical examination, followed by a more specific neurological examination. Blood will then be taken for full hematology and biochemistry profiles. A fasting blood glucose is useful to rule out hypoglycaemia, which is a frequent cause of seizures in dogs less than 6 months old and dogs with an insulinoma, an insulin secreting pancreatic tumor. If liver enzymes are raised, a further liver function test (bile acid stimulation) may be done. Blood lead levels should be measured in animals that may have had access to lead containing materials.
Xrays of the chest and abdomen are sometimes performed to check for any other significant disease, and fecal analysis is recommended in puppies with seizures as heavy parasite burdens have been implicated.
If all of the above tests are normal, and no disease outside the brain has been detected, many animals will be diagnosed with epilepsy as further tests are of the expensive variety. If further tests for intracranial (within the brain) disease are to be performed, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is the first step. CSF is tested for the presence of viral (e.g. Canine Distemper, Rabies), bacterial, fungal (e.g. Cryptococcus) and protozoal (e.g. Toxoplasmosis) infections. Electroencephalography (EEG) is useful for diagnosing malformations present since birth, such as hydrocephalus. Brain tumors are often only able to be diagnosed by advanced imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These must be done under general anesthesia as the animal must be completely motionless during the scan.
Treatment of Epilepsy
Once a tentative diagnosis of epilepsy has been made (by excluding all the other known causes of seizures), the animal can be prescribed anticonvulsant drugs. These drugs are not appropriate for animals with seizures caused by a problem outside the brain. The overall goal of anticonvulsant therapy is to eradicate all seizure activity, but this is rarely achieved. Most pets benefit from anticonvulsant drugs by reducing the frequency, severity and duration of their seizures. A more realistic goal is to reduce the frequency of the seizures to a level that is acceptable for the owner, without having negative side effects for the animal. A minority of animals require such high doses of anticonvulsant drugs to suppress their seizures that the adverse effects caused by it outweigh the benefits.
Since epilepsy is not curable, the owner must be prepared to give the medication for the rest of the animals life. However, if after being on anticonvulsant medication for over a year no seizures have occurred, a cautious slow reduction in dose can be attempted.
The three most commonly used drugs in the treatment of epilepsy in cats and dogs are:
1. Diazepam
Known to many by its trade name Valium, diazepam is used in emergency short term situations to treat animals in status epilepticus, i.e. during a seizure. It is best administered intravenously so that it is delivered to the brain quickly, though finding a vein or placing a catheter in a fitting animal can be a challenge. In those situations, it is sometimes given rectally, where it is fairly rapidly absorbed across the rectal wall. If status epilepticus continues despite the repeated administration of diazepam, phenobarbitone can be given intravenously.
2. Phenobarbitone
Phenobarbitone is the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsant drug for both canine and feline epilepsy, owing to its efficacy and its low cost. Over three quarters of epileptic dogs have their seizures controlled by phenobarbitone alone. Sometimes it can take several weeks for the level of phenobarbitone in the blood stream to reach a high enough level to work properly, so many vets favor using a higher loading dose initially, reducing it for the maintenance phase. However, care must be taken as high doses of phenobarbitone can cause liver damage, and liver enzymes should be periodically checked in animals on long term therapy. Annual blood tests are also advised to check serum concentration levels of the drug, to calibrate the dose effectively. High doses can also cause sedation.
3. Potassium Bromide
A proportion of dogs are resistant to phenobarbitone. In such dogs, the addition of potassium bromide, i.e. a second drug, can be tried. The potassium bromide may also be tried alone as an alternative to phenobarbitone, but generally only after phenobarbitone has been thoroughly investigated at various doses and found to be inadequate. Phenobarbitone is also deemed unsuitable if the dog has liver dysfunction of any kind, in these cases potassium bromide (often referred to simply as bromide as that is the therapeutic part) can be used. Potassium bromide is not used in cats, only diazepam and phenobarbitone are recommended in this species.
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