Emergencies

Since our beloved pets can’t tell us when something is wrong, we sometimes wonder and worry about what constitutes an emergency for our pets. Some emergencies are quite obvious and should be addressed immediately. Examples include: dog fights, being hit by car or bleeding lacerations. Less obvious signs of a potential emergency situation can stem from intestinal trouble, such as vomiting and diarrhea, ingestion of toxins, and difficulty breathing. When in doubt, the safest choice is to check in with your regular veterinarian, poison control or an emergency clinic.

We may become passive about occassional vomit or loose stool in our pets, when they have intermittent vomiting episodes, such as hairballs in cats. However, pets with vomiting and diarrhea should be very carefully monitored for the need to visit a veterinarian. It is true that animals tend to eat unusual things and often have occasional vomiting without significant illness. But pets can often feel well in spite of heading for serious dehydration. The overall demeanor of pets with gastrointestinal signs is very important to note. Puppies can be more susceptible to intestinal disease due to their limited energy stores when they cannot eat. Pets with decreased energy, reluctance to eat or inability to keep water down are significant emergencies and should be evaluated by a professional.

Dogs ingest toxins more often than cats, but in either case pets may have accessed unusual material without the owners’ knowledge. Signs of toxin ingestion can manifest in numerous ways such as hyperactivity, acute onset of severe vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, inability to keep down water, or drooling. These are signs of a true emergency. If your pet is expressing unusual behavior, then a call or a visit to the veterinarian is indicated. ASPCA poison control reports ingestion of human prescription medications as the top reason for calls to poison control. You can talk to an advisor or veterinarian at poison control about a substance or medication your pet ingested at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may be applied) or check the web site at http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control.

Emergencies that include breathing abnormalities should be treated promptly. Increased effort and bodily strain to breathe dictate an immediate trip to the vet or emergency clinic. Cats are prone to allergic bronchitis which can manifest as a cough or in acute panting and difficulty breathing. A dog who struggles to oxygenate well will want to stay upright and may widen the stance of their front legs attempting to increase the capacity of their chest to move air. Any time a pet is using the entire body or more of the abdominal muscles to breathe that might indicate fluid around the lungs and they should be seen by a veterinarian.

If you are in doubt about your pet, call your regular veterinarian or a local emergency clinic. Make sure you describe all the signs you see and carefully explain your concern. Part of being a pet owner is making sure we are good advocates for our pets. If your concern about your pet is greater than the concern expressed by staff at the veterinary hospital when you call, make sure they understand your concern and address your questions about whether your pet should be seen. If finances are a concern for you – be sure to express that to your veterinarian or the emergency staff, so they can prioritize the tests needed and you are able to work together for the best interest of your pet and a positive outcome. Communication and awareness are important parts of any veterinary visit. Remember, veterinarians also want the best for your pet and a positive healthy outcome whenever possible.

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

FIP - Feline Infectious Peritonitis

A friend left me a message this week telling me that her 7-month old kitten was ill and the family veterinarian suspected feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). With trepidation I called her back, as this is one of those unfortunate diseases that can affect young kittens, create a sense of helplessness for veterinarians, and great sorrow and loss for cat owners whose expectation for a lifetime of companionship is cut painfully short.

Identified in the 1980s by Dr. Neils Pederson at UC Davis, coronavirus is the root cause of FIP.  It is a common intestinal virus, which may manifest as mild diarrhea or even have no clinical signs when a cat is exposed. Most cats will clear the virus within weeks to months, but a small number of cats exposed to the virus can become carriers.  In a multi-cat household or breeding facility, a carrier of the virus can potentially infect the other cats through fecal and salivary contact. In the infected population, about 10% of cats develop the lethal form of FIP. While many cats exposed to the coronavirus do not become ill, those who mutate to FIP will show signs of illness such as weight loss, lethargy, fever and depression. Some kittens may have breathing changes if they develop fluid in their chest, while others will have abdominal distension from fluid in their abdomen.       

Prevention is challenging, as one cannot predict which cat in a group will mutate the coronavirus into FIP.  Maintaining good husbandry, decreasing population density and not breeding cats that have a high titer (concentration) of the coronavirus are some techniques recommended.  In a household where a cat has been diagnosed with coronavirus, some recommend not getting a new cat for a number of weeks to months and thorough cleaning of or destruction of the litter box and bedding of the affected pet. The virus can live for some time outside the body (up to six months), but is not resistant to good cleaning with detergents, bleach or disinfectants.

Diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis is made based on age, history and an increase of the proteins called globulins that show up in blood tests. Changes in the liver values can often occur and many cats have either breathing changes or intestinal signs such as vomiting, diarrhea or weight loss. Definite diagnosis of FIP can be difficult and may include an expensive or invasive biopsy. Due to the poor prognosis and potential to affect other cats in the household, some will take the steps to reach a definite diagnosis in their pets.  Most diagnoses are made in cats 3 to 12 months of age, which is part of the heartbreak of this disease.

Treatment at this time is limited to supportive care and use of steroids to minimize the inflammation caused by the mutated virus. A newer therapy for FIP called omega interferon was introduced with early clinical trials in the past few years, but the response has not been as positive as initially hoped.  For now, the hopes are we see fewer and fewer cases of this devastating disease by prevention and decreasing situations where the virus has opportunities to spread and mutate.

Much information is available on the internet about FIP and the research and discovery as well as potential treatments for this disease continues forward. Here are a few links with information about the disease: http://www.winnfelinefoundation.org/education/cat-health-news-blog/details/cat-health-news-from-the-winn-feline-foundation/2009/07/22/understanding-fip; http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/ccah/health_information/fip1.cfm;  http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=2&SourceID=19.

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

 

ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGY MANAGEMENT FOR DOGS & CATS

Allergic dermatitis is one of the main reasons a dog or cat visits the veterinarian. Most allergies can be categorized into one or more of the following types: parasite allergy, food allergy, or environmental allergies (also known as atopic dermatitis). Allergies can be further complicated by secondary bacterial or yeast infections on the skin or ear, resulting in crusts, greasiness, or ear problems.

A diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is based upon exclusion of the other allergies (parasite and food) and supportive history.  The gold standard of treatment for atopic dermatitis is allergen specific immunotherapy (i.e. allergy “shots” or oral allergy “drops”). The immunotherapy is based upon results of allergy testing, via either a blood test or an intradermal (skin) allergy test. This is the only therapy that specifically targets what the pet is allergic to with no long term side effects. As immunotherapy can take up to one year to effect, other treatments to manage symptoms may be used in the interim. Antihistamines and corticosteroids have been utilized for decades in order to manage allergies; however, antihistamines are only occasionally beneficial and corticosteroids are not ideal for long term use unless necessary. However, with the availability of Atopica®, Apoquel®, and now CADI (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Immunotherapeutic), veterinarians and veterinary dermatologists have other successful treatment options to manage allergy symptoms, with less chance of side effects than corticosteroids. CADI is the most novel therapy available that utilizes a specific dog antibody to target the itch mediator. The therapy is administered via a subcutaneous injection every four to six weeks by a veterinary dermatologist or approved veterinarian. However, it is still prudent to note that all symptomatic therapies have their limits and to discuss the pros and cons of each option with your veterinarian.

Environmental allergy management needs to be individualized for each patient’s specific needs. As not all dogs and cats are alike and respond the same to every therapy, one should discuss the various management options with their veterinarian to find the one that best suits the patient and the family.

Dr. Katherine Doerr is a practicing Veterinary Dermatologist at Dermatology for Animals in Aptos CA and other locations.

Blog Post Author: 

Katherine A. Doerr, DVM, Dip. ACVD

SCRATCHIN' THAT ITCH—OR NOT!

ITCH is one of the top ten reasons why clients bring their dogs to the vet. There are multiple causes for itch, stemming from multiple types of parasites, to allergies and also secondary infections. Here are some recommendations and potential steps in managing the itch in most dogs. Although cats can have skin sensitivity and allergies, most often we seen conditions described here in dogs.

Parasite hypersensitivity is the most common reasons dogs itch. Types of parasites include lice, chiggers, ticks, and most commonly, the flea. It is very important that all pets in the household are on consistent flea control, and many flea products contain agents to protect against other potential parasites. Fleas like to live in the carpeting, underneath couch cushions, under decks, and wood piles; anywhere that is dark and moist. Be sure to discuss with your veterinarian about a flea control product prior to applying to your pet, so that safety is ensured and you select the right product for your pet.

Environmental allergy is the next most common in pets. This allergy is manageable, but rarely curable and consists of allergies to pollens, molds and house dust mites. Occasionally, these allergies can respond to over-the-counter antihistamines; however, you must check with your veterinarian for the appropriate dose and formulation prior to administration, as some formulations are not good for dogs. Oral cold water marine fish oils can also be beneficial overall for the skin in therapeutic amounts. However, the only targeted therapy for environmental allergies is allergen-specific immunotherapy. This involves performing an intradermal skin test of the pet to determine what he/she may be allergic to. This is followed by formulating an injection or oral solution consisting of the pollen/mold extracts of what the pet is allergic to in the environment, and desensitizing the pet with those extracts. Side effects are minimal short term and absent long term.  Medications, other than antihistamines, may also be used for allergies but would be prescribed by a veterinarian.

Food allergy affects about 10% of the canine population. The only scientifically proven way to diagnose a food allergy is with a novel protein diet trial. This can be a homecooked diet, consisting of a single protein and carbohydrate that the pet has not be exposed to, or a prescription diet. The diet is fed for a minimum of 8 weeks, followed by a diet challenge. If the patient becomes itchy within 2 weeks of challenging the diet with the old food, then he/she is food allergic.

It is always important that secondary bacterial and/or yeast infections are evaluated for in any allergic or itchy pet. These infections come secondary to the change in the skin environment with the allergy "flare" and can be further exacerbated by the patient scratching his/her skin.

Allergies can be frustrating and confusing as many pets have a combination of allergies that all need to be managed. Appropriate diagnostics and therapy, as well as a strong veterinary-client-patient relationship is paramount to successful management of allergies in pets.

For additional information contact Katherine Doerr, DVM, DACVD; Dermatology for Animals. Aptos: 831-531-0090/Campbell: 408-871-3800

Blog Post Author: 

Guest Blog Post by Katherine Doerr, DVM; Dermatology for Animals

Thirsty again?

Pets drink different amounts of water based on the weather, exercise and specific habits. A change in diet (going from canned to dry food or visa versa) can also influence the amount a pet may drink. Sometimes your pet may drink more water as a sign of illness.  A significant change in water consumption warrants closer monitoring of your pet or a visit to the veterinarian. Medical issues such as endocrine disease, intestinal disease and blood loss can all cause an increase in water consumption.

Cats can have a significant increase in water consumption from endocrine disease such as diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, and high calcium. Dogs also get diabetes mellitus but can have an increased water consumption from other endocrine changes including elevated calcium, hyperadrenocorticism (a syndrome also known as Cushing’s disease) or Addison’s disease which is an inadequate supply of certain types of adrenal hormones. These diseases more often affect middle age to older pets, but can occur in younger pets as well.  A thorough history, physical examination and testing can help identify these disease processes. Most can be identified with blood tests and evaluation of urine and usually treament can be successful.

Intestinal disease can be another reason for excess water consumption. Animals that have diarrhea have more water loss, so have to compensate for that loss. Also if absorption of nutrients or change in protein levels exist these pets may drink more to compensate for those physiological changes. Animals that are losing weight and drinking more or that have chronic diarrhea, should be evaluated for intestinal disease that might respond to therapy.

Animals that are losing blood will drink more because the body has a sense of not having enough blood available and the body tries to replace that lost volume.  Physiologically the body feels dehydrated and is trying to have enough blood to provide oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. Blood loss can be from an acute injury, trauma or a low grade chronic loss through the intestines or bleeding disorders. In these cases pale gums, dark stool or other signs might exist to help determine the source of disease and correct it.

If you notice a change in your pet’s water consumption- be sure to mention it during the annual examination with your veterinarian. Routine blood and urine tests will often catch these disorders. Pets over 10 years of age might benefit from blood test screening every 6 months rather than annually.  Any abrupt increase in water consumption that is not explained by hot weather or change in diet or exercise should be investigated since it may be a sign of treatable disease that might respond to earlier intervention.

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

Weighing In On Your Pet

Just like humans, healthy weight control for our pets can mean a longer healthier life. Especially as our pets age, it’s better for them to carry a little less weight. However, we do not want to keep them so thin that they don’t have some muscle and fat reserves should they become ill. Make certain you discuss your pet’s body condition when you’re in for an annual examination. Your veterinarian can help set a weight goal and caloric intake that’s best for your pet. If there is a concern about your pet’s weight (too high or low) your veterinarian may want you to come in for a weekly or monthly weight check. The first step is measuring and identifying the right amount of calories for a pet and their metabolic rate and exercise habits. This varies from pet to pet so a discussion with your veterinarian  to determine their ideal ‘body condition score’ may be indicated.

Weight loss that is not intentional may be the result of a medical condition. Early intervention and screening increases the chance that a medical condition can be indentified and treated successfully. When pets are losing weight without explanation a physical examination and blood test can help explain the cause. When those tests do not identify the reason and a review of calorie intake indicates that pets are consuming adequate calories, then further investigation is indicated.  Tests such as chest films and abdominal ultrasound can be used to find reasons for weight loss. Your veterinarian will want to consider primary intestinal disease as reason for weight loss in pets whose other tests do not identify a cause.

Most common in older pets are metabolic diseases such as thyroid dysfunction. In dogs, low thyroid—hypothyroid—is more common and causes weight gain. In cats thyroid dysfunction is usually overactive—hyperthyroid—and causes weight loss.  Liver and kidney disease can also cause changes in weight. If an animal has disease that causes fluid retention then weight gain can be seen. Heart and lung disease may influence weight loss because these pets are not feeling well or working hard to breathe and aren’t as interested in their food.  A thorough physical examination of your pet can help identify heart murmurs or lung changes as well as abnormalities that might be palpated in the abdomen. A metabolic screen with a blood test looking at kidney, liver and thyroid function is important when looking for a reason that a pet’s weight may be fluctuating.

When a pet has a normal physical examination and blood tests and the veterinarian and owner have determined that the calorie intake is adequate to maintain weight, then other forces are at work. Those pets might have primary intestinal disease including inflammation, bacterial imbalance in their intestines or poor absorption of nutrition from pancreatic or intestinal disease. Imaging of the intestines using radiographs (xrays) and ultrasound might be indicated in these pets. When there is evidence of intestinal disease such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, then some pets can undergo an endoscopy using digital camera imaging to visualize the inside of the intestines and obtain biopsies. Sometimes additional blood tests evaluating pancreatic enzyme function and B vitamin levels can identify treatable intestinal diseases such as bacterial imbalance in the intestines or inadequate digestive enzymes.

Cancer can be another reason for unexplained weight loss in pets. If you have an older pet that is losing weight without other obvious signs of disease, then xrays of the chest and an ultrasound of the abdomen is the next step in screening.  Ideally this evaluation should be done by a boarded radiologist who is skilled at identifying subtle abnormalities in the intestines and internal organs. The goal of early identification of a cancer process is that treatments including surgical removal, chemotherapy or radiation might be life sparing and in some cases might put that cancer into remission for a long period of time if not cure it. Cancer is no longer always a death sentence in pets and many can live a good quality of life after diagnosis. If your pet is diagnosed with cancer consulting with a board certified oncologist gives you the best opportunity to find out options and success rate of different treatments. The choice to treat cancer is individual and some owners might not chose to treat cancer in their pets. However, being able to make aninformed choice about options lies in knowing the options available and making the best choice for you and your pet.

Any pet over 10 years of age should have a blood test annually and a thorough physical examination with a veterinarian. Educating yourself with the reasons for any changes in your pet’s weight can help give BOTH of you more time together.

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

Tricky Treats!

Halloween has progressed from a child focused holiday of masked adventure to a full out incognito party for all ages.  Although many of our pets enjoy the extra attention from adoring fans a costume might bring, there are many parts of Halloween that can put your pets at risk.  Monitoring your pet’s reaction to environmental changes is essential to keeping them safe.

Animals that are afraid of people in hats will be particularly frightened by the myriad costumes parading around. If your pet is afraid of flapping material, costumes or loud sounds then it’s best and safest to keep them away from the celebrations. Dogs who feel the doorbell is a call to duty and want to greet or investigate every arrival may be over-stimulated by the number of visitors and frightened by the appearance and behavior of some of the guests reaching in, dressed oddly, and carrying noisy bags or lights.  Animals that are naturally shy or cautious should be given a favorite chew toy and kept away from this excess stimulus. Dogs that are prone to want to protect the family will be particularly stressed by what they see as a threat to you at every ring of the doorbell—so again, keep them in a quiet part of the house.

Candy can be a risk to pets for three reasons: chocolate is toxic, low calorie sweetener is toxic and the wrappers or sticks from lollipops can mechanically traumatize the intestines or cause blockage.  Chocolate contains a substance called Theobromine which is like caffeine and will create vomiting, diarrhea, fast heart rate and if the dose is high enough – death. Darker chocolate and higher doses pose more danger to your pet. If in doubt call an emergency clinic to discuss any dose or exposure.  Xylitol is a non-calorie sweetener that causes a life threatening release of insulin and therefore very low blood sugar in dogs and can be toxic to the liver as well in both dogs and cats. If your pet has been exposed to this substance a visit to the emergency clinic is indicated.  The wrappers, sticks and paraphernalia around Halloween candy can cause obstruction or trauma to the esophagus, stomach or intestines. So keep your pets away from all tricky treats.

Cats can be a little more sensitive to the chaos around the home on Halloween. So if you have a cat that will not be stressed by restriction to a safe part of the house keeping them indoors is best. Unfortunately the world still contains people who might chose to traumatize pets on prank-ridden nights like Halloween. Pets—especially black cats — should be safe and cozy indoors for the night before you go to bed to make sure the entire family has a safe holiday.

Costumes for pets are fun and entertaining but make sure that your pet is not becoming stressed from either wearing a costume or being paraded in front of many people.  Frightened or frustrated animals can become aggressive if they have no other outlet for their emotions.

Halloween is a fun holiday and seeing the creative approach to costumes for both people and pets can be entertaining. Make sure the fun part stays that way for your pet by keeping them safe from stress and harm.

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

BRRRRRR!!!!

We are so spoiled on the Central Coast with the usual balmy weather that this last blast of arctic air has been a bit of a surprise.  We know where the coats and gloves are kept and can use those opposable thumbs to turn up the thermostat, not so for the pets in our lives. Although the frigid weather may fade, experience now tells us that during these winter months it can come back at any time.

            Dogs that love to be outside and particularly those that are kept outside during the day may need a little more shelter or clothing when the temps drop.  If your dog is an “in the yard” during the day pet then having a shelter like an igloo or dog house will be valuable for them. Heating pads and blankets are NOT safe because dogs may chew the wires resulting in electrical burns in the mouth or worse electrocution.  Also our pet’s skin is a little more sensitive to heat that ours and thermal burns even from a low setting on a heating pad can cause skin damage.  If your pet prefers or needs to stay outside provide a blanket or bed that can be used for nesting and ideally shelter of some sort to allow that pet to trap air under a roof. When the nighttime temperatures drop below freezing, it’s best to bring your furry friends inside.

            Although we seldom get snow on the central coast, these morning of 28 degree weather can be tough on the pads of our pets that are walking or tend to do a lot of running. Be sure to check your dog’s pads for irritation, redness or discomfort particularly if you are a morning runner with your pet. You can get booties for your pet that helps protect their feet. Whether hot or cold weather—or just an increase in the amount of walking for your dog—their feet need conditioning just like ours for change in surfaces and increased friction.  You can also use a coat or sweater to help your dog stay warm when they’re outside. Especially, if you have a short haired dog or one that spends most of their time indoors and is therefore not conditioned to temperature extremes.  Be sure to remove the coat when they arrive back to the cozy house to prevent overheating.

            Cats tend to be more selective in their location during the cold winter. If you have an indoor only cat then most likely they have located the warm spot on your bed, or near the heater registers or fireplace.  If you have roaming cats that enjoy outside try to be sure they are back inside by nightfall. This not only protects them from wild animals but the temperature drops significantly with the sun these days.

Another important part of winter safety for our pets is making sure that they are not exposed to anti-freeze. Traditional anti-freeze has ethylene glycol as an ingredient.  Ethylene glycol has a sweet taste and if left on the ground can be attractive to pets and they will drink it.  It takes less than a teaspoon of antifreeze per 3 pounds of body weight to create toxicity.  Here are some sites to read more about ethylene glycol toxicity:http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/urinary/c_dg_antifreeze_poisoning#.UqYB5yfOS8A

http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/toxicology/ethylene_glycol_toxicity/overview_of_ethylene_glycol_toxicity.html

Ethylene glycol causes severe damage to the kidneys within about 24 to 48 hours of ingestion and can be fatal.  Most anti-freeze has a greenish color and can be identified on the ground so keep your pets out of the garage when you are working on your car and away from puddles in parking lots that might contain this substance.

            Careful attention to our pets will help everyone enjoy the winter weather and have a happy holiday season!

Blog Post Author: 

Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

A New Year's Message from BirchBark's Founder

            When I was a child I had a theory that the odd numbered years were never as good as the even numbered years. So many memorable events for me seemed to fit into the even years.  The amazing success and launch of BirchBark Foundation—a 10-year dream— has completely disproved that theory.

            The slower pace of life during the holiday season has allowed some reflection on these ten months since our February, 2013 launch. I realize our central coast community has come together—individuals, businesses, veterinarians, pet stores, artists, wineries—to donate, contribute, support, guide and publicize BirchBark foundation. Such generous contributions created a successful launch and first year. To ALL of you, we say THANK YOU!

Over the years of my practice, I’ve watched families struggle with the decision of whether to risk their financial stability to save their pet. Then, one day in 2011 a long-time client helped give shape and financial support to the dream and I was able to move forward with the idea.

 I want to thank all the wonderful people who met with us during the year of development in 2012 year and encouraged us emotionally, financially and with ideas to move forward and create a community where medical advocacy and education is the focus. Special thanks goes to all of our early supporters and providers and especially to all of our Associate Member veterinary hospitals for your participation in our BirchBark community.

April 15, 2013 brought the dream further to fruition as we began accepting grant applications from pet owners. Working closely with our Associate Member hospitals— from our very first case, Chloe to our most recently funded case, Jasper—we have so far saved sixteen pets and supported families with grants and education thereby supporting our mission.  The web site and our social media has been a wonderful source of information and education and I’m especially pleased when people let me know they learned something new about keeping their pets safe or monitoring their health. I also enjoy being able to post photos of pets I have known and cared for over the years. We look forward to getting updated stories and pictures of them as well as BirchBark grant recipients.

I am incredibly thankful that others see the value of this dream and support us in so many ways. As we look forward to 2014, I’m excited about all of our BirchBark plans. I’m grateful to each and every one of you, and wish you a Happy New Year and a healthy 2014 for you and your pets.

Blog Post Author: 
Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM

Shake, Rattle and Roll—Identifying Seizures and their Source

Watching your beloved pet appear helpless while foaming at the mouth or have twitching limbs and convulsive tremors can be terribly frightening.  Most people understandably panic when this happens and fear the worst—that they may be losing their pet. Although possibly serious, seizures are relatively common with pets—more often dogs.

Most seizures can be controlled once the source of the problem is identified. A seizure is a physical manifestation of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A seizure can occur when the nerve to muscle communication overloads. When the brain has an electrical charge that persists across a membrane seizures occur. Dogs do get epilepsy and this is the most common reason for seizures. However, metabolic, toxic and physical brain abnormalities (congenital or acquired) can also exist and cause seizures. Differentiating between all of those causes guides the treatment for seizures in pets.

Metabolic reasons for seizures include abnormal calcium, glucose or sodium levels. Some young pets might not have enough stored glucose called glycogen and significant exertion without a meal could bring their blood sugar too low. Severe infection can also bring down a blood sugar.  Dogs with low blood sugar might need to be fed more often. Calcium is very carefully monitored and regulated by the parathyroid gland. The parathyroid helps the kidneys, intestines and bones supply short-term and long-term calcium levels to the body.  Too little or too much of the parathyroid gland function causes changes in calcium and in some cases seizures when the muscles react to that excess or deficiency. Sodium helps maintain the pet’s internal water levels and imbalances of too much or too little may also cause seizures.

Toxins are another cause of seizures.  The most common is snail bait containing the substance metaldehyde. This substance is a “tremerogen” which causes muscles to twitch.  Dogs who eat this substance might start with fine tremors but if they have ingested enough the twitch will progress to full blown seizures and if left untreated these dogs can have their body temperature climb to greater than 107 which then can cause permanent damage in the brain and possible death.  Make sure pets are not exposed to metaldehyde contained in snail bait around your house. There are safer brands that contain zinc or iron phosphate.  Prescription medications, chocolate, coffee and many other household products can predispose pets to seizures. If your pet has behavior changes and may have been exposed to an unusual substance play it safe and call either poison control or your veterinarian for advice. A retrospective look at toxic and metabolic causes for seizures was published in 2011 and found many different extra-cranial (outside the brain) reasons for seizures in dogs: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19939714

Anatomical abnormalities in the brain can include:

• Congenital (birth defects) where the brain is malformed or parts of the brain do not develop completely
• Brain tumors
• Brain injuries including trauma, stroke, hemorrhage or inflammation

In anatomical seizure cases the breed, age and previous history of the dog is essential information in figuring out the source of the seizures. Also dogs can develop anatomical brain changes or inflammation due to infectious diseases such as distemper, rabies or meningitis: bacterial or inflammatory.  Often imaging the brain with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will help differentiate these causes. Cerebral spinal fluid can also be analyzed in these pets.  Treatment varies from medication, antibiotics and supportive care, to (in cases of tumors) surgery and or radiation. It’s up to the owner to decide what is a viable option for them and their pet.

Epilepsy is often the diagnosis when other reasons for seizures are not identified. Obtaining a good history, evaluating the environment and breed of a pet as well as doing a blood panel, a thorough physical examination including neurologic exam are all necessary before settling on a diagnosis of idiopathic (spontaneous) epilepsy. Age of the pet also plays a role. Most epileptic pets have their first seizure between the age of 6 months and 5 years. Once again dogs can break the mold and have their first seizure at a later date and often an MRI is recommended to be sure there is not an anatomical insult in that older pet’s brain. Breeds in which the condition can be inherited include Beagles, Dachshunds, Keeshonden German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Tervurens, and others. Breeds with a high incidence, but in which inheritance has not yet been established, include Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters, Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, St. Bernards, Siberian Huskies, and Wire Fox Terriers. Even mixed breeds can be afflicted with epilepsy. You can read more at http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/dog-epilepsy.

Phenobarbital has historically been used for treatment of seizures. It is effective but does have a potential to be damaging to the liver if not carefully monitored. Potassium bromide is another medication being used for control of seizures in dogs. However, it causes an irreversible inflammatory bronchitis in cats so should not be used in that species.  In recent years newer medications with fewer side effects have become affordable as generics. These medications: zonisamide, longer acting Valium analogs and levetiracetam (keppra) are emerging as safer and effective medications for managing seizures in pets.

Veterinary neurologists are one of the many specialty disciplines in our field and exclusive studying of the brain and spinal cord diseases allow them to help guide diagnostics and therapy in affected patients.  Many internal medicine specialists also manage challenging seizure cases when the family veterinarian has exhausted their options for good control of the disease.

Blog Post Author: 
Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM