Special Considerations When Boarding An Epileptic Dog

For someone unfamiliar with dog epilepsy, the sudden onset of a seizure can be quite frightening. Thus, if you need to board an epileptic dog, you should ensure that the staff is aware of the dog's condition and any special needs it might have. 

What is an Epileptic Seizure?

When a dog has "epilepsy," it is susceptible to seizures. Seizures are identified by involuntary shaking, a clenched jaw, tense muscles, drooling, uncontrolled urination, and in some cases, unconsciousness. After a seizure occurs, the dog is often disoriented, dazed, very thirsty, and even temporarily blind. 

In some breeds, like Chihuahuas, Labrador retrievers, and Shetland sheepdogs, epilepsy is frequently inherited. All dogs can develop epilepsy as a result of severe head trauma, illness, or brain lesions.

Managing Epilepsy

Epilepsy is not in and of itself a fatal condition, but the dog can be severely injured if a seizure occurs in less-than-optimal circumstances. As an epileptic dog ages, its seizures also tend to increase in frequency and severity.

A veterinarian can place an epileptic dog on medications that can prevent or lighten seizures. Usually, the veterinarian will also monitor the dog's blood throughout its life because the dosage can change over time. 

Boarding a Dog With Epilepsy

Sometimes, owners are afraid to reveal a dog's epilepsy to a boarding facility out of fear that the facility will refuse to take the dog. Even though some boarding facilities have this policy, many others are willing to watch an epileptic dog. For the safety of the staff, the dog, and other animals, it is imperative that you alert the staff to the dog's condition. If the dog has a seizure during its stay, the boarding facility staff can isolate it from other dogs that might bother or injure it. With knowledge of the dog's epileptic condition, the boarding staff is also be better prepared to help it.

If the dog is on medication, you should leave extra doses in case the dog must stay boarded longer than expected. Because these medications often have side effects, you should particularly alert the staff to any unusual behavior changes associated with the dosage. Epileptic dogs can have sudden, severe seizures if their medication is decreased or stopped altogether, so you should give the boarding facility staff clear, written instructions. Even though most boarding facilities have access to a veterinarian, you should provide the kennel staff with the phone number to the vet who is familiar with the dog's condition, medications, and progress.

If you're looking for a dog kennel, contact Springfield Kennels.