Find out how an integrative approach combining alternative therapies and conventional medications can help control idiopathic epilepsy in dogs.
Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in dogs. It can be inherited (genetic or idiopathic), caused by structural problems in the brain, or stem from an unknown cause. This article focuses on idiopathic epilepsy in dogs. This condition has no identifiable structural cause but is assumed to have a genetic origin. We’ll look at what triggers seizures, and how they can be treated using an integrative approach.
Understanding idiopathic epilepsy in dogs
Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common reason for recurrent seizures in dogs between one and five years of age. Dogs suffering from seizures require an MRI. This helps veterinarians search for a cause and establish a diagnosis.
Idiopathic epilepsy shows no obvious evidence of brain injury. The probable cause may relate to a hereditary chemical or functional defect in the brain.
What triggers idiopathic epilepsy in dogs?
Heredity appears to play a significant role in idiopathic epilepsy. However, veterinary specialists believe several outside factors can trigger seizures:
- Environmental stress – loud noises, synthetically scented candles, chemicals in household cleaners, bright lights, overstimulation, and uncertainty about the environment can all contribute to seizures in dogs with epilepsy.
- Poor diet – Low end processed pet foods can be linked to seizures, mainly because dogs can react to the ingredients, causing inflammation and exacerbating seizures.Helpful hint: Work with a holistic vet or animal nutritionist to find out if your dog has any food allergies and intolerances – this can be a game-changer.Fresh, pure, simple, non-processed foods, perhaps excluding dairy, grains or “triggering’” starches and meats, are the best option. It’s crucial to avoid foods with artificial preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.
- Leaving your dog alone – Dogs are pack animals and social beings. They want to be with us and share their space and hearts with unconditional love. Leaving an epileptic dog alone for too long can cause stress that may lead to a seizure.
- Changing up their routine – Because dogs thrive on routine, any changes to the structure they have grown accustomed to can set off anxiety and cause a seizure.
Keep your epileptic dog on a strict schedule. Mealtimes, walks, and medication should occur at the same times daily. Altering his routine too often can cause stress and may lead to a seizure.
Helpful hint: Dogs pick up on our emotions. If you’re anxious and nervous, your dog will sense it. Remain calm around him, even when a seizure occurs. Soothing techniques such as gentle music and soft voices can help keep prevent seizures.
Treatment options for idiopathic epilepsy in dogs
Conventional medications
Several hardcore pharmaceuticals have been guaranteed to control seizures. They include Zonisomide, Keppra, Potassium Bromide, and Phenobarbital. The latter is the most studied and most often prescribed by mainstream veterinarians.
These medications may cause side effects, such as drowsiness and lethargy, which can affect the dog’s quality of life. This is especially the case with phenobarbital, a barbiturate. Dogs on this medication may act as though they’re on a depressant, resulting in mental dullness.
“Sedation is more likely when epileptic dogs are taking conventional medications versus holistic therapies,” says veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier. “Additionally, increased appetite, weight gain, and possibly organ issues (e.g. liver, pancreas) can occur depending on the medication.”
Helpful hint: Dogs with epilepsy can have “breakthrough” seizures even while on high doses of anti-seizure medications.
Alternative therapies
May dog parents are turning to more holistic methods for controlling idiopathic epilepsy and seizures in their canine companions. We have seen positive success rates using alternative therapies in newly diagnosed dogs.
“If the dog experiences numerous seizures, medications and supplements are needed. The goal is to eventually reduce or eliminate the medication” says Dr. Messonnier.
“For dogs with mild seizures, I usually use herbs and supplements, with equal if not better results than with medications. Typically, most dogs can be effectively treated without chronic drug therapy and maintained on natural solutions.
“Every case is different,” Dr. Messonnier continues. “Depending on the starting dose of phenobarbital, it’s best to take things slowly. It usually takes three to six months to wean a
young epileptic dog off phenobarbital and onto alternative therapies.”
Idiopathic epilepsy in dogs can be tough to deal with but an integrative approach that uses both conventional and alternative therapies can be very powerful and give your dog a good quality of life.
Herbs and supplements for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy
When using alternative therapies for idiopathic epilepsy, we aim to support the dog’s immune health, enhance brain function, and promote a strong nervous system. Important: Work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian before giving your dog any herbs or supplements. He or she can help determine which ones your dog would most benefit from, along with the proper dosages.
1. High quality fish oil
Whether you prefer salmon or cod liver oil, the key is to research the very best fish oil for your dog, one that doesn’t smell or taste too fishy, and that they can tolerate and find tasty. Pure fish oil products will have a quality assurance label on the bottle. Consult with your veterinarian regarding how much to administer to your dog. Mixing the oil with your dog’s food is a great way to ensure he receives every ounce of the supplement.
2. MCT and CBD oils
Supplements showing promising results include medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and CBD oil. Both are well tolerated by dogs and have minimal side effects.
- MCT oil is a purified form of coconut oil. It contains concentrated amounts of key fatty acids that are effective for seizure control. MCT oil can be taken with phenobarbital to minimize breakthrough seizures.These oils form ketones that act as the brain’s preferred fuel source and calm the nervous system. One downside of MCT oil is the possibility of diarrhea if you give your dog too much, too fast.Be sure to opt for a high-grade MCT oil with C-8 and C-10 chain-length fatty acids, as the longer acids may cause discomfort in your dog.
- CBD or cannabinoid oil is extracted from the hemp plant. As the popularity of CBD oils rises, so too does its usage for seizure control.Talk with your veterinarian before embarking on a CBD program for your dog’s seizures, since you want to ensure you’re giving him the proper dosage.
3. Western herbs and supplements
Milk thistle, valerian root, oat straw, melatonin, ashwagandha, chamomile, L-tryptophan, and turmeric all have the capacity to help prevent seizures and offer calming influences to epileptic dogs. They are typically available as powders or capsules, as single ingredients or in combination.
4. Chinese herbal medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, seizures are termed “internal wind” and stem from an imbalance in the liver. The thinking is that seizures occur due to wind, heat, and stagnation in the liver.
Several Chinese herbal formulas work well to move stagnation, drain heat, and extinguish wind, and when combined with acupuncture and Tui na (Chinese massage), they can control a dog’s seizures. Work with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable and experienced in using Chinese herbal medicine.
