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4 yr old aussie. Developed significant Grand Mal Seizures ...

Sent to Pet Experts April 19, 2006 12:38 p.m.

4 yr old aussie. Developed significant Grand Mal Seizures four days ago.
Day 1 - 1 seixure
Day 2 - 1 seizure
Day 3 - multiple seizures and valum does not control the seizure

Assuming that the seizures did not go un-noticed before the recent episodes. What could bring on the seizures this strong this fast.

Optional Information:
Age: 4; Male; Breed: Australian Sheppard

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Emergency vet Regular vet

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $20

Answer
April 19, 2006 12:50 p.m. (11 minutes and 44 seconds later)

REPLIED

Triggers for seizures vary dog to dog. This could be a metabolic issue such as thyroid disease, it might be a sign of liver or kidney disease too. Idiopathic seizures sometimes don't show up until the dog is right around this age.
Use of heartworm or flea medications or other drugs can cause seizures in susceptible dogs.
This site really goes over seizures and causes well and you may find it really useful
http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/site_map.htm
You may find phenobarbitol will help reduce or resolve the seizure activity.
If you know his breeder you should talk to them about this and see if others in the litter or either of the parents have the same problem.
Hope this helps you!

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Reply to Nancy Holmes
Sent April 19, 2006 1:01 p.m. (10 minutes and 52 seconds later)

the vets have done a variety of tests on the blood and other things and have eliminated all organ issues and tick issues. They are focusing on the brain now. A valum supository injection could not subside the seizure. (I am assuming that this is not a good sign?) What would have brought on the seixures so quickly and suddenly. I feel like we have been from 0 mph to 60 mph in three days. Whold this condition not manifest itself gradually?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Answer
April 19, 2006 1:06 p.m. (4 minutes and 55 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

Unfortunately epilepsy comes on all of a sudden.
I know my dog went from perfectly fine to grand mal seizures with extreme convulsions (intimidating in a 135 pound dog). With her the trigger (we kept a diary documenting seizure activity and surrounding influences) turned out to be partly her hormonal changes and spaying her helped her a lot.
Different things can trigger different dogs.
No its not a particularly good sign that valium didn't help.
If they didn't check for thyroid issues thats a possibility.
But its a hereditary problem in the breed - the time bomb may be in his genes
http://www.ashgi.org/articles/epilepsy_road_hell.htm

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Please press Accept if you find my answer helpful. Want more info? Just reply on your question!
Bonuses for good work are always appreciated!
Thanks for the opportunity to help you!

NancyH -- Pet Health Care, Rescue,Train,Breed -- 99% Positive Feedback on 6958 Pet Accepts
30+yrs pet vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior & training, responsible breeding, small animal care

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