Complete Information Regarding the Pomeranian Toy Dog

              

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Pomeranian Seizures
Overview

Some people do not know that dogs have seizures just as some humans do.  It is important to recognize the signs. There are  different types of canine seizures.  With any type, in some cases it will only occur once and with other dogs, it may be an ongoing issue.  Sadly, despite a gambit of testing,  even the most experienced veterinarians do not always find a cause.

However, dogs who are diagnosed with epilepsy can do quite well and live relatively normal and happy lives with proper medication.  Other possible reasons for a dog having one or multiple seizures is a head injury, the end stage of a severe heart worm infestation and genetics.

Types of Dog Seizures


The most common type of dog seizure is the Tonic-clonic.  This has 2 phases.  The "tonic" phase can be severe or mild.  In severe cases, the dog will enter a Grand Mal phase in which they fall to the ground unconsciousness, limbs stretched rigid.  This is very  serious, as  a dog may  stop breathing.  If breathing does not resume within 30 seconds, CPR must be performed while help is being summoned.

In milder "tonic"' phases, the dog may fall down, but will not be unconscious and will breathe normally.

The "clonic" and 2nd phase will be one in which the dog show very particular signs.  This can include all or some of the following: running in place, excessive drooling, odd movements of the jaw, unresponsiveness, very enlarged pupils.

More rare are other types of dog seizures.  There is the condition of a Petit Mal; this is a very brief canine seizure in which the dog will lose muscle control and their brain will enter a "blank" stage of staring.

Partial seizures may occur with dogs.  They may show signs similar to the 2nd phase of the tonic-clonic type.  This will include the walking in place and the dog may also exhibit muscle spasms in any part of the body: limbs, head or back.   During this type, a dog may repeat motions, such as biting into thin air or barking as if they were video taped and the film is looping over and over.

The most serious and also rare Status Epilepticus seizure is usually fatal.  A dog will enter a strong seizure that lasts for more than a 1/2 hour.  Some dogs will never recover.   Sadly, though rare, this type can be avoided as it occurs when a dog is given large amounts of chocolate.  This can also happen if a dog accidentally ingests a toxin such as a cleaning chemical.   Therefore, "child" proofing a home for a Pomeranian is always strongly recommended.

What to Do

What do should you do if you think your Pomeranian is having a seizure?  Although it seems to go against human instinct: stay calm.  Do not believe that you need to hold your Pomeranian's tongue; this is not true.  Move away any objects that may injure the dog such as furniture. Immediately shut off any noises such as the TV, music, etc. Shut off any bright lights.  Speak in a comforting voice.  Gently put a thin pillow under your Pom's head.  Try to keep a clear head as your dog's veterinarian will want to know when this occurred, how long it lasted for, all signs that your dog displayed and what your Pomeranian was doing just prior to the seizure.   Once your dog appears to be exiting the seizure, bring him or her to the vet or nearest animal hospital.


More Information

Seizures are a scary health issue!  However dogs can have many different health issues.  Knowing the first signs of symptoms and understanding what to do can mean everything !  When you own a Pomeranian, you must know:
  • Health
  • Behavior
  • Training
  • Appearance Issues
  • And so much more
For these reasons, we have created a very easy-to-download, 325 page PetPom book for you.  Find out more