Understanding epilepsy in pets: A personal journey with ‘Blue’

‘Blue’, the 12-year-old Kelpie/Collie.

ESTIMATED to affect less than one percent of dogs, Camden Haven animal lover Emily Verey says epilepsy can be a “real rollercoaster for pet owners”.

Her pup, ‘Blue’, a 12-year-old Kelpie/Collie, began having seizures three years ago, the first when out for a run at the Henry Kendall dog park.

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“It was a terrifying and confronting experience, as seeing your beloved pet in distress is never easy,” Emily said.

“Initially, his seizures were infrequent and had no clear pattern, making it tough to predict when they might occur.

“Because of this irregularity, medication wasn’t immediately considered as a treatment option.”

As time went on however, Blue’s seizures became more frequent.

“This escalation made us realise we needed to improve his quality of life,” Emily said.

“Finding the right medication and dosage was a journey filled with trial and error, along with numerous tests to pinpoint the root cause of his seizures and ensure the treatment was both effective and safe for Blue.

“We discovered that, despite being in his golden years, Blue’s body was in great shape, so his seizures were triggered in the brain, not by environmental factors.”

After many months of adjustments and close monitoring, Blue finally found stability.

“The relief we felt was immense, knowing he could now enjoy a better quality of life without the constant threat of seizures.”

The experience has reinforced for Emily the importance of “compassionate” veterinary care.

“This ongoing journey wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated team at Camvet,” she said.

“Epilepsy in pets requires patience, understanding, and a strong partnership with your veterinarian.”

Emily is also highlighting the need for pet owners to remain vigilant, seeking advice if they notice any unusual behaviour in their pets.

“Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving the pet’s quality of life.”

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