Seizures are a distressing event for any pet and their owner. Even if your animal has a diagnosed, pre-existing condition, the sudden onset of a seizure is alarming. We can feel helpless when they strike, which is why preventative measures are vital when protecting our animals. Whether your dog suffers with epilepsy or another seizure-inducing condition, it help to know your options when it comes to treatments. While some owners will stick with the drugs prescribed by their veterinarians, others are keen to explore a more natural avenue. It all comes down to personal pros and cons and the response of the dog.
Medical prescriptions are the most common, recognizable choice for dog owners
Drug treatments are the go-to response if there is a clear medical reason for your dogs seizures. Regular treatments and prescriptions can help to minimize the risk of seizures and symptoms. Yet, there are some downsides to this approach. There are some dogs that exhibit side effects when treated with phenobarbital – one of the more common drugs in use for dog epilepsy. These side effects include an increase in appetite, with additional weight gain, as well as increased thirst and urination. Others deal with anxiety or lethargy. It can all depend on the patient.
This is why many dog owners now seek out alternative solutions for their dog’s seizures
The good news is that there are natural and holistic treatments that dog owners can try to help manage epilepsy. The ongoing problem of epilepsy and seizures means the need for a treatment option that owners can rely on. Those that want to avoid the risks of prescription drugs can turn to natural methods instead. There are some that focus on dietary changes as a home remedy, such as an increase in essential fatty acids. Others turn to tinctures of substances like Aconite and Belladonna during the seizure itself. Acupuncture is another area of alternative pet health care with some potential with the control of epilepsy.
CBD and hemp treatments for dog epilepsy and seizures
Then there is the controversy around CBD oil and hemp. Many dog owners won’t go near this option because of the links to cannabis. However, these oils are completely legal, safe and free from damaging psychoactive THC substances. This means a helpful oil that can relax pets and provide relief against epilepsy. There are children using medicinal marijuana for epilepsy with great success, so this is a logical approach. Much of the benefit comes from the concentration of those essential fatty acids mentioned above. Dog owners can add drops of this oil to dog food and provide potential relief.
Choose the method you are most comfortable with
It is all about finding a solution that works for you and your pet, whether that means a home remedy or prescription. The best solution in the fight against epilepsy is the one with the best results. Owners have to decide if that means a homeopathic option like belladonna, a pharmaceutical one like phenobarbital, a cannabinoid like CBD oil or something else. Research your options and see which gets the best reaction from your pet.
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