With epilepsyCan there be a natural alternative to apoquel for dogs with epilepsy?

Dog seizures and epilepsy can be frightening and frustrating illnesses for pet owners. You are not alone if your dog has seizures.: Seizures in dogs are a common problem that affects at least 1% of all dogs. However, knowing that canine seizures are common does not make the situation any less stressful for you and your dog. The good news is that there are numerous safe, natural, holistic treatment options available to help dogs avoid or reduce seizures. But first, what are seizures and why do they occur in dogs?

A seizure is a neurological condition that is also known as a convulsion or a fit. Seizures are an uncontrollable physical reaction to excessive electrical activity in the brain. Canine epilepsy occurs when a dog has chronic or recurring seizures. One issue with treating epilepsy in dogs is that veterinarians frequently struggle to determine the cause.

What Causes Seizures in Dogs?

"The causes of seizures are frequently unknown.". Canine epilepsy affects the majority of dogs. Many events, however, can lower a dog's seizure threshold," says Dr. Boulder Holistic Veterinarian Angie Krause. "Events such as visitors, travel, storms, and loud noises can cause stress in some dogs.". This, in turn, can result in seizures.”

There are three basic types of triggers that can cause seizures.: Extracranial (problems that occur outside of the brain), intracranial (problems that occur within the brain), and idiopathic (problems that occur for unknown reasons). Seizures can be caused by low blood sugar, allergic reactions, environmental toxins, certain medications, head trauma, meningitis, brain tumors, and liver disease.

If your dog has a seizure and your veterinarian suspects epilepsy, they will conduct a thorough examination, including a blood panel, to rule out any potential causes. If nothing is discovered after a thorough examination, your dog will most likely be diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy.

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When a dog is diagnosed with epilepsy, traditional veterinarians will frequently prescribe anticonvulsant medications such as phenobarbital and potassium bromide to treat the symptoms. Unfortunately, there have been numerous reports of phenobarbital side effects in dogs. Unpleasant side effects include anxiety, agitation, nervousness, pacing, and whining, as well as physical side effects such as lethargy, incontinence, and vomiting.

A holistic veterinarian's role is to provide treatment options for dog seizures that can either supplement (or, in some cases, replace) traditional treatment. Holistic veterinarians will look for natural alternatives to treating epilepsy in your dog that have fewer side effects and can collaborate with your regular veterinarian. The following is an overview of holistic approaches to treating your dog's epilepsy.

Natural Remedies for Dog Seizures

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice of inserting needles into specific body points, is frequently used to treat canine epilepsy. According to research, the positive effects of acupuncture on canine epilepsy are most likely due to an increase in inhibitory neurotransmitters. Don’t worry: When the needles are inserted, there is no pain. In fact, most animals relax during the procedure. Veterinarian Dr. Acupuncture treatment every two to four weeks for five to eight sessions, followed by treatment every three to six months for maintenance, according to Ronald Koh of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

Diet

While the precise role of nutrition in canine seizures is unknown, case studies show a link between food and epilepsy. Depending on your dog's specific needs, a diet change could significantly reduce convulsions. "Some prescription diets have been shown to reduce seizures by inducing ketosis," says Dr. Krause. A ketogenic diet (low carbohydrate, high fat) is high in medium-chain triacylglycerols. This special diet, which uses fats instead of carbohydrates for energy, can cause the body to enter a state of ketosis, potentially reducing a dog's seizure frequency.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also helpful supplements for dogs who have seizures. Working with a veterinarian nutritionist, you can develop specialized home-cooked meals that may eliminate allergens that cause seizures. Consult your veterinarian about the best options for your dog's requirements.

Nutraceuticals

Dr. "A variety of vitamins and nutritional supplements have been highly effective in decreasing seizures in dogs naturally," Jenny Taylor, founder of Creature Comfort Holistic Veterinary Center, adds. In my practice, we routinely advise our epileptic patients to do the following.: Choline; taurine; L-tryptophan; magnesium; melatonin; phosphatidylserine; and antioxidants such as vitamins C, A, and B complex."Always consult your veterinarian about nutraceuticals and dosages before giving them to your dog.".

Western Herbs

Many natural over-the-counter Western herbs, including Oat straw, milk thistle, and valerian, are used to treat seizures in both capsule and tincture form. Holistic veterinarians frequently recommend using milk thistle in conjunction with phenobarbital. Because it contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, this herb aids in the treatment of liver problems caused by medication. Valerian root, a mild sedative, and oat straw, a calming herb, can help dogs who have seizures caused by stress or anxiety. Before giving your dog herbs or supplements, always consult with your veterinarian about the dosage.

CBD

"I strongly advise using CBD in conjunction with anticonvulsant medications," Dr. Angie. "CBD may be enough to prevent future seizures in some dogs who are starting to have seizures.". CBD may help lengthen the interval between seizures and reduce the severity of seizures in dogs who are already taking anticonvulsant medications.%E2%80%9D According to a groundbreaking double-blinded study by Colorado State University, 89% of dogs who received CBD in a clinical trial had a reduction in the frequency of seizures. But Dr. "It is critical to never discontinue anticonvulsant medications without first consulting with your veterinarian," Angie warns.”

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Flower Essence

Rescue Remedy Pet is another natural seizure prevention option. For an overall calming effect, these drops combine the flower essences of Rock Rose, Clematis, Impatiens, Cherry Plum, and Star of Bethlehem.

Canine Seizure Prevention at Home

You can do more to help a seizure-prone dog. Reducing toxins and chemicals in your home can improve your dog's overall health. "Avoiding environmental toxins like toxic household cleaners and lawn chemicals is always a good idea," says Dr. Krause. Because many epilepsy cases occur as a result of stressful events, look for ways to promote a happy, stress-free lifestyle with plenty of exercise. Make time to ease your dog into stressful situations, such as boarding kennel stays or moving to a new home, to reduce the likelihood of potential fits. Dr. "Stress is hazardous to health, regardless of your dog's age or health status," Krause adds.

Please consult your veterinarian if you are interested in using these natural remedies to treat your dog's seizures. AHVMA and IVAS are excellent resources for locating a holistic veterinarian in your area who provides these natural alternatives for preventing seizures in dogs.

This article exists to disseminate information. However, the topic, like pineapple on pizza, may be contentious. That is, not all veterinarians or pet professionals agree. Because each pet is a one-of-a-kind oddball with specific requirements. When making decisions, consult with your veterinarian and use your best judgment (for both your pet's health and pizza toppings).

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  Is there a natural substitute for Apoquel for dogs?

  Yucca and quercetin are also excellent natural Apoquel substitutes. . Yucca has a similar effect to steroid drugs but without the negative side effects. Quercetin is a plant derivative that acts as a natural antihistamine and is an excellent alternative for dogs whose itching is alleviated by Benadryl.

  What natural seizure treatment can I give my dog?

  Many natural over-the-counter Western herbs are available in capsule and tincture form, including Oat straw, milk thistle, and valerian — are medications used to treat seizures. Holistic veterinarians frequently recommend using milk thistle in conjunction with phenobarbital.

  What can I give my dog instead of Apoquel?

  Alternatives to Apoquel include Prednisone and other corticosteroids, Cytopoint® injections, Atopica® pills, Temaril-P® pills . Non-drug alternatives include immunotherapy injections, allergen avoidance, and frequent bathing.

  What herbal remedies are effective for epilepsy?

  Some of the most commonly used epilepsy herbs include: .

  burning bush.

  groundsel.

  hydrocotyle.

  lily of the valley.

  mistletoe.

  mugwort.

  peony.

  scullcap.