A dog owner enters into this pet owning relationship knowing full well that there will be times and situations that must be endured that will prove to be some of the most difficult of their entire life. One of those particular events occurs, when a loving dog owner must watch helplessly as their best friend suffers through an epileptic seizure and is forced to accept the fact that they can do nothing to stop it, and can only help by making the animal a bit more comfortable during the whole ordeal.
It is not fully known why epilepsy occurs in a dog, but it is known that hereditary factors can play a part, as there are a number of different breeds who are predisposed to developing the condition. Some of those breeds include, Cocker Spaniel, Basset Hound, Beagle, Collie breeds, Daschund, Setter breeds, Springer Spaniel, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Greyhound, Keeshond, Labrador Retriever, Poodle breeds, Corgi, Pointer, Pug, Saint Bernard and Vizsla.
Additionally, it is believed that many dogs suffering from seizures have a magnesium deficiency and/or a low thyroid. Talk to your vet about having your pet tested for thyroid problems and the possibility of decreasing seizure medication and adding more Magnesium to the dog's diet.
Doses of magnesium should start off as follows:
Small dogs 10mg
Medium dogs 20mg
Large dogs 50mg
Giant dogs 75mg
If your dog experiences diarrhea or gas, then cut back on the dosages slightly until the problem stops and then slowly increase them again.
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