Epilepsy in Labradors
- Idiopathic epilepsy seizures can be mild to severe.labrador image by Viacheslav Anyakin from Fotolia.com
"Idiopathic" means of unknown cause. With this form, seizures usually begin when the dog is between ages one and five. It can affect many different breeds, but is common in Labs. - Labs with atypical epilepsy may develop more classic seizures later in life.apr?¡§s l"effort image by Maurice METZGER from Fotolia.com
Another form of epilepsy that has been documented in Labs is atypical epilepsy. This form is almost exclusive in Labs. It closely resembles another disorder called exercise-induced collapse, but it usually occurs without warning and the Lab recovers quickly. - A lab experiencing an atypical seizure may crawl instead of walking.intent black labrador puppy image by Scott Slattery from Fotolia.com
Idiopathic seizures can range from the dog's just looking dazed to losing consciousness. In atypical epilepsy, the dog will retain consciousness during the seizure and will even be able to obey commands, but will experience anxiety, difficulty walking, uncontrollable trembling and muscle rigidity that will last two to five minutes on average. - Atypical epilepsy is distinguished by its sudden occurence and recovery.retriever image by Penny Williams from Fotolia.com
Genetics plays a role in both forms of epilepsy in Labs. Episodes can be triggered by extreme exercise or excitement, or occur for no apparent reason. - Most labs can live a normal life on antiseizure medication.Black Labrador Retriever image by crazy.nataly from Fotolia.com
Epilepsy in Labs cannot be cured. However, with use of antiseizure medications like phenobarbital and potassium bromide, it can usually be well controlled.
