Lately, life has been hard. Our sweet Max has been experiencing seizures. He was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy at the age of 2, so we’ve been managing this condition for almost 11 years — and while we’re working closely with our vet, epilepsy is a rollercoaster (and not the fun kind). As any pet parent knows, watching your dog suffer is one of the most helpless, gut-wrenching feelings. If you’re here because you’re going through it too, I want to share a few things that are helping us — physically, logistically, and emotionally.
What’s Helped Us As Dog Epilepsy Caregivers
1. Cameras for Peace of Mind
We set up a camera so we can check on Max at night, when we have a sitter, or even when we leave for 10 minutes (which is rare). It gives us peace of mind and has helped us track seizure patterns.
2. Keeping a Seizure Log
We started tracking every episode: date, time, length, what he ate that day, meds, behavior before/after. It’s helped us notice patterns and gives the vet better data for treatment decisions. We currently just keep this on a shared Google Doc between my partner and I to easily share with one another and our vet.
3. Medication + Routine
Administering medications on a strict schedule has made a significant difference. We set alarms and use a pill organizer. Consistency = key, even when it’s inconvenient. If you’re lucky enough to be around us at 7 AM or 7 PM, you’ll hear our alarms go off, and that means it’s time for meds!
4. Managing Our Own Stress
Caring for a sick pet is emotionally exhausting. We’ve been trying to take turns being “on call,” allowing breaks, and doing small things that help us decompress — even if it’s just a walk or journaling for 10 minutes.
5. Toolkit
We keep all of the necessities in one place so we’re not scrambling around the house when he has a seizure. In our seizure toolkit, we have:
- Medication – to administer his emergency dose when he’s ready
- Baby wipes – wipe him down
- Poop bags – just in case, because it happens!
- Towels – wipe up excess drool
- Stain remover – see poop bags above
- Toy – something to chomp down on post seizure
- Back End Harness – when his back legs don’t cooperate
- Incontinence sheets – in case he has a seizure on the couch or bed and we need to switch them out
- His wagon – when he wants to go out for fresh air but doesn’t have the energy to get around
Final Thoughts
Epilepsy has changed our life with Max — but he’s still the same loving, goofy pup. If you’re going through this too, please know you’re not alone. Some days are scary. Some days are hopeful. And some are just about holding your dog tight and getting through the next minute. That’s enough.
I see you, and I’m with you. 🤍
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