Is your Pomeranian showing signs of seizures? Or maybe you’re considering adopting a Pomeranian with a seizure condition but aren’t sure if you’re prepared for the responsibility. Today on Pommy Mommy, we’re hearing from Lupe, a nurse, and Pommy Mommy to two beloved Pomeranians, Daisy and Cocoa. Lupe shares her journey with Daisy, who developed seizures, and offers insights on how to manage the condition.
Daisy’s Journey: Recognizing the Signs of Seizures
Daisy came into Lupe’s life in 2009 when her previous owners could no longer care for her. Initially, Lupe wasn’t aware of any health concerns with Daisy. But a few months after adoption, she noticed Daisy acting strangely. During one episode, Daisy’s pupils became very large; she began swaying, crouching down, and trembling. While it only lasted a few minutes, Lupe and her husband were puzzled and assumed Daisy might have been spooked.
A couple of months later, Daisy experienced another, more severe episode. One side of her body stiffened this time, and she trembled longer. Concerned, Lupe contacted her vet, who recommended lab work to check for abnormalities, including a Complete Blood Count (CBC), electrolyte levels, and thyroid function. Despite the comprehensive tests, Daisy’s lab results were normal, leaving the cause of her episodes unknown.
Initial Treatment and Monitoring Daisy’s Seizures
Initially, Daisy’s vet prescribed Ativan (Lorazepam) as a seizure medication to be used as needed, especially since Daisy’s episodes were infrequent and didn’t last long. The vet wanted to avoid daily medication unless necessary, hoping that the seizures would not become more frequent or severe. However, as time passed, Daisy’s seizures grew in frequency and intensity, lasting up to five minutes. Lupe noticed telltale signs, like Daisy’s enlarged pupils, body stiffness, and tremors before each seizure.
Understanding that Daisy’s condition was progressing, the vet decided to prescribe Phenobarbital twice a day to help control the seizures. Since Phenobarbital requires monitoring, Daisy had regular lab work to ensure her blood levels stayed within a therapeutic range. Although adjusting to a scheduled medication was a big step, it ultimately provided Daisy with greater stability and reduced her seizure frequency.
Understanding Seizures in Pomeranians: Causes and Symptoms
Seizures in dogs, including Pomeranians, can have various causes, though the exact cause is unknown in many cases. Common reasons for seizures can include:
- Genetic predisposition: Genetic factors make certain breeds, including Pomeranians, more susceptible to seizures.
- Metabolic issues: Imbalances in blood sugar or other metabolic problems can trigger seizures.
- Brain tumors: Although rare, tumors can sometimes be the underlying cause, especially in older dogs.
- Unknown causes: Many dogs with seizures have idiopathic epilepsy, where no identifiable cause is found despite thorough testing.
Symptoms can vary from mild, such as staring spells or slight tremors, to severe, like whole-body tremors, loss of control, and even vomiting after the episode. In Daisy’s case, Lupe could tell a seizure was approaching by her dilated pupils and body stiffening.
Keeping Track of Seizures: A Critical Part of Care
When a dog has seizures, monitoring and documenting each episode carefully is essential. Recording specific details helps veterinarians assess patterns and make informed treatment recommendations. Lupe emphasizes documenting the following:
- What the seizure looked like: Note any specific movements, body stiffness, or tremors.
- Duration: Keep track of how long the seizure lasts, as this helps in understanding severity and frequency.
- Frequency: Recording when seizures happen allows you to spot patterns, such as increased episodes during specific times or after certain activities.
Documenting Daisy’s seizures helped Lupe’s vet gauge the effectiveness of the treatment and determine when it was time to increase or adjust Daisy’s medications.
Safety Tips for Handling a Seizing Pomeranian
While it can be frightening to witness your Pom having a seizure, it’s essential to stay calm and focus on their safety. There’s not much you can do to stop a seizure, but you can make your Pom more comfortable and reduce the risk of injury. Here are some tips:
- Clear the Area: Move any objects or furniture that could harm your Pom while seizing, and remove any items around them to create a safe space.
- Stay Close but Don’t Interfere: Do not hold or restrain your Pomeranian, as this can cause accidental injury. Instead, stay nearby and observe.
- Monitor the Duration: Time the seizure to determine its duration. If it lasts more than five minutes, it’s considered an emergency, and you should contact a vet immediately.
- Provide Comfort Post-Seizure: Your Pom may be confused or disoriented after a seizure. Speak to them calmly and reassuringly, and give them a quiet space to recover.
Living with a Pomeranian with Seizures: Daily Care and Medication
Since Daisy’s seizures progressed, she now takes Phenobarbital twice a day. Phenobarbital is one of the most common medications for seizure control in dogs, but it requires ongoing lab work to monitor blood levels. Starting medication can feel overwhelming, especially with potential side effects, but it’s often necessary to maintain quality of life.
Daisy’s main side effect has been mild drowsiness, but thankfully, the medication hasn’t changed her personality. Lupe admits that she initially worried about the medication’s impact on Daisy’s sweet nature, but ultimately, the treatment helps Daisy live comfortably and seizure-free.
The Importance of Veterinary Support and Regular Checkups
If your Pomeranian has seizures, it is crucial to communicate closely with your vet. Regular checkups ensure that medication levels remain effective and safe and that no new health concerns have developed. Dog seizures can be a lifelong condition, so having a supportive vet can make a world of difference.
Daisy’s vet regularly assesses her health and adjusts her Phenobarbital dosage based on her seizure frequency and overall health. Because of these checkups, Daisy can live a happy, healthy life with her sister, Cocoa.
Embracing Life with a Seizure-Prone Pomeranian
Although managing a Pomeranian with seizures requires extra care and attention, it doesn’t mean your Pom can’t live a joyful life. Daisy continues to thrive with her loving family despite the challenges of her condition. Lupe reminds other Pom owners that while seizures are concerning, a structured routine, veterinary care, and proper medication can help manage them effectively.
Even though Daisy’s seizures mean she’ll be on medication for the rest of her life, Lupe’s commitment to her care has given Daisy a chance to live her best life. For Lupe, the companionship and happiness Daisy brings far outweigh the challenges.
Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Pom Through Seizures
Witnessing a beloved Pomeranian experience seizures can be emotional and challenging. However, as Lupe’s story with Daisy shows, seizures don’t have to define your Pom’s life. With the proper care, attention, and a knowledgeable vet, Pomeranians with seizures can still enjoy a full, happy life.
If you’re considering adopting a Pomeranian with a history of seizures, know that while the journey may involve some extra responsibilities, it’s also gratifying. These little dogs bring endless joy, and with proper care, they can live long, happy lives—even with a condition as complex as seizures.
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