Reply #7: My Lab has had seizures from epilepsy for almost 10 years

[lukasahero]

I don't think you have to "rush" her to the vet but yes, you probably should have her checked out. One of the cause of seizures is epilepsy which, unfortunately, can be difficult to diagnose. However, since seizures can be caused by things (toxins, poisons) other than epilpsy, you definitely want to get her checked out sooner rather than later.

If your vet suggests it is epilepsy, do not let them talk you into putting her on pheno-barbital (the recommended treatment) immediately. As I said, my Lab has lived with epilepsy for 10 years and he has never been on barbituates. His seizures happen about once every three months, and while they are grand mal (pretty severe), there it little danger in the seizures themselves and once you put a dog on barbs, taking them off can be worse than the normal course of the disease.

Monitor her seizures - if they happen frequently and last for a long time, then you probably will have to go with the pheno, but again, take your time before deciding that - you do have time.

It's a real tough thing to watch - they suddenly seem so vulnerable and small (no matter their size) - but it's not as dangerous for them as it looks to us. Hang in there and let us know what your vet says and what you decide to do.