International Epilepsy Day 2026: Understanding Canine Epilepsy and Raising Awareness

Epi-warriors Lana and Darren sitting in front of the fireplace.

I'm changing things up this week for a cause near and dear to my heart: This week is not only Valentine's Day but today is International Epilepsy Day! This initiative is jointly sponsored by the International Bureau for Epilepsy and the International League Against Epilepsy. It is a global event which takes place on the second Monday of February each year with the aim to improve epilepsy awareness and highlights the urgent need for further research of this debilitating condition. Epilepsy not only affects just the patients but their families, too. And incidentally, this week my Epi-warrior Lana would have celebrated her 21th birthday. How appropriate!

Epilepsy affects millions of people worldwide, but it also impacts our canine companions. On International Epilepsy Day 2026, it is crucial to bring attention to canine epilepsy, a condition that often goes unnoticed or misunderstood. Dogs with epilepsy face unique challenges, and raising awareness can improve their care and quality of life.

Understanding Canine Epilepsy

Epilepsy in dogs is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. These seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Unlike a one-time seizure caused by injury or illness, epilepsy involves repeated episodes that can vary in frequency and severity.

Common signs of canine epilepsy include:

• Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness

• Muscle twitching or convulsions

• Drooling or foaming at the mouth

• Staring or unresponsiveness

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

  
  

Seizures typically last from a few seconds to several minutes. After a seizure, dogs may appear confused, tired, or disoriented.

Causes and Diagnosis

Epilepsy in dogs can be classified as:

• Idiopathic epilepsy: No identifiable cause, often hereditary

• Structural epilepsy: Caused by brain tumors, infections, or trauma

• Reactive seizures: Resulting from metabolic issues like low blood sugar or toxins

  
  

Veterinarians diagnose epilepsy through a combination of medical history, physical exams, neurological tests, and diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Blood tests help rule out other causes of seizures.

Managing Canine Epilepsy

While epilepsy cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with proper treatment. The goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures to improve the dog's quality of life.

Medication

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the primary treatment. Common medications include phenobarbital, potassium bromide, and levetiracetam. Dosage and choice depend on the dog's health, seizure type, and response to treatment.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Owners can help by:

• Keeping a seizure diary to track episodes and triggers

• Providing a safe environment to prevent injury during seizures

• Avoiding known seizure triggers such as stress or flashing lights

• Maintaining a consistent routine with regular feeding and exercise

  
  

Regular Veterinary Care

Frequent check-ups are essential to monitor medication levels and adjust treatment. Blood tests help detect side effects early, as some medications can affect liver or kidney function.

Supporting Dogs and Their Owners

Living with canine epilepsy can be stressful for both dogs and their owners. Support networks, including veterinary professionals, trainers, and epilepsy support groups, offer valuable resources.

Training dogs to respond calmly during seizures and educating owners on first aid can make a significant difference. For example, gently moving the dog away from hazards and timing the seizure can help veterinarians tailor treatment.

Why International Epilepsy Day Matters

International Epilepsy Day, observed annually, aims to increase understanding and reduce stigma around epilepsy. Including canine epilepsy in this conversation highlights the shared challenges faced by humans and animals.

Raising awareness helps:

• Encourage early diagnosis and treatment

• Promote research into better therapies

• Foster empathy and support for affected families

• Improve public knowledge about seizure first aid

  
  

Veterinarians and animal welfare organizations often hold events, share educational materials, and advocate for funding on this day.

How You Can Help

You can contribute to raising awareness for canine epilepsy by:

• Sharing information on social media or community boards

• Participating in or organizing local events on International Epilepsy Day

• Supporting charities and research focused on epilepsy in animals

• Learning seizure first aid and spreading knowledge among pet owners

  
  

Every effort helps improve the lives of dogs living with epilepsy and their families.

Please know that you are not alone with this monster called Epilepsy and that such a diagnosis is not the end! There is support out there, with many Epi-warrior parents, veterinarians and other resources available to share their insights, experiences, and information. I have shared many resources and websites in the back of my book, LIVING WITH CANINE EPILEPSY, for that very reason. And if you can't find what you are looking for then ask around...I'm sure there is someone out there who can help.

by A. Piper Burgi

Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads.