Living with Canine Epilepsy: A Journey of Love, Loss, and Hope

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM), a time to raise awareness, share experiences, and remind those affected by epilepsy that they are not alone. While much of the conversation focuses on people living with the condition, our canine companions can suffer from epilepsy, too. As someone who has shared life with two remarkable Epi-warriors, this is a subject very near and dear to my heart.

The two dogs pictured above were my beloved Lana and Darren. They weren't just pets; they were family, companions, and an important part of our everyday lives. They taught me about unconditional love, patience, resilience, and the strength it takes to face challenges we never expected.

Both were still young when epilepsy entered our lives. Darren was only two years old, and Lana was four. Within the span of just two days, they each suffered their first seizures. The diagnosis was idiopathic epilepsy, a form of epilepsy in which no underlying cause can be identified despite appropriate investigation. Suddenly, our lives revolved around medication schedules, veterinary appointments, careful observation, and the constant uncertainty of not knowing when another seizure might occur.

I did everything I could to give them the care, dignity, and joy they deserved. But their journeys eventually took heartbreaking turns. Darren suffered a massive stroke, while Lana lost her battle with bladder cancer. They passed away within four days of each other.

Losing them so close together was devastating beyond words. The grief was compounded by the knowledge that I had spent years caring for two dogs with complicated medical needs, doing everything I could to help them enjoy the best possible quality of life.

To work through my grief and raise awareness, I wrote Living with Canine Epilepsy, a book about their journey and the lessons they taught me. My hope has always been that other dog parents will understand that an epilepsy diagnosis does not automatically mean the end of a happy, meaningful life.

Their story is one of the reasons I continue to speak about canine epilepsy. Although Lana and Darren are no longer by my side, their legacy lives on in every person who learns something new about this condition and every Epi-warrior whose family finds encouragement in their experience.

Epilepsy: Not Just a Human Condition

When most people hear the word epilepsy, they think of humans. Yet dogs can develop epilepsy, too, and it is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders affecting our canine companions.

Epilepsy is characterized by a tendency to experience recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure occurs when abnormal electrical activity in the brain temporarily disrupts normal brain function. The outward signs can vary considerably. Some dogs experience dramatic convulsions, while others may display much subtler changes in movement, awareness, or behavior.

Because seizures can occur while a dog is resting or sleeping, an owner may not witness the first episode. A dog might wake up disoriented, seem unusually tired, or behave differently after an event that occurred during the night. Other episodes may be brief enough that their significance is overlooked.

This is one reason awareness matters. Recognizing that something is wrong and seeking veterinary advice can be the first step toward identifying the cause and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

November's epilepsy awareness efforts also provide an opportunity to remember that this condition affects families in different ways. For people living with epilepsy, awareness can mean greater understanding and support. For dog parents, it can mean learning what a seizure looks like, knowing how to respond, and understanding that they are not alone in the challenges they face.

During Epilepsy Awareness Month, I wear purple in honor of everyone affected by epilepsy, including the countless dogs whose struggles may go unnoticed by the wider public.

What Is Canine Epilepsy?

Watching a dog experience a seizure can be frightening, especially the first time. A dog may suddenly fall over, lose awareness, stiffen, paddle their legs, or make involuntary movements. Some lose control of their bladder or bowels. Other seizures may involve localized twitching, repetitive movements, or unusual behavior without the dramatic convulsions many people associate with epilepsy.

The ancient physician Hippocrates once referred to epilepsy as the “sacred disease.” But anyone who has watched a beloved dog experience a seizure knows there is nothing sacred about the helplessness of standing nearby, wanting desperately to make everything all right.

Seizures can have several causes, and not every seizure means a dog has epilepsy. Veterinarians investigate possible underlying problems before determining the most likely diagnosis.

Two terms dog parents may encounter are:

Genetic epilepsy: In some dogs, epilepsy has a hereditary basis. Certain breeds and family lines have a greater predisposition to developing the condition.

Idiopathic epilepsy: This is diagnosed when recurrent seizures occur without an identifiable underlying cause after appropriate evaluation. Genetic factors may play a role in some cases, even when a specific cause cannot be established.

Idiopathic epilepsy was the diagnosis given to Lana and Darren. Their experiences taught me that even when two dogs share the same diagnosis, their journeys may not be identical. Each dog has individual needs, responds differently to treatment, and requires a care plan tailored to their circumstances.

Although epilepsy generally cannot be cured, it can often be managed with veterinary care and appropriate medication. Treatment aims to reduce seizure frequency and severity, minimize adverse effects, and preserve the dog's quality of life.

For some dogs, treatment brings substantial improvement. Others continue to experience seizures despite medication adjustments. Regular communication with a veterinarian is essential, especially when seizure patterns change or treatment appears less effective.

An epilepsy diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first, but it is not automatically a death sentence. With appropriate care, many affected dogs continue to enjoy companionship, play, walks, and all the ordinary pleasures that make life worth living.

A Day in the Life with Epi-Warriors

Caring for two dogs with epilepsy reshaped almost every part of my daily life. Our days revolved around medication, structure, observation, and vigilance. What might seem like an ordinary routine to someone else became an essential part of keeping Lana and Darren comfortable and safe.

On the good days, life had a comforting rhythm.

Our mornings began with a wake-up call courtesy of two cold, wet noses at 6:00 a.m. Breakfast and the first round of medication followed by 7:00. By mid-morning, we would be heading outside for a walk or jog, or using the treadmill when the weather refused to cooperate.

There were errands to run, playtime to enjoy, and the quiet companionship that makes sharing a home with dogs so special. Dinner and evening medication came around 7:00 p.m., followed by snuggles and bedtime.

These ordinary moments mattered. Epilepsy was part of our lives, but it did not define everything about them. Lana and Darren still wanted to explore, play, be close to us, and enjoy the world around them. They were dogs first, and they deserved opportunities to experience the pleasures of being dogs.

Eventually, Darren developed liver complications that required a change from Phenobarbital to Keppra. His new medication schedule meant dosing three times a day, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our routine became even more demanding, but consistency helped us manage the additional responsibilities.

Medication schedules can be particularly challenging when they extend throughout the day. Work, appointments, errands, and unexpected events all have to be considered. Missing a dose or changing a schedule without veterinary guidance can create problems, so organization becomes an important part of daily care.

For us, the routine was not simply a list of tasks. It was an expression of our commitment to Lana and Darren. Every dose, every appointment, and every adjustment was part of trying to give them the best lives possible.

On the hard days, everything could change in an instant.

Seizures most often struck between midnight and 5:00 a.m. I would leap out of bed to find one or both dogs convulsing. In those moments, fear and instinct took over. My first priority was to keep them safe, move nearby hazards out of the way, and monitor what was happening.

Once the seizure ended, there was often a period of confusion and disorientation. I would stay nearby, watching their recovery and following the veterinary instructions we had been given. Sometimes that meant administering prescribed rescue medication according to the plan established with our veterinarian.

Then came the practical aftermath: replacing soiled bedding, cleaning carpets, and gently helping them get comfortable again. There were times when I sat on the floor beside them, waiting for their breathing to settle and their familiar personalities to return.

And sometimes, before we had caught our breath, another seizure would begin. Repeated seizures could send us into another exhausting cycle of monitoring, cleanup, medication, and concern, sometimes ending in an emergency veterinary visit. It was relentless. It was exhausting. It could be frightening and emotionally draining. And yet, I would do so much of it again for the love they gave in return.

The Emotional Side of Living with Canine Epilepsy

One aspect of canine epilepsy that can be difficult to explain to someone who has never experienced it is the uncertainty. When a dog has a broken leg, an infection, or another condition with a recognizable course of treatment, there may be a clearer sense of what to expect. Epilepsy can be different. A dog may have a good stretch of days or weeks, allowing the household to settle into a comfortable routine, only for another seizure to interrupt that sense of normality.

Even during quiet periods, the possibility of another episode can remain in the back of your mind. You may find yourself listening more closely at night, checking on your dog more frequently, or hesitating to leave home because you worry about what might happen while you're away. Sleep can become difficult, especially after a night of repeated seizures. Over time, the combination of interrupted rest, constant vigilance, and emotional stress can take a toll on caregivers.

There can also be guilt. Dog parents may wonder whether they missed a warning sign, whether a different treatment might have helped, or whether they could have done something to prevent a seizure. These questions are understandable, but seizures are not necessarily preventable, even when a dog receives excellent care.

Living with epilepsy means learning to distinguish between what you can control and what you cannot. You can maintain a medication schedule, record seizure activity, attend veterinary appointments, and provide a safe environment. You cannot always predict or prevent the next episode.

For me, one of the most important lessons was to appreciate the good days without allowing fear of the bad ones to take them away from us. Lana and Darren deserved to enjoy their lives, and I wanted to enjoy them, too.

If you are caring for an Epi-warrior, please remember that your well-being matters too. Ask for help when you need it, talk with people who understand, and give yourself permission to rest whenever you can. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. It is part of sustaining the love and care your dog needs.

How to Help Your Dog Through a Seizure

Every dog with epilepsy should have an individualized care plan developed with a veterinarian. The following practical steps can help you respond more confidently, but they do not replace professional veterinary advice.

1. Keep Your Dog Safe

If a seizure begins, move furniture and other nearby hazards out of the way if you can do so safely. Keep your dog away from stairs, sharp edges, and objects that could fall or cause injury. Do not attempt to restrain your dog or pick them up during active convulsions. If they are in immediate danger, such as near a staircase, take care to protect yourself as well as your dog.

2. Protect Yourself and Reduce Disturbances

A dog experiencing a seizure is not in control of their movements and may not be aware of their surroundings. Keep children and other pets at a safe distance, and avoid placing your hands near the dog's mouth. Dogs do not swallow their tongues during seizures. Never put your fingers, food, water, or other objects into their mouths. Keep the surroundings as calm and safe as possible. Avoid unnecessary handling, and give your dog room to recover without additional disturbance.

3. Time the Seizure

Use a watch or phone to record when the seizure begins and ends. What feels like an eternity may actually be a much shorter episode, and an accurate duration can help your veterinarian assess the situation. If it is safe to do so, a short video may also help your veterinarian understand the type of event your dog experienced. Never delay necessary care to record a seizure.

4. Know When to Seek Emergency Care

A seizure lasting five minutes or longer is a medical emergency. Repeated seizures within a 24-hour period, or seizures that occur without your dog fully recovering between them, also require urgent veterinary attention. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog experiences a first seizure, if the pattern or severity changes, or if you are concerned about their recovery. Follow your veterinarian's instructions for your particular dog, including any individualized emergency plan. Do not wait for a seizure to reach five minutes before seeking help if your veterinarian has advised you to act sooner.

5. Follow the Prescribed Treatment Plan

Some dogs have prescribed rescue medication for use during a seizure or when a cluster of seizures begins. These medications must be administered according to the veterinarian's specific instructions. Never improvise a dose, give medication intended for another animal, or change your dog's regular medication schedule without veterinary guidance. If you are uncertain about what to do, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic.

6. Record Each Episode

A seizure journal can be an invaluable tool. Record the date, time, duration, symptoms, and any unusual behavior before or after the event. Note how long your dog takes to return to their usual self, and document any medication changes or concerns. Over time, these records may help your veterinarian identify patterns, assess treatment effectiveness, and decide whether adjustments are needed.

7. Support Recovery

After a seizure, a dog may be tired, confused, restless, temporarily disoriented, or unusually hungry or thirsty. Recovery varies from dog to dog. Give your companion a quiet, safe place to recover and supervise them until they are behaving normally. Offer water and food only when they are alert enough to swallow safely, and follow your veterinarian's guidance. If recovery seems unusually prolonged, your dog has difficulty breathing, suffers an injury, or develops other concerning symptoms, seek veterinary advice promptly.

Awareness, Understanding, and Hope

Raising awareness about canine epilepsy is about more than recognizing a seizure. It is about understanding what happens afterward, appreciating the responsibilities that come with long-term care, and recognizing the emotional impact on the entire family.

It is also about challenging misconceptions. A dog with epilepsy is not necessarily fragile, unhappy, or unable to enjoy life. The condition may require medication, monitoring, and adjustments to everyday routines, but many dogs continue to experience the same affection, excitement, companionship, and joy as any other dog.

Each dog's situation is different, and some cases are more difficult to manage than others. Treatment may require patience and repeated adjustments, and not every dog responds as hoped. Still, an epilepsy diagnosis does not erase the personality, needs, or capacity for happiness that made you fall in love with your dog in the first place.

For those just beginning this journey, the learning curve can feel steep. You may need to become familiar with unfamiliar medications, learn how to document seizures, and prepare for situations you never imagined facing. You may also discover a strength and determination you did not know you possessed.

Most importantly, remember that you do not have to navigate everything alone. Your veterinarian is an essential partner in your dog's care, and other families living with canine epilepsy may understand your fears and frustrations in ways that others cannot. Sharing experiences, asking questions, and learning from one another can help replace some of the isolation with understanding. Every conversation that increases awareness can make a difference.

A Final Word of Hope

During National Epilepsy Awareness Month—and throughout the year—I want dog parents to remember this: a diagnosis of canine epilepsy does not mean that all the good days are behind you.

Yes, there may be sleepless nights, veterinary expenses, medication adjustments, uncertainty, and heartbreak. There may be moments when you feel overwhelmed and wonder how you will find the strength to keep going. But there can also be walks in the sunshine, enthusiastic greetings at the door, muddy paw prints across the floor, favorite toys, quiet companionship, and those precious moments when your dog rests their head against you and reminds you why every effort matters.

Living with canine epilepsy taught me patience, resilience, and above all, the power of love. Lana and Darren may no longer be here physically, but they remain an important part of my life. Through Living with Canine Epilepsy and the awareness work I continue to share, I hope their story will encourage other families facing similar challenges.

To every Epi-warrior and the people who love them: may your days hold more comfort than fear, more joyful moments than difficult ones, and the support you need when the road becomes challenging. Take a deep breath. Take it one day at a time. Celebrate the good moments, ask for help when you need it, and hold on to the love your dog brings into your life. And to Lana and Darren, my beloved Epi-warriors: thank you for everything you taught me. You are still making a difference. 💜

Want to learn more about Living with Canine Epilepsy? Click here

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.