I would welcome input, Dublin had a seizure about an hour ago....UPDATE

[Susan L.]

Dub has epilepsy. He has had 3 more seizures since last night. We started him on the pheno this morning and so far not so great but we are hoping. The vet is concerned because he is clustering but he is settled now and we will take him to the hospital overnight if things get bad. Such a gorgous dog, such a tragic turn of events the past two weeks. I wish things were how there were before but I can't go back now. I didn't think it would progress this fast.

[Astrid Landsaat]

Hello Melissa,

I am very sorry to hear about your dog. How old was she when she had her first seizure?

Because of his age it is more likely that Dublin has idiopathic epilepsy. He is to young to develop brain cancer.

[melissa mcclure]

Hi Astrid,
My Golden, Amber she was 9 when she had her first seizure and was just over 10 when she passed away. I had only had her for just under 2 years.

[Julie Brown]

I know that is so hard to watch them and be so helpless. My Irish is 8 yrs Maggie she's has had several seizures for the last 5 yrs. but in the last year I think they finally gotten her medication right! I think that is key!
PS I have another setter named Dublin. God bless.

[melissa mcclure]

yep the correct dosage is the key for epilepsy

[Susan L.]

Thanks everyone. Your responses are so appreciated. He is only 2 years old. And yes they said idiopathic. He just started his seizures three weeks ago. Nothing before that. I am keeping him a little less active due to the start of meds has him just a wee bit off kilter. He is really doing very well on the dose. Not what I had expected. Sleepy yes, but he always slept thru the day and waited for his time after I get home from work for our couple of hours outdoors. He chased butterflies today and I felt like things were normal again. Did a little frizbee and then I called in a day. I have to see how this goes before I feel safe doing our normal routine again.

[Gene]

My first Setter Chelsea had issues with seizures. The first time was so scary, I thought I was going to lose her. As I recall, the vet didn't even prescribe any medication (this was about 10 years ago). Whenever it happened, I would just hold her tight for the 5-7 minute period till it subsided.

Glad that Dub is doing well and great to know that there are medical options now. Please keep us posted.

[Susan Stone]

Hello Susan,
I am pleased to hear Dublin is doing ok on his initial treatment. It will be a rollercoaster ride for you yet, but hopefully you will both be able to lead a reasonably normal life once Dublin's epilepsy is under control. I know it is sad that things will never be quite the same as before - but hopefully over time you will both come to terms and be able to live with the condition.

In the most recent newsletter of the Irish Setter Breeder's Club (UK) there is a long article by Michelle Webster who writes about living with an epileptic setter. I am sure she would send it to you if you are interested.

Wishing you all the best
Susan Stone

[Astrid Landsaat]

You can find Michelle's article on my website about epilepsy aswell:
http://epilepsiebijhonden.hyves.nl/forum/3410201/1bVV/LIVING_WITH_E...

[Ann Millington]

I have just read your article, Michelle. It is EXCELLENT. Thank you for putting so much information and your own thoughts into it.... how good to get to the end of the 'roller-coaster' story and find not only comfort but hope!

The very important message is "Fitting or Seizure is not always Epilepsy" - dogs fit for many different reasons, but it is imperitive that owners find out why the fitting/seizures occur and find out as quickly as possible.

Having read all the experiences of mailers on this topic, I can only say how much I commend your spirit and love of your dogs.

Well done Setter people.
An!

[Michelle Webster]

Hi Ann,
Thanks for the comments, I'm delighted to know that my article helps and that others have found the information useful.

[ursula wilby]

It is an excellent article Michelle!

[ursula wilby]

Thank you for the link Astrid!