How are dogs tested for epilepsy?

[islasmum]

How are dogs tested for epilepsy?........

[islasmum]

Was the epilepsy controlled by pills? I just wondere if there is there any test, or you have to wait until a dog has a fit?

[jeccosa]

Sorry, i don't know how to test epilepsy. But you can get your dog to hospital and veterinarian will help you.

[islasmum]

Thank you all for your answers - fortunately this question doesn't relate to any of my own dogs, I was just interested to know how epilepsy is diagnosed in dogs.

[islasmum]

Thank you for the link Eddie, that's a very interesting article.

[lankeela]

The Canine Epilepsy Network is a very good site for information:

http://www.canine-epilepsy.net/

There are so many different causes that there is no one test for all types.

[chris552]

My welsh springer had epilepsy. She had one fit and when she had a second one I took her to the vet. They do simple tests. Don't know how. Anyway she was put on medication and lived to 14 years. She had a lot fewer fits as she got older.

[JonnyBoy12]

They say the human brain remembers everything that it sees and hears and thinks in its' entire lifetime, but is this the case with all animals like cats and dogs?

I suppose an elephant would be able to recall everything it had seen all its' life.

[islasmum]

So, basically your dog has to have a fit before he/she can be diagnosed?
(I find the idea that my brain has stored every single thought I have ever had, rather alarming, Jonnyboy!)

[lankeela]

Basically yes, although there are several research projects going in into finding a DNA test for epilepsy but because there are so many possible causes it is difficult. The GSD Health Group are helping to provide samples for one research project as it is believed to be a hereditary problem in some lines.

[lankeela]

http://www.canine-epilepsy.net/cerc.html

[JonnyBoy12]

That is what the experts say, islasmum. On a lighter note the vast majority of this information would be locked up in your sub-conscious mind and would only be found under hypnosis. You will not be able to remember this yourself.

Hope this helps?