Why is my dog restless and pacing after multiple seizures and Valium?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Camilla! Disorientation, anxiety, panting and not acting normal are normal post seizure. This period can last up to 24 hours. Sometimes the recovery period can be different after each seizure. We can not prescribe medications with out examining Camila. If your Vet has prescribed valium for Camila then I would follow the instructions they provided. There is no interaction with valium, phenobarbital and potassium bromide. If they didn't you will have to get the dosing from them. As long as she isn't having any more seizures I would hold off on any additional medications right now and let her recover. If she has 2-3 seizures in a 24 hour period she needs to be seen by a Vet. I wish you the best!

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Seizures are complicated and every animal is different with their seizures, as well as their 'pre' and 'post' ictal (seizure) state. Some dogs have a post ictal state that can last a day or two, so this could explain her being hyper and restless. This likely will improve as Bella 'gets used' to what the seizure feels like. If seizures are occurring one after the other, mini or full, this is considered 'cluster' seizuring, and means that you might need to address the medication. Best of luck with Bella!

I'm really sorry to hear about poor Bonnie. Unfortunately, acepromazine is not similar to valium for it's anti-seizure effects and can be dangerous to give, so I don't recommend giving it. The fact that she's having a cluster of seizures and is having difficulty resting is concerning enough that she should see a vet as soon as possible. There are other treatment options that can be initiated to help control her seizures. I hope that helps and Bonnie gets better soon.

The signs you are describing are post ictal signs, quite severe but sometimes seen after seizure episodes (one or multiple). If the signs are not resolving in the next 8 hours I would recommend to have her checked by your veterinarian. Phenobarbital levels may need to be checked as well (it is a single blood test) to understand if the blood concentration of this drug is adequate. In case of multiple seizure episodes, especially if lasting more than five minutes each, acute treatment is needed (discuss it with your veterinarian).

Based on the history, a toxicity seems less likely and a primary disease of the brain more likely. If the seizures are not well controlled on phenobarbital it may be that she needs a higher dose. You should discuss phenobarbital levels with your veterinarian. If the levels are in therapeutic range, a second anticonvulsant such as levetiracitam should be considered. Furthermore, you may consider following up with a veterinary neurologist to discuss diagnostics including an MRI of the brain.

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! First, you are no bother at all-that's what's we are here for. Secondly, yes, you have a cause for concern. Any time a known epileptic starts seizing again, especially with any frequency, it's time for a vet visit asap. Likely they will do bloodwork to make sure nothing has changed since you were prescribed medications last. You did not mention any phenobarbital or potassium bromide for long term relief from seizures? Is your dog on any any antiseizure medications or just the Valium as needed? If he is not on medications currently they may very well start him on something for long term relief. If he already is-they will likely adjust the dosages. I hope this helps!

An 11 year old dog suddenly having seizures activity is very concerning. Especially if they are clustering like you describe. There are several possible causes such as low blood glucose from xylitol ingestion, a tumor on the pancreas releasing too much insulin, or something even more concerning such as a brain tumor. I would highly encourage you have her evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. It was unclear to if you were previously at the emergency clinic due to this issue or something else. However, if it was due to this then I would call the veterinarian and ask if you can have some diazepam to give this evening to see if you can keep her seizure free until tomorrow. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.