Success Story: Chewy

Chewy, the 4-year-old Chihuahua, was having seizures that would last between five to 10 minutes, on occasion.

Seizures can be a scary thing to watch your pet go through. Like humans, dogs experiencing seizures might foam at the mouth or drool, they may twitch or move spastically, they may collapse or lose consciousness, and can even lose bladder control. Seizures happen to be one of the genetic health concerns for Chihuahuas, and some other dog breeds. Seizures can begin suddenly after years of good health. They can be hereditary (passed on from parents), or can be brought on by things like:

1. environmental factors such as eating something poison or a traumatic head injury
2. illnesses such as low blood sugar, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and kidney or liver disease, among others
3. and neurological disorders.

It was very difficult for Chewy’s owner to watch his constant companion go through a seizure, but he had been laid off from work in December, and the budget was tight. Knowing that Chewy wouldn't survive if he didn’t go to the veterinarian for necessary medication, his owner reached out to Fur Kids Foundation for support. We are happy to report that the Foundation was able to help him go to the vet, and get the daily medication to help keep Chewy seizure free.

If you have seen your dog experience the symptoms outlined above, please take them to the vet. With medication, and proper check ups, dogs with seizures can often live long and happy lives. We also found a few great articles on seizures in dogs. Feel free to check them out. 

1. The Bark: Vet Advice-Seizures in dogs and canine epilepsy
2. Cesar’s Way: How to recognize and handle dog seizures 
3. Pet MD: Dog seizure symptoms

If you would like to help Fur Kids Foundation continue to help families with animals, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. The money helps families during a time when they may not be able to afford adequate veterinary care. Check out more Success Stories.