Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Seizures triggered by intense exercise in a young dog
By Motta, L & Dutton, E·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2013·ChesterGates Animal Referral Hospital·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Suspected exercise-induced seizures in a young dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 12-month-old female neutered crossbreed experienced seizure-like episodes only during intense exercise. After thorough testing to rule out other causes, the dog was monitored with a special heart device during an episode, which showed a rapid heartbeat along with typical seizure signs like limb shaking and frothing at the mouth. Instead of prescribing antiepileptic medications, the veterinarian advised the owner to avoid intense exercise. The dog has since done well, with no seizures reported after 12 months of moderate exercise. This case suggests that intense physical activity may trigger a new type of reflex seizure in dogs.
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Abstract
A 12-month-old female neutered crossbreed was referred for investigation of seizure-like episodes occurring only at intense exercise. Thorough medical, neurological and cardiac investigations were performed and excluded the most commonly known causes of seizure-like activity. The dog was fitted with an ambulatory electrocardiography device and underwent another exercise-induced seizure. The electrocardiogram during the episode revealed a sinus tachycardia at approximately 300 beats/minute. A video recording of the episode revealed generalised tonic clonic limb activity with jaw chomping and frothing at the mouth typical of seizure activity. Antiepileptic medications were not prescribed and the owner was advised not to exercise the dog intensely. The dog responded well and did not seizure after 12 months of mild-moderate off-lead exercise. As all the seizures in this case were triggered by intense physical activity, it is suggested that this may be a new form of reflex seizure activity.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23387942/