The Epi Dog Mom Blog

Aussie Love, Epilepsy Struggles, and the Hope That Keeps Us Going

POSTS

  • How the Time Change Can Affect Your Dog’s Seizure Control ⏰

    Daylight Saving Time ends soon, and for those of us caring for dogs with epilepsy, medication timing matters more than ever. Even a small shift in timing can affect your dog’s blood levels of anti-seizure medications (AEDs), which may increase the risk of breakthrough seizures. Planning ahead helps you avoid unnecessary setbacks.

    When We Fall Back (End of Daylight Saving Time)🍂

    When the clocks move back one hour, you have two choices:

    1️⃣ Shift with the new time
    Example: If your dog gets medication at 8:00 AM/PM, you’ll now give it at 7:00 AM/PM (new time).
    ✅ This keeps the 12-hour interval consistent and often works best for most families. Earlier doses help maintain stable blood levels, making this the easiest and safest option.

    2️⃣ Stay on the “old” time
    Example: Still giving meds at 8:00 AM/PM (old time) after the time changes.
    ⚠️ This creates a 13-hour gap between doses instead of 12, which can allow AED levels to dip. If you choose this route, make gradual adjustments (15 minutes earlier each day over several days) leading up to the time change. This helps minimize the risk of breakthrough seizures.

    When We Spring Forward (Start of Daylight Saving Time)🌸

    When the clocks move forward one hour, the situation is a little easier:

    1️⃣ Shift with the clock
    Example: 7:00 becomes 8:00.
    There’s no gap — it just bumps the schedule forward an hour. Most people can switch right over without issue.

    2️⃣ Stay on the “old” time
    Gradually adjust forward over several days if you want to maintain your original 12-hour interval.

    🐾 How I Handle It With Forrest’s Meds

    Forrest’s regular medication schedule during Daylight Saving Time is 8 AM / 8 PM.

    • When we fall back, we switch to 7 AM / 7 PM to maintain a true 12-hour schedule.
    • When we spring forward, we shift back to 8 AM / 8 PM again.

    If you’re planning any schedule adjustments for your dog, it’s wise to check with your neurologist about using pulse doses of Keppra or Diazepam during the transition period to help prevent breakthrough seizures. Forrest’s neurologist has advised using Diazepam this way if we stick to our regular 8:00 schedule instead of falling back to 7 AM / PM like we always have before. I’ve been considering it, but the thought of adjusting his meds makes me nervous, so as of now I’m unsure what I will do.

    Why This Matters: Circadian Rhythms and Seizures🌙

    Our epi dogs have very fragile circadian rhythms, and many seizures are tied to these natural cycles. When the time changes, their rhythms shift, too.

    Forrest’s seizure log shows this clearly:

    • During Daylight Saving Time, most of his seizures happen closer to the time we usually wake up.
    • When Daylight Saving Time ends, his seizures tend to occur earlier, between 1–3 AM.

    Understanding your dog’s patterns can be incredibly insightful. Here’s a tip: Plug your dog’s seizure dates and times into ChatGPT and ask it to look for patterns. You can also include other details like when medications were started, doses changed, or stressors occurred. The more data you include, the more helpful the insights will be.

    Be Prepared, Stay Consistent

    Shifts in medication timing may seem small to us, but they can have big impacts on seizure control. Whether you shift all at once or make gradual changes, the key is planning ahead to keep your dog’s schedule (and brain chemistry!) as stable as possible.

    How About You?

    How do you handle the time change with your dog? Do you stay with the new time to keep your epi pup on track or do you make adjustments to stay with your specific time? I’d love to hear what works best for you — share your thoughts in the comments below.

    A Little Reminder

    I’m not a veterinarian. I’m a devoted dog mom sharing what I’ve learned through my journey with Forrest and guidance from his veterinary team. Always consult your vet or neurologist before making changes to your dog’s medication schedule.

    If you found this post helpful, please share it on your social media to help spread awareness about canine epilepsy and support other pet parents caring for dogs with seizures. The more this blog grows, the more we can help other epi dogs and the humans that love them.

    Follow Forrest on Facebook for daily life updates — not everything is about seizures, but I share our experiences to help others and show that dogs with epilepsy can still live full, joyful lives. Caring for a special needs dog is a privilege, and while I wish I could take his seizures away, I wouldn’t trade him for anything in the world. 💜

  • More Meds Don’t Always = Better Seizure Control 💊

    As a seizure dog parent, it’s natural to want to do everything possible to prevent your dog from having another seizure. When you see them go through something scary, the instinct is to think: “More medicine will fix this.” Over the past year since Forrest’s seizures started, I’ve read countless stories from other epilepsy dog owners and listened to webinars with veterinary neurologists, about how more medication doesn’t necessarily lead to better seizure control—and oftentimes, it comes at a high cost.

    Medication Decisions Require Thought and Care

    Seizure medications are powerful tools and they need to be considered very carefully. It’s important to accept that some level of seizure activity will likely always exist, and to weigh the benefits of seizure control against potential side effects.

    One important thing I have learned is to avoid rush into major changes in the days immediately after a seizure—unless it’s an emergency. Give yourself time to research, track, speak to your dogs neurologist or veterinarian and reflect before adding more meds. The goal is to control the seizures, not eliminate them, though we would all love for that to happen.

    Tracking your dog’s response to medications is essential. Keep a seizure log, note behaviors before and after episodes. Every dog is different. Work closely with your dogs neurologist or vet to determine the best plan for your dog.

    Quality of Life Matters Most

    The ultimate goal of seizure medications isn’t always to stop seizures completely. For some dogs and breeds, that may happen, but for many, the aim is to give them a happy, fulfilling life between episodes.

    Ask yourself: if your dog is so heavily medicated that they’re too groggy to play, eat, or enjoy life, and if the medications are taxing their organs, is that truly the life they’d want? Is it the life you want for your dog? These are hard to answer questions that none of us wants to face but when you love an epi dog or any dog with special needs—we owe it to them and to ourselves to dig deep and answer the hard questions.

    Insurance is Essential

    One of the hardest realities of caring for a special needs dog is the financial aspect. Seizure management often comes with frequent vet visits, tests, and emergency care. This is why insurance is a must.

    I use Healthy Paws for Forrest, and I’m so grateful I do. Without it, covering costs would be much more stressful. AKC also offers insurance even for dogs with pre-existing conditions, which can be a game-changer.

    Advocate for Your Dog

    No one knows your dog like you do. Track their behavior, notice patterns, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Advocate for your dog’s quality of life just as much as their seizure control.

    Caring for a special needs dog is a privilege. It comes with challenges, yes, but also with the kind of love and connection that makes every adjustment worth it. Forrest has had his seizures, yes, but he still runs and plays frisbee, plays in his pool, enjoys his favorite treats. We’re even going back to the beach this Fall! The first trip since his seizures started.

    His seizures are tough, no doubt. His medications are serious and require him to have regular blood monitoring. All of which keep him safe. But they’re only one part of the picture. He is still his happy, silly, full of joy self and that makes my epi dog Mom heart very happy.

    Track Your Dog’s Health Easily

    One tool that has been incredibly helpful for me in managing Forrest’s seizures is the PetVitality app. It allows you to track medications, seizures, weight, elimination, vet visits, and more—all in one convenient place.

    Whether your dog has seizures or just needs a little extra health tracking, this app makes staying organized and prepared so much easier.

    Android: Use code: EPIDOGMOM for a 3 month FREE trial!

    Apple devices: Use this LINK

    💜 A Note From Forrest’s Mom:
    I share our daily life on Forrest’s Facebook page—not just his seizures, but all the little moments that make life full and happy. My hope is to raise awareness about canine epilepsy and show that dogs can still live a joyful, “normal” life despite seizures. Caring for a special needs dog is a privilege I wouldn’t trade for anything.

    💜 Help Spread the Word
    If you found this post helpful, please share it on your social media! The more people who read it, the more awareness we can raise about canine epilepsy—and the more support we can provide to those who love dogs living with seizures. Every share helps another pet parent feel prepared, informed, and less alone.

    From our lavender world of grace, we’re holding onto love, walking by faith. 💜

    Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian. The information in this blog is based on my personal experiences with Forrest and research I’ve done. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian or a veterinary neurologist regarding your dog’s health, medications, or treatment plan.

  • Would You Know What to Do If Your Dog Had a Seizure? ❤️‍🩹

    When my dog Forrest had his first seizure, I had no idea what to do. He fell out of bed in the wee morning hours while we were asleep, and I was terrified. Seizures are scary, but being prepared makes a huge difference. I want to share what I’ve learned — not just from experience but also from my vet team — so you’ll know how to help your dog if it ever happens. 💜

    I’m not a veterinarian. This is based on my journey with Forrest and advice I’ve received from his care team. Please always consult your vet for medical guidance.

    🐾 Step 1: Remain Calm

    Try not to panic. Your dog needs you to be steady so you can think clearly and be present for him.

    🐾 Step 2: Ensure Safety

    • Gently place a pillow, towel, or blanket under your dog’s head to protect his head.
    • Keep your hands away from his mouth.
    • Move him to a safe area away from stairs, furniture, or anything he could hit.
    • Remove children and pets from the room — your dog needs a quiet, calm environment during and after the seizure.

    🐾 Step 3: Monitor the Seizure

    • Time the seizure.
    • If it lasts 3 minutes, get ready to head to the nearest emergency vet.
    • Grab an ice pack, wrap it in a towel, and place it on your dog’s back. Seizures raise body temperature very quickly, and overheating can be dangerous—even fatal.
    • If the seizure lasts 5 minutes, it’s an emergency — go to the nearest emergency immediately.

    🐾 Step 4: Avoid Restraining

    Do not hold your dog down — it can cause injury.
    Instead, stay close, speak softly, and let him know you’re there.

    🐾 Step 5: Protect From Harm

    • If your dog is frothing at the mouth, you can gently wipe away foam — but don’t put your fingers near his mouth.
    • Never put anything in his mouth.

    🐾 Step 6: After the Seizure (The Postictal Period)

    Your dog will be disoriented and may feel scared or restless. Here’s how you can help:

    • Allow him to rest in a quiet area.
    • Keep him away from stairs.
    • He may need help going outside.
    • If he lost bladder or bowel control, gently clean him with lukewarm rags. Avoid baths, wipes with strong smells, or anything that might stress him further, which can trigger a second seizure.
    • Blow out candles, keep noise low, and make the day as calm as possible.
    • Offer a snack and fresh water once he’s stable.

    🐾 Step 7: Seek Veterinary Attention

    • If it’s your dog’s first seizure: Call your veterinarian or head to an emergency animal hospital right away.
    • If your dog has seizures regularly: Follow your vet’s instructions for rescue meds and after care.

    📱 Helpful tip: Record the seizure on video if you can — it helps your vet understand what happened.
    📝 Keep a seizure log with date, time, and duration. (The PetVitality app is perfect for this! Keep reading for info on how you can get three months FREE!)

    🐾 The Importance of Being Prepared

    When Forrest was diagnosed with epilepsy, I quickly learned the importance of being prepared — not just emotionally, but financially too.

    Pet Insurance

    Every dog is healthy… until they aren’t. Emergency care, seizures, cancer, surgeries — bills add up quickly. Having pet insurance means you’ll never be forced to choose between your wallet and your dog’s care.

    I use Healthy Paws for Forrest and put all bills on my Care Credit card (they offer interest-free promotions). Healthy Paws reimburses me, and I pay off the balance. It has been a lifesaver.

    👉 If you’re shopping for pet insurance, look for a plan with no lifetime cap. A $10k cap may sound like a lot, but one major surgery or cancer diagnosis can use it up fast.

    If your dog already has a pre-existing condition, don’t lose hope. AKC Pet Insurance offers coverage for pre-existing conditions after one year. That first year can still cover other medical needs, and after that, you’ll have support for the condition too.

     (Check policy disclosures for all details. I am not affiliated with AKC or Healthy Paws.)

    🐾 Helpful Tools for Pet Parents

    One tool I love is the Pet Vitality app. It lets you track vaccines, preventatives, medical notes, and yes — seizures. The seizure log is fantastic! I love having all of Forrest’s health info in the palm of my hands for easy reference. It gives me such peace of mind. The developer has given me codes to share with my readers that gives user  3 months FREE! Here are instructions for how to redeem for Apple and Android users.

    Android: Code: EPIDOGMOM

    Apple devices: Use this link:

    [https://apps.apple.com/redeem?ctx=offercodes…](https://l.facebook.com/l.php…)

    If you experience any issues using these codes, please send me a message and let me know!

    🐾 Final Thoughts

    Seizures are terrifying, but knowledge is power. Being prepared means you can help your dog safely and calmly.

    If you’d like to learn more about what life with a seizure dog is like, I share daily updates about Forrest on his Facebook page. Not everything I post is about seizures—because Forrest is so much more than his epilepsy! I share about his adventures, silly moments, and day-to-day life, too. My hope is to help other pet parents by sharing our experiences and to raise awareness about canine epilepsy.

    Forrest is proof that dogs can live a happy, full, and “normal” life with epilepsy. Yes, adjustments have to be made, but every one of them is worth it. Caring for a special needs dog is truly a privilege. I’d take his seizures away in a heartbeat if I could, but I wouldn’t trade him for anything in the world.

    If this post helps you, please share it on your social media. So many pet parents face seizures without knowing what to do — your share could give them hope and guidance.

    From our lavender world of grace, we’re holding onto love, walking by faith. 💜

  • Managing Seizures: Forrest’s Update & Tips for Epi Dog Parents 🐶

    Forrest had another seizure this past Tuesday. Only 21 days this time. Better than 14, but making it at least one full month would be even better. Every seizure free day feels like a small victory, and while it’s never easy seeing him go through a seizure, I’m thankful for the stretches of calm in between. ❤️‍🩹

    Tomorrow we’re resuming acupuncture treatments. We plan to go every other week through November, then hopefully move to once-a-month maintenance. It’s about an hour drive one way, and Forrest has terrible car anxiety, which is why I haven’t taken him since June. I’ve been weighing the stress of the trip against the benefits of acupuncture, but I want to give it a fair shot for his sake.

    To help cover the extra expenses, I’ve reopened my Etsy shop. You may not know this but I make really cute dog bandanas! Moving some inventory will provide extra income which helps support his treatments.

    I’ve started using an app called Pet Vitality, which is a fantastic tool for tracking your dog’s health. You can log weight, seizures, medications, and even store vet documents, and more—all in one place! I just started using it, but it’s already helping me stay organized and more aware of Forrest’s health trends. Check it out! I know you’re gonna love it too! It’s also great for cat parents.📱

    Helpful Tip for Other Seizure Dog Parents

    This time, I was actually able to predict Forrest’s seizure, which has only happened a few times before. He was digging at one ear and pawing at his snout, like he was trying to get something out of his nose. I recorded a video and shared it on his story, and sure enough, he had a seizure at 5:59 a.m.

    Watching for prodrome behaviors like these can help you anticipate a seizure before it happens. Every dog is different, but if you’re closely bonded with your pup and attentive to their habits, you might start noticing patterns. Forrest’s neurologist advises giving an extra dose of Keppra when these behaviors appear. I didn’t give it this time, because I doubted myself. I wish I hadn’t and from now on, I won’t. It may not have prevented the seizure entirely, but it might have reduced its severity.

    In the past 12.5 months, Forrest has had 17 seizures, and I’m learning to trust my intuition more and more. Recognizing these warning signs can make a huge difference for you and your dog. ❤️‍🩹

    I’m just so thankful that he’s still his same, happy, energetic self despite the seizures and all the meds. That’s such a blessing and one that I don’t take for granted.

    So happy he's his n

    Final Thoughts
    If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that advocating for your dog, tracking behaviors, and doing your research is key. ChatGPT is such an incredible resource.

    Please share this blog with other pet parents — so many dogs experience seizures, and spreading knowledge and support can make a world of difference.

    Follow Forrest on Facebook to keep up with his journey, photos, and more helpful tips.

    From our lavender world of grace — we’re holding onto hope and walking by faith. 💜

  • Rescue Meds vs. Cluster Buster Meds: What’s the Difference? 💊

    A big point of confusion in dealing with canine epilepsy is figuring out the difference between rescue medications (like intranasal Midazolam or rectal diazepam) and cluster buster medications (like Levetiracetam (aka Keppra) or Clorazepate). I see so much misinformation out there, so let’s break it down simply:

    • Rescue Meds are designed to stop a seizure that’s happening right now. Think of them like the emergency brake. Midazolam (given intranasally) or diazepam (rectally) are two of the most common. You keep them on hand for when your dog is actively seizing and needs help breaking free from it. The longer a dog seizes the higher their risk for developing serious complications.
    • Cluster Buster Meds are used when your dog has already had a seizure, and you want to prevent more from following. For example, if your dog has a seizure at 10 a.m. and you know they tend to cluster, your vet may recommend giving extra Keppra or clorazepate to help break that cycle.

    Knowing the difference is so important—rescue meds stop the seizure in the moment, cluster busters are about preventing a whole wave from rolling in after.

    I created a free printable for you—something you can save to your phone or print out and keep on the fridge. It’s a quick reference for when to reach for a rescue med vs. when to grab a cluster buster. You’ll find it at the end of this blog post.

    💜 Forrest Update:
    My sweet boy Forrest just had another seizure, and this time he only went 14 days between them. We’re really praying this isn’t his new pattern of seizing every two weeks. It feels discouraging right now and I’m not sleeping well because the last one caught me off guard and now I don’t know when to expect his next one—not that I ever did, but it’s easy to start to feel that way when their pattern has been one way for a bit then it shifts. Part of the never ending roller coaster that is epilepsy. But I’m thankful to have tools and medications and the ability to do all that I can to keep him as safe as possible when a seizure does happen.

    If your pup is also navigating seizures, you’re not alone! Please feel free to share this blog with others—so many dogs are experiencing seizures, and their people need support and encouragement too. ❤️‍🩹

    ✨ A note of encouragement:
    Every dog is different. What works for one may not work for another, which is why it’s so important to advocate for your dog, ask your vet questions, and do your own research. ChatGPT has been such an amazing tool for us—it helps me research meds, gather info, prepare questions for our vet and neurologist, and learn new ways to support Forrest.

    From our lavender world of grace — we’re holding onto hope and walking by faith. 💜