W ith November now in our rear view, I want to say a heartfelt * Thank You * to all for reading, commenting, and sharing our #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong stories about amazing Epidogs for November's Epilepsy Awareness Month ( #NEAM ). If you haven't had the opportunity to read about these amazing dogs, you can by visiting HERE .    The journey with epilepsy has many trials and tribulations, but the loving bond between caregivers and dogs runs deep, and these amazing, resilient dogs show how living with Canine Epilepsy does not stop them from enjoying life, the same as any non-Epi-dog.  While some stories require more tissues than others, that is the nature of epilepsy; some stories are bright, while some others leave you reaching for more than one tissue. The sad reality is that not every Epi-dog's family gets a happy ending. However, there are therapies, medications, supplements, dietary and environmental changes, etc., that could help them live their best life while...

   Epi-Star, "Bohdi"     by Dorothy Wills-Raftery       I t's November, that means it is also  National Epilepsy Awareness Month (#NEAM) and here at FiveSibes, we are kicking off our official 4th Annual #LiveGibStrong #Epi-Star Features!   It's a special month here at FiveSibes. While this is the official fourth year of my series, there were, of course, "Epi-Stars" I highlighted along the way in early years, before the debut of this series. Their stories are also listed on my Special Series page HERE so you can read about all of our fabulous canine stars!   A brief recap for those new to my blog: I was inspired by my beloved Gibson, who was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy in 2009 shortly after his third birthday.   I began the #LiveGibStrong Canine Epilepsy awareness and education initiative, and also authored the multi-award winning EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Life With Canine Epile...

My Epi-dog, Gibson, all fluffy and clean after his "spa day" with a professional groomer.   T here are many things that can be a possible seizure trigger for a dog that has epilepsy (Epi-dog), including genetics, illness and injury, side effects of medications and topical flea/heartworm treatments, food ingredients, environmental toxins, pesticides, insecticides, weather, lunar cycles, and atmospheric changes, as well as fragrances, noise, stress/anxiety, and overheating. The last four are especially of concern when getting an Epi-dog professionally groomed.  Naturally, you can groom your own dog. Or, if you choose to have your Epi-dog professionally groomed, and many do successfully, there are several important things to keep in mind.   First, I'd recommend looking for a reputable mobile groomer or a groomer who does house calls. Your veterinarian may even have a groomer on staff, or be able to make a recommendation. While my Gibson did not ...