Flashback Photo: My full FiveSibes pack family, September 2015
I love this photo, and the memory more! It brings me right back to that moment in time as though it were yesterday. I remember coming home with burgers for my FiveSibes, and even before I stepped outside, those super sniffers knew I had food! Even with all their excitement, they always were a very polite pack and waited patiently for me to give them the chow-down OK! Chloe was the sweetest of the pack, but also the loudest when it came to food and definitely the pack chow hound! Notice she is front and center to that burger! When I took this pic, I loved it immediately because their personalities and love of food really shined through! My dear FiveSibes, together again, even if for just a moment.
So, if life throws you a burger, eat (and enjoy) it!
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Flashback Photo ~ Gibson & Hu-Mom ~ September 2015
Tomorrow is my birthday, and this one from five years ago always springs to mind. What a birthday this was! At the time, I had been on a special diet for my health and feeling quite grumpy because my acupuncturist had me on a detoxing plan, so all I pretty much ate was seeds and dirt--hence the grumpiness. My husband and daughter went back and forth on whether to get me a cake, knowing I was on the special diet. Ultimately, they decided to get one, because what's a birthday without a cake? Even if I couldn't eat it, I could still enjoy the ceremony surrounding it.
They totally surprised me with this beautiful cake complete with a portrait of my beloved heart dog, Gibson, on the icing! It was truly a work of art! The cake was so pretty, for a moment, I thought about saving the top! (Confession time: a few years earlier they had a custom cake made with five fondant Huskies on top, and while they eagerly waited to eat the creative sweets, I did not let them because, yup, I saved them! Even sprayed those delectable Huskies with clear acrylic! They are still proudly perched in my curio cabinet)!
I loved that cake. And yes, I did eat a piece! Even Gibbie liked it! (Well, more liked he enjoyed sneaking in some licks as you can see in the bottom photo!) Sigh...little did I know that this would be the last birthday he would be celebrating with me as he made his journey to north of the Rainbow Bridge that December.
It truly is so important to cherish each and every special moment as they are happening for they truly are memories in the making.
Oh, and every birthday since, I still jokingly hear about how I would not my family eat those fondant Huskies!
“Look back in life and you’ll see that some of the best memories will be the simple moments....” ~WishesMessages.com
You're Invited!
Come
join us each week and share
your Memory Lane pics from yesteryear or yesterday. Simply grab
our
badge, be sure to link to us, join the linky list below so others can
come and visit your blog, and join in our weekly
#FlashbackFriday Blog Hop.
Today's
spotlight is on beautiful Siberian Husky Epi-dog, "Shiloh!" Read more about
this beautiful young Husky and how you can apply to ThisIsHouston rescue to adopt her further
down in this post!
Welcome to #RememberMeThursday, where we shine a light on pet adoption! This year's theme - #SeeTheLight - is to have everyone "Light Up the World for Orphan Pets." The mission is that "Changing just one mind can save a life." So today--September 24, 2020--let's shine a light so bright that the whole world talks about adopting a pet!
What is #RememberMeThursday All About?
For me, an author and blogger, I create to save lives, my advocacy has been two-fold: 1) to promote the adoption of homeless Huskies in shelters and rescues; and to 2) advocate for all dogs with Canine Epilepsy.
ADOPT A HUSKY:There is such a crisis for Huskies needing forever and foster homes. The stunning beauty of the dogs, and the rise in popularity due to television shows and movies, Siberian Huskies are a much sought after breed. However, Huskies are not for everyone! And all too soon, folks who go out and get a Husky without first doing their homework, find that out that their needs are not well suited to their family lifestyle. Now, a Husky's "needs" is what us Siberian Husky lovers find charming! But...that is why becoming educated on the breed is so critical to the well-being of these beautiful, lovable, silly, mischief-making, super-smart dogs need. Here, through my FiveSibes, through my awareness campaign #BreedEducate2Relate (check out my post on "It Takes a Village to Help Huskies in Need"). I try to help to educate others on the special needs of the breed so they are well-informed prior to welcoming a Husky in their home so that Husky will become a forever member of a loving home, and not wind up back in a shelter because people did not understand the breed's needs.
CANINE EPILEPSY AWARENESS:As a hu-parent of a wooly Siberian Husky (my beloved Gibson) who was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy shortly after he turned three, I understand what it is like to live with a dog who has seizures. Gibson inspired me to become a Purple Day® for Epilepsy advocate since 2012, and to form the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrongand #Paws4Purple (in collaboration with PurpleDay Every Day/The Anita Kaufmann Foundation) campaigns to help support and educate others who find themselves on this journey with their dog. Seizures can be caused by so many triggers, it is important to have the dog checked out thoroughly by a vet and then together, develop a plan to hopefully manage the seizures, whether through medication, diet, holistic therapies, or a combination of both. And yes, dogs can--and do--live happy full lives with Canine Epilepsy, with special care and lots of love.
Now...are you ready to adopt a beautiful Siberian Husky, who just happens to have Epilepsy? Let's meet and learn about our adorable Husky of the day, "Shiloh," who is currently with ThisIsHouston rescue waiting for her forever home...
Meet Shiloh, the Husky Pup!
(Just look at that adorable face!)
Shiloh
was an owner surrender to Harris County Animal Shelter because of “cost”
reasons. She was 12 weeks old and had a history of seizures. We sent her to Gulf
Coast Veterinary Specialists straight from the shelter where she was monitored
for 24 hours. She never had a seizure so she went home into foster care.
She started having seizures the next day and was rushed to the vet, She
eventually went back to Gulf Coast for all the appropriate testings and after
$6,485.61 in vet bills, there is no explanation to her seizures. They believe
it is idiopathic. Shiloh started two anti-seizure medications, which seemed to
help until she had a cluster of seizures and a near death experience. After
being rushed back again, a third seizure medication was added, Pheno, and ***she
was recently weaned off of the other two medications and is doing so well!*** Woo!
“There have been many times where we questioned her quality of life,” notes the
folks at ThisIsHouston, “but once she transferred into the care of our
behaviorist at Sea Dog Animal Training, Shiloh became a new puppy! She’s now
potty trained, she listens well, she can walk on a leash well without biting,
she doesn’t attack non-living objects like fire hydrants anymore, and she’s
even doing better with other dogs now!”
Such wonderful news! “Now, we’re on the hunt to find her forever family! And it
must be a very special family since Shiloh is a very special dog! Her ideal
home is one with patience, 0-3 other dogs (more time and attention on her), and a home with seizure experience and
knowledge. She will be getting spayed soon so we will consider out of state
applicants!”
According to ThisIsHouston, “Her trainer describes her as really smart, and
says ‘she just needs someone that is patient. She is quiet and rests or plays
in the crate. Needs to work on other dogs and not triggering them— she’s still
learning social skills. She’s very well behaved for a puppy her age and as long
as she has someone that will be consistent, I think she can really be placed
with almost any experienced dog person.’”
If you'd like to adopt Shiloh, please fill out an Adoption Application HERE! And be sure read all about Canine Epilepsy in my post HERE!
Oh, and my beloved Gibson, my inspiration for Canine Epilepsy awareness? With closely monitored bloodwork with my vet team, medication, holistic therapies, and changes to his nutrition program, he lived with his seizures managed for the last seven years of his life, and he was the most happy big fluffy lovebug Husky there was!
Speaking
of Huskies (don't I always!), let's talk about awareness! After all, we
want all the homeless ones to be adopted into forever loving homes!
Just What Do Huskies Need?
You can check out our website for more about Huskies HERE, but for the most part...
Huskies need exercise! Zoomies is their thing! It is in the Siberian Husky's genetics to run! They were born to it, and they love it. So a Husky needs exercise, and lots of it. The saying goes, "A tired Husky is a happy Husky (and Husky parent)!
Huskies are "Houdinis" and the best escape artists I have ever seen in a dog! They can dig, climb, crawl, and figure their way out of a fence, yard, house, crate--you name it! Often times, this lead them into trouble such as becoming a lost dog. (Sidebar note: M-i-c-r-o-c-h-i-p, please!)
Huskies have a high-prey drive, especially small animals. Thinks squirrels, opossums, birds, and (sadly) even your neighbors chickens and cats. They are not mean, it is just instinct.
Huskies who are bored can become destructive. VERY destructive. Everything from the window sills to the walls and sofa become fair play to a Husky who has been cooped up all day.
Huskies are wooers, talkers, and singers. This is one of my favorite qualities, but it is not for everyone. If you want a quiet dog, keep looking.
Huskies are stubborn and think they are smarter than you. They learn fast--but, once they learn something, they are ready to move on to the next thing. Oh, and maybe they will listen to you, or, maybe not! (Once trained, they know what to do. Just don't bore them)!
Huskies are pack animals and love to be around more Huskies. If you can't have more Huskies, other dogs (please introduce first) or Humans will do! (Cats can be iffy, depending on the Husky. Some love them, others see them as "prey.")
Husky play looks and sounds ferocious--but it's play! You get used to it!
Huskies looooove to dig, and they can dig craters large enough to hide themselves in! So, if you want a nice flower bed, plant it away from their side of the yard!
Huskies have double coats and
shed. A Lot. When they blow their coats, the shedding fur can create another whole dog! Consistent grooming is a must for these lovelies. (And, did you know you can donate that fur you just had brushed off them? Yes! And the sheds help out other Huskies in need! Check out my episode of "The Sibe Vibe" on Dog Works Radio where I speak with a siberwool spinner and you can learn about what items can be made from the spun fur, and how donating your Huskies blown coat fur can help other dogs in need! Now, if you think Husky fur is a fashion accessory, and have a great vacuum and a lot of super sticky lint rollers, you'll do just fine!
Don't be surprised if you fall in the love with this amazing, beautiful, loving breed, their specific needs and all, and become a victim of the Siberian Husky "Potato Chip Theory" like me because "you just can't have one!"
Be sure to read my post "It Takes a Village to Help Huskies in Need" for more in depth info on the magnificent Siberian Husky and the help rescues need to save these beautiful dogs!
To check out beautiful Siberian Huskies up for adoption, please check out my weekly #WaitingWednesday Blog Hop, where I highlight a different Husky rescue and some of their beautiful adoptable Huskies just waiting for their forever families! Simply type #WaitingWednesday in my FiveSibes blog search bar for all the posts!
And one last note, if you are not sure if a Siberian Husky is for you, or if you are not yet ready to adopt...maybe think about becoming a foster parent! You get to know a beautiful Siberian Husky and the Husky gets out of a shelter and into a home! And who knows...you may just decide you were both made for each other! A total win-win!
To apply to be a foster hu-parent, check with your local rescue! Not sure if you have a rescue nearby? Check out our listings HERE.
So, today, #RememberMeThursday, light a candle to help the world #SeeTheLight about orphaned pets and share it on social media! (Don't forget to use the hashtags!)
To light your candle for an orphaned pet, visit HERE!
CONTEST TIME!
Enter your rescue pet’s story to win pet food and money for your
favorite shelter or rescue. Remember to nominate your favorite rescue
or shelter to win! For details and to enter, visit HERE!
We are joining in the #RememberMeThursday Blog Hop hosted by Lola, the Rescued Cat!
#Paws4Purple
is a Canine Epilepsy informational program created by Purple Day®
Ambassador and award-winning author Dorothy Wills-Raftery of FiveSibes™
#LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness & Education site and hosted by
The Anita Kaufmann Foundation, the nonprofit sponsor of Purple Day and
Purple Day Every Day for Epilepsy
📌Open Enrollment Call for Dogs with Epilepsy for Studies & Clinical Trials further down in this post.
The words
“seizures” and “Canine Epilepsy” can certainly drum up a lot of fear for
caregivers of dogs who suddenly find themselves faced with a situation where
their beloved dog appears to suddenly have a seizure, or has odd movements and
behavior that maybe they suspect is a seizure.
After the seizure passes, it
leads one to ask many questions, including, “What just happened to my dog?”, “What caused the seizure?” and the top question, "Will my dog be okay?"
The important thing to remember is to remain calm, and to not be afraid of a dog (or a human) having a seizure. In this extensive blog post, I am getting down to the raw bones of just what is Canine Epilepsy, and what can we do to help our dog if s/he has a seizure.
“Many animals lose consciousness, and are not aware of their
surroundings,” continues Dr. Muñana. “Excessive drooling, along with voiding of
urine or stools can be seen. Seizures start and stop abruptly, and typically
last a few minutes or less. A postictal period follows the seizure, during
which animals can be uncoordinated or temporarily blind, and display abnormal
behavior such as confusion, disorientation, restlessness, or aggression. The
postictal period can last minutes to hours.”
Over a decade
ago, when my beloved Gibson, a wooly Siberian Husky, had his first grand mal seizure
at age three, it really scared me. At the time, I had no idea what had happened
to him. Quite honestly, after hearing a
banging (his feet paddling in his crate) and finding him stiff and foaming from
the mouth, I feared I had lost my sweet fluffy boy. Crazed and confused, I had
no idea what had happened. Calling the ER vet (as things always seem to happen
after hours), I was in a total state of panic.
Thankfully, he came out of what
I was to learn was a seizure. I had my boy back and that was a major relief. I
seriously thought I had just witnessed a miracle. Then, a month later, he went
into cluster seizures and was rushed to the vet hospital, where, thankfully,
they were able to bring him out of it.
Diagnosed with idiopathic (no known cause) Canine
Epilepsy, our journey began. And, as many of you who have followed my blog and our
journey, know of his story and the trials and many tribulations that
accompanied us along his seven-year journey with “the seizure monster” – a/k/a
Canine Epilepsy.
In 2009, there
was not a whole lot of information available on Canine Epilepsy as there is
today. It was also commonplace recommendation at that time to euthanize a dog with epilepsy. Thank goodness that is not the case today.
Back then, I went from knowing absolutely nothing about seizures to connecting with
experts in the field and ultimately becoming an advocate and author on the subject on
behalf of Epi-dogs (epileptic dogs) everywhere because I wanted to share what
we learned along the way and to let other dog parents know they are not alone
if they suddenly discover their dog has seizures or is diagnosed with Canine
Epilepsy.
Types of Seizures
There are man
different types of seizures, some obvious and some that may leave one wondering
what was happening. According to the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation,
the following is a list of seizure types:
Automatisms: repetitive motor activity that resembles
movement under voluntary control, such as lip smacking, licking, or
chewing.
Atonic
Seizure: a sudden loss of muscle tone
lasting several seconds or more, not following a tonic or myoclonic event.
Cluster Seizures: a group of seizures within a shorter than
normal interval; clinically defined as two or more seizures within a
24-hour period.
Focal Seizure: seizures originating from only part of the
brain and therefore also only affecting part of the body.
Generalized Seizure: seizures originating from both hemispheres of
the brain.
Myoclonic Seizure: sudden, brief contractions of a muscle or
group of muscles.
Status Epilepticus:a
serious condition where seizures follow closely on one another without
a break, or where a single seizure lasts more than five minutes.
Tonic Seizure:a sustained increase in muscle tone (i.e.
stiffening) lasting up to several minutes.
Tonic-Clonic
Seizure: a seizure where the tonic
phase is followed by shorter, clonic (jerking) movement.
1. The Prodome:
may precede the seizure by hours or days. It is characterized by changes
in mood or behavior.
2. The Aura:
signals the start of a seizure. Nervousness, whining, trembling,
salivation, affection, wandering, restlessness, hiding and apprehension.
3. The Ictus, (or Actual Seizure):
A period of intense physical activity usually lasting 45 seconds to 3
minutes. The dog may lose consciousness and fall to the ground. There may
be teeth gnashing, frantic thrashing of limbs, excessive drooling,
vocalizing, paddling of feet, uncontrollable urination and defecation.
4. The Post Ictus/Ictal: After the seizure, the dog may pace endlessly, appear blind and deaf, and
eat or drink excessively.
Source: Canine Epilepsy Resources
What to Do if Your Dog
Has a Seizure:
First and utmost
– stay calm! Then call your vet to be sure the seizures are not due to injury
or illness.Here is our informational bookmark with some other To-Dos if your dog has a seizure:
FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong #Paws4Purple Bookmark
Available for
FREE is our educational and handy First Aid bookmarks for download or you can
request a supply to be mailed to you!
These are great handouts for your vet, favorite rescue, breeder,
groomer, trainer, daycare, animal control officer, police, and fire departments. (Bookmarks are FREE, but a donation to The
Anita Kaufmann Foundation to help cover the cost of printing and mailing is
always welcome).
📌To order the FREE hard copies of any of the #Paws4Purple materials, simply Email debra@akfus.org and put
#Paws4Purple Bookmarks in the Email subject line!
Cooling Down A Seizing Dog
It is imperative to cool down a dog who is having a seizure as their body temperature can rise dangerously high. According to Dr. Arnold Rugg, founder of Kingston Animal Hospital and Gibson's long-time lead vet, "Normal body temperature is 102℉ and often during a seizure it will go over 105℉ or 106℉. It is recommended to do ice packs until it drops to 103℉, then remove ice packs and keep dog in a dry blanket. If it drops too quickly the dog can go into shock. Take temperature every few minutes and if seizure persists, go to vet immediately."
Gibson with Dr. Arnold Rugg
Here is my FiveSibes vet-approved poster of my Gibson (artistic drawing by Cameo Anderson) with important tips on cooling down an Epi-dog, including where to place cool packs (don't have any cool packs on hand? A bag of frozen peas or veggies will do).
📌Click HERE for a high resolution version of poster.
To read full story behind debut of the poster, visit my FiveSibes blog post HERE.
Possible Seizure
Triggers
The
list of possible triggers or causes is staggering. And not all seizures are
Canine Epilepsy. The most important thing to do if your dog has a seizure, is call the
vet immediately! While Canine Epilepsy can be deemed “idiopathic” or no
known cause, a good tip is to try and rule out any possible causes/triggers.
Below are some of the top triggers for seizures:
Illness
Injury
Brain Tumor
Food (some
dogs have allergies to chicken and beef)
Ingested, Inhaled,
or Applied Toxins (including flea and tick repellents, scented candles,
room fresheners, perfumes, certain essential oils such as Rosemary, Fennel, Sage, Eucalyptus, Spike Lavender*, Tea Tree Oil, Hyssop, Wormwood, and Camphor)
Environmental
Toxins (pesticides, herbicides, automotive fluids, polluted water sources,
etc.)
Stress
Overheating
Weather and
Atmospheric Changes
Lunar Phases,
Solar Flares, and Eclipses
Flashing and
Strobe Lights
Fireworks
Note: *Spike Lavender is not to be confused with traditional Lavender. Traditional Lavender (NOT Spike) can have a calming, relaxing effect. As always, check with your vet before using Lavender or any essential oils. A good information site regarding essential oils and seizures can be found at Canine Epilepsy Guardian Angels site.
The Sun, The Moon, The Weather, and The Epi-Dog
Some may ask, "Does weather and lunar phases really affect my dog with Canine Epilepsy?" The short answer is, it sure can. Please visit our FiveSibes blog post HERE, where I talk more in depth on this topic.
What about eclipses? Yes, they also can trigger seizure behavior in an Epi-dog.You can read more HERE.
📌While one seizure over
the course of a year or two may not be a reason to quick sound the alarm bell, it is imperative that you have your dog go in
immediately following any type of seizure for a complete vet check.
Caring for a Dog with
Epilepsy
I am a huge
believer in natural and holistic care and had no qualms about researching
everything I could to find the “right mix” for my Gibson. My vet team was amazing
every step of our journey. Always very informative and straightforward with me,
and always opened to my many questions about new therapies I had learned about
and about trying them with Gib.
After trial-and-error, the perfect combination
for my boy was a mix of traditional, holistic, and nutritional in the form of
diet (including adding fresh meat, fish, chicken, green beans, and pumpkin—and
eliminating wheat gluten, rosemary, salt). Also the addition of supplements
(milk thistle, Omega-3, coconut oil, magnesium, and natural pain relief), along
with traditional anti-seizure medications (Phenobarbital and Potassium
Bromide), and therapies such as a cooler bed, cold laser, massage, acupuncture, and even a Reiki session.
Stress
and heat were triggers for Gib, so I also purchased a therapeutic cooler bed for
him to rest and sleep on in an effort to keep him cool, and hopefully deter any
seizure activity. And still, after a few years, even that needed to be tweaked
after a near-fatal bout of bromide poisoning due to the manufacturer changing
the formulation of the capsule without thought or notification to vets and
public.
Caring for a dog
with epilepsy is no easy task, for dog or human. I won’t sugarcoat the fact
that there is an insurmountable amount of worry; days are timed according to
specifically timed medication doses, and having a video monitor the dog in
one’s absence is a common practice. And there is the monetary cost, often times
steep—vet checkups and periodic bloodwork, ER visits, tests, medications,
supplements, therapies, and special foods. Even with the best of care and medications/therapies, there is no guarantee that your dog will not have another seizure. Unfortunately, many do, but many do not.
Senior Dogs and Seizures
The typical age for onset of Canine Epilepsy is around three to five years of age. Sometimes an older dog will start to have seizures, and usually it is not Canine Epilepsy that is the cause. I talk more in depth about dogs in their golden years starting with seizures and possible causes in my article for Caring for a Senior Dog.
"Love is the most powerful and still the most unknown energy in the world."
~Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
Even with all the trials and tribulations, fears and cheers, and sleepless nights, the bond I
shared with my Gibson was unlike any other I ever had with a dog. He was my
heart dog. The love between us was so strong. He taught me so much about a dog’s capacity for love, trust, and total
zest for life. And even if I had been shown a crystal ball and had known what
was ahead, I would still do it all over again for him.
Dr. Beth Alden & Gibson
I think for me in the beginning, the hardest part was not being a helicopter hu-mom. But, one of the amazing vets on my team, Dr. Beth Alden of Kingston Animal Hospital,, gave me the best piece of advice that I lived by. She told me, "Let him live his life." That became my mantra, and my Gibson sure proved that dogs
with Canine Epilepsy can live full, happy lives for as long as we are blessed
to have them.
"Let him live his life."
~Dr. Beth Alden, Kingston Animal Hospital
Helpful Tips:
Keep a Journal
Gibson with the RVC Pet Epilepsy Tracker - a mobile journal.
The key with Canine
Epilepsy is to always be aware and vigilant. As pet parents, we know our dog
best, so if s/he is acting “off,” make note in a journal, on your phone, or on
the Royal Veterinary College’s (RVC) free mobile Pet Epilepsy Tracker of the
time, place, what your dog was eating and doing prior to the seizure, how long
the seizure lasted, and any post-seizure afflictions, such as temporary
blindness, stumbling, etc. (Read more about this app in my FiveSibes blog post
HERE.)
RVC’s Professor
Holger Volk says of the app, "Being able to objectively monitor your pets’
seizures and having medication reminders will give some control back to owners
and improve their quality of life and most importantly the one of their pet.”
While there are
specific stages of a seizure, the “monster” can shape shift just when we think
we have it figured out. If you have your smart phone handy, videotape your
dog’s seizure. When it’s over, immediately contact your vet and share this
important info with him/her. For me, having an amazing, experienced team of
veterinarians who monitored Gibson’s care and was always open to my “could we
try” scenarios—is critical. And if you feel your vet is not on top of your
dog’s care, find one who is.
“My advice for someone with
a pet recently diagnosed with epilepsy is to work closely with your family
veterinarian to develop the optimal seizure management plan for your pet.”
~Dr. Karen Muñana, Professor of Neurology, North Carolina State
University College of Veterinary Medicine.
According to Dr.
Muñana, “Epilepsy
differs from individual to individual, so there is no ‘one size fits all’
treatment, and each animal may respond differently to a given treatment.My advice for someone with a pet recently
diagnosed with epilepsy is to work closely with your family veterinarian to
develop the optimal seizure management plan for your pet. In some instances,
your family veterinarian may recommend referral to a veterinary neurologist to
obtain the expertise of a specialist in the management of your pet’s seizures.”
Create an Epi First Aid
Kit
Just as it is
important to have a First Aid Kit ready for your family members and dog, it is equally important to have one
at the ready for your Epi-dog. Have the container be bright and obviously
marked and kept it in an area where family members can easily get at it. Visit
the FiveSibes #Paws4Purple page HEREfor a complete list of items to include in
the kit and to have on hand.
Have Reliable Go-To Epilepsy Resources
It’s also very
important that, as your Epi-dog’s advocate, to research all the information you
can on seizures and Canine Epilepsy, including the various types of
anti-seizure medications, supplements, therapies, possible seizure triggers,
and proper nutrition from reliable and vetted sources. Back when Gibson had his
first seizure, there was not much info available. Today, however, with just a
click, one can bring up a myriad of information online. The key is to be sure
you have selected reliable information.
Says Dr. Muñana,
“There are also great sources of information and support for caregivers of pets
with epilepsy, as listed on the FiveSibes #Paws4Purple webpage.” Notes Dr.
Muñana, “It is important to consult your veterinarian before making any
adjustments to your pet’s diet, dietary supplements, or medications. Work
together with your veterinary team, with the shared goal of providing you and
your pet a quality life together.”
Join a Support Group
The Canine
Epilepsy Resources Epil-K9 List is an Email list of fellow Epi-dog parents,
vets, vet techs, and other canine healthcare experts who are supportive and
happy to share their experiences and knowledge. To join, simply visit HERE for
more info on how to join and subscribe to the list.
What if I Cannot Afford Tests or Medication?
As I've stated, there are costs to be expected if your dog starts having seizures. Costs of vet visits, testing, follow-up bloodwork, medications, and supplements. These costs can be a strain to Epi-dog families who love their dog, but just cannot get the much-needed medication. Where can they turn to? The Wally Foundation for Canine Epilepsy (TWF). TWF's mission is,
"To
provide financial assistance to the owners of canine epileptics and dog
rescue groups to obtain medications and veterinary services. TWF
is dedicated to assisting owners of canine epileptics obtain
medications and medical services for their beloved pet. Our belief is
that no human should have to choose between food on the table, and
affording medication or treatments for their epileptic dog.
We also believe that no family should have to euthanize their beloved
dog due to a lack of understanding of the disease, or a lack of
resources. We will also provide support and information on canine
epilepsy, a database of specialists and treatment centers, and how and where to obtain the lowest priced medications."
"No family should have to euthanize their beloved
dog due to a lack of understanding of the disease, or a lack of
resources."
~Rick Selwood, Founder, The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy
To contact TWF, simply send them a Direct Message on their Facebook page HERE and request an application. ***Please Note: You will need to supply certain information, as well as veterinarian records on your dog.***
Can Dogs Have a Quality Life With Epilepsy?
Absolutely.
While not every single dog diagnosed with Canine Epilepsy will have a positive
reaction to medications and therapies, many do. Some need constant adjustments,
while others may still have seizures, and sadly, some will not beat the "monster." What is important to keep in mind is that the key is to mange the seizures the best
that one can. My Gibson, for example, thanks to a combination of traditional
medications, supplements, nutrition, and holistic therapies lived the last
seven years of his life seizure free. Seizure
free. Was it costly? Yes. Did it take some adjustments and trials, definitely yes. Did I worry
about him and if he’d have another seizures, definitely.
But, and only as hindsight would
have it, he did amazingly well and he had such a zest for life! As we continued
our journey and he remained seizure free year after year, Gibson became the face
of hope for dogs living happy and full lives with Canine Epilepsy, and I became
an official Canine Epilepsy ambassador in the hopes of sharing our experiences and information learned along the way with others to hopefully a) let them know they are not alone, and 2) there are some wonderful resources available that I have always been happy to share.
"Our message is that if someone has a dog with seizures, they will know help is just a keyboard click away!"
~Dorothy "FiveSibesMom" Wills-Raftery, Author, Creator of #LiveGibStrong & #Paws4Purple, and Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador
Gibson was my inspiration, my K9 hero, my heart dog. Even through seizures, torn CCLs, a lumpectomy, and bouts of ataxia from medications, he still managed to rehab and come back even stronger. When he did journey north of the Rainbow Bridge, he had been 7 years seizure free, and he passed from hemangiosarcoma, not epilepsy. Right up to the very end, his zest for life was amazing. I hope he will continue to inspire other Epi-dog families for many years to come. Our message is that if someone has a dog with seizures, they will know help is just a keyboard click away!
Living Gib Strong!
Gibson (third from left) playing with the rest of our FiveSibes!
In the 11 years since my Gibson was diagnosed, so much has been
learned about Canine Epilepsy and many clinical trials have been, and are
being, conducted. Notes Dr. Muñana, “As
a veterinary neurologist who has studied epilepsy in dogs for over 20 years, it
is exciting to witness the recent strides that have been made to better
understand the disorder and its management. Ongoing research around the world
focuses on topics such as the causes of epilepsy, including genetics; ways to
predict seizures; disorders that can be seen in association with epilepsy; dietary; and
medical and non-medical methods to treat seizures in our pets.”
Of special
importance is that “There is also growing appreciation of the similarities
between epilepsy in humans and dogs – the so-called, “One Health” focus –
uniting human and veterinary research on epilepsy,” offers Dr. Muñana. “The
overall goal of this work is to achieve optimum health outcomes for both pets
and people.”
📌For more
information on the research performed at NC State University, please visit:
go.ncsu.edu/epilepsyresearch.
“As
a veterinary neurologist who has studied epilepsy in dogs for over 20 years, it is exciting to witness
the recent strides that have been made to better understand the disorder and
its management. There is also growing appreciation of the similarities between
epilepsy in humans and dogs – the so called, “One Health” focus – uniting human
and veterinary research on epilepsy.”
~Dr. Karen Muñana, Professor of Neurology, North Carolina State
University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Call for Recruitment of Dogs
for
An Epilepsy Study &
A Clinical CBD Trial
NCSU-College of Veterinary Medicine Seeking
Households of an Epi-Dog & Non Epi-Dog
For Important Epilepsy Study!
Dr. Muñana is “very actively recruiting” for this study,
which is a new clinical trial, sponsored by the AKC-Canine Health Foundation,
to “determine whether dogs with idiopathic epilepsy have alterations in their
gut microbial population.” The study team at NCSU-CVM is “looking for
households with an epileptic dog and an unaffected dog to compare the bacterial
populations within their gastrointestinal tract. Feces will be collected from
both dogs to compare their gut microbiome. Samples will need to be sent to
NCSU-CVM (pre-paid shipping).
FOR MORE INFO or TO ENROLL YOUR DOG, contact Julie Nettifee, RVT, BS, VTS
(Neurology) at janettif@ncsu.edugo.ncsu.edu.
You can also download their flyer HERE: (if
link does not work, cut and paste into your URL search bar to view brochure).
Colorado State University Clinical Trials
Efficacy of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Epilepsy in Dogs
"Dogs with epilepsy that are receiving conventional
anticonvulsants and having at least two seizures per month. Upon
enrollment, every dog will be evaluated by a neurologist and any
medication adjustments will be made prior to starting the trial. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of a component of
the Cannabis sativa plant, cannabidiol (CBD), in treating canine
epilepsy. The CBD product is very low in the psychoactive component of
cannabis, THC, making it safe for use in dogs. Each dog will be randomly
assigned to receive either CBD or a placebo for 12 weeks and then
switch to the opposite medication for an additional 12 weeks. All costs related to the study will be covered in full, including the examinations, MRI, spinal tap, bloodwork and the CBD oil."
According to the NCSU-CVM Department of Clinical Sciences Companion Animal Epilepsy site, “Epilepsy is a multifaceted disorder. Through partnerships
with foundations, industry and other universities, our laboratory studies novel
treatment modalities, basis of disease, and improved methods to support pets
with epilepsy as well as their caregivers. Much of our work has focused on
refractory epilepsy in dogs, evaluating the reasons why dogs might have
seizures that are resistant to treatment, as well as exploring methods to
achieve better seizure control with medications and alternative forms of
therapy.”
With each of the studies NCSU-CVM does, which “typically
requires many hours of recruitment to locate the specific breeds or
characteristics needed for a particular study, they maintain a Nationwide
Database of Pets with Epilepsy “to help minimize the time and costs associated
with this process.” To add your Epi-dog to this database, please visit HERE.
Visit
the NCSU-CVM informational website! For up-to-date news on Canine Epilepsy,
research, and ongoing clinical trials, visit HERE!
EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy ~ ArcticHousePublishing.com
"This book contains a wealth of information on Canine Epilepsy--from facts about the disease to practical tips on managing the disorder." ~Dr. Karen Munaña, Professor of Neurology, North Carolina State
University College of Veterinary Medicine.
A Canine Epilepsy Educational Program Collaboration Between FiveSibes™ #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness & Purple Day Every Day/The Anita Kaufmann Foundation (global sponsor of Purple Day® for Epilepsy).
I hope this blog article serves as a helpful resource for folks who find themselves and their dogs navigating life with Canine Epilepsy and serves as a starting point from "What do I do?"
If you have any questions, please feel free to drop an Email to: FiveSibesLiveGibStrong(at)gmail(dot)com! And stay tuned as we have some exciting new changes coming in the months ahead about #LiveGibStrong & #Paws4Purple partnership!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning
photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About
Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™
Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9
Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About
Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A
True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as
well as the FiveSibes.com, an
online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy
information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the
lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in AmericanPet Magazine, Ruff
Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson
Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is a contributing writer to 4Knines, and is the writer and host of
her award-winning "The
Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show.
Dorothy
is a multi-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning
the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2019, 2017, and 2016 for her writing,
photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About
Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the
2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category
and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category.
Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson
Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American
Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy
Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally
Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong
K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with Purple Day Every
Day/The Anita Kaufmann Foundation (global sponsor for Purple Day® for Epilepsy)
for #Paws4Purple Project,
both inspired by her own epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson.
Goodbye to our Alpha Queen Harley. We will love you forever.
Thank you to Ann of Zoolatry for this beautiful graphic.
Run Free, Beloved Harley, Mother & Alpha Queen of FiveSibes Huskies
HARLEY: 3/10/05~9/13/19 We Will Love & Miss You Forever, Our Beautiful Momma Har
I'll Love You Forever, My Sweet FurAngel Gibson
GIBSON 1/6/06`12/16/15 "I'm coming home I'm coming home Tell the world I'm coming home..." ~Skylar Gray
#FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong #LiveGibStrongForever
Love you sweet CoCo
CHLOE 1/19/08 6/22/19 “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself." ~Josh Billings
#LiveGibStrong Forever
1/6/06 ~ 12/16/15 * I Will Love You For Eternity, My Sweet Boy. Thank You, Zoolatry, for this beautiful badge.
Rest Now, Sweet Chloe.
1/19/08`6/22/19 ~ Find Your Big BrMay It Be Raining Treats North of the Rainbow Bridge For You. Thank you, Zoolatry, for this beautiful memoriial.
Our Dear Chelsey ~ RIP 2007
Run free over the Rainbow Bridge, our dear Chelsey
Run Free, Sandy
Our first dog as a married couple. RIP June 15, 1994
FiveSibes Official Purple Day® Ambassador
FOR K9 EPILEPSY POSTS, CLICK GIB'S PHOTO
Rainbow Bridge FurFamily & Friends
*****
FiveSibes are Pawticipated!
Pet Photographers of America Alliance Member
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Thank you to our loyal followers!
BOOK RELEASE! Host a Stop On Your Blog!
% of Proceeds Will Benefit Save Our Siberians Siberspace Rescue Fund!
"Live Gib Strong" K-9 Epilepsy Awareness Campaign
A Great Book for Teaching Children About Canine Epilepsy
Portion of Proceeds Benefits Canine Epilepsy Resources Epil-K9 Foundation
We Are Proud to be a...
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We Were Named "BLOG OF THE WEEK" on the Las Vegas "Hot Diggity Dog Show!"
Join the Blog Book Tour! % of Proceeds Donated to Canine Epilepsy Resources. Order Your Copy Today!
K9 Eplilepsy Info & Epi-Dogs From Across the World Video
We are part of TEAM EPILEPSY
Project: Purple
My Epi-Dog Gibson, Our K-9 Epilepsy SpokesHusky, and his Journey with Canine Epilepsy
Celebrating our alpha queen, Harley, as we prepare for her journey...
Many thanks to Ann of Zoolatry for this beautiful badge.
#Pawcircle of Prayers for Gibson
Thank You, Zoolatry, for this beautiful bagde.
Thinking of Thunder
We're a featured "Pet Family Parent" in the Winter Edition!
Check out our interview with Marshal Zeringue!
We Joined Sarge's Water Mania Event!
BLOG BOOK RELEASE TOUR STOPS!
Be sure to stop by these pawsome blogs hosting our Book Tour!
THE CHRONICLE OF WOOS;
BAILEY BE GOOD!
PEGGY'S PET PLACE;
SIBERIAN NATION;
CANINE EPILEPSY RESOURCES CENTER;
GIMPY DOGS;
DON'T MESS WITH MY TUTU;
MUSHING RADIO/DOG WORKS MEDIA;
ARWEN'S PACK;
TAILS OF THE HUSKY HEROES (ALLEY'S RESCUED SIBERIAN HUSKY ANGELS;
TAILS OF THE TUNDRA SIBERIAN HUSKY RESCUE;
BITES AND TALES (A HUSKY LIFE);
RUMPYDOG
Welcome to the FiveSibes blog! At our home, we are the proud parents to five beautiful, lovable, energetic full-blooded Siberian Huskies whom we fondly refer to as "the kids!" Out of the five, four are siblings, three of them littermates! We also have an "Honorary Husky Cat" who adopted us, and most recently, she brought home another furpal, a feral kitten who has now adopted us, too! These furbabies are truly are a part of our family and we love them so! Through this blog, you will get to meet each one of them and share in a laugh or a cry at their fun-loving, crazy, wacky, and sometimes worrisome antics.
I first began the idea of creating a FiveSibes blog quite awhile ago when one of our Sibes, my wooly boy, Gibson, developed seizures shortly after his third birthday. When I began writing my journal of his medical journey, I had started posting entries on other social media as a way of connecting to others who also experienced the same with their dogs. Through this medium, I was able to connect with some pretty terrific dog-loving folks, both owners of Sibes, as well as other breeds,who I am happy to now call my friends.
My intention for this blog is to write about "a day in the life of" the FiveSibes, bringing thoughts, ideas, photos, tips, and discoveries to the forefront of discussion about the wonderful breed, as well as all things canine with others who share the same passion and love for their furbabies as we do.
We also hope to help spread the word that there are so many abandoned and homeless Sibes out there who could use a loving home. Too many times folks bring home a Husky simply for their beauty, but do not do the research to understand the breed and its needs and then turn the dog into a shelter when they can't/won't care for it anymore. Please visit the Sibe rescues listed on this site if you are considering bringing a Siberian Husky into your home. There are so many beautiful furbabies just waiting for a loving, forever home. Maybe yours could be one!
Let's make this forum a nice, comfy, polite place for everyone to visit--bring along your darling dog (or dogs), pull up a chair, have a cup of coffee, and let's talk canine!
Notice: All photos, text, and video are exclusive property of the photographer/writer/blog owner and protected by Copyright. No portion of any photo or text can be copied, duplicated, used, or distributed without written permission from the photographer/writer/blog owner.
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