What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure

Dog experiencing a seizure with owner nearby timing the episode

Quick Quiz! What is the first thing you do when your pet has a seizure? See how well you know your pet’s health:

A) Call the vet
B) Try to stop the seizure
C) Stay calm and time it

ANSWER

C) Stay calm and time it

Seizures can be a frightening experience for both pets and their owners, but it’s important to stay calm. Most seizures are brief, but if your pet experiences one, it’s always a good idea to have a vet evaluate them for any underlying conditions. Here’s what to do if it happens to your pet:

  • Don’t try to stop the seizure. Trying to hold your pet down can lead to injury—for both of you! During a seizure, pets can’t control their muscles, so trying to stop them might cause more harm than good.

  • Timing is key. Keep track of how long the seizure lasts. If it goes on for more than 5 minutes, or if your pet has multiple seizures in a row, immediately seek emergency veterinary care.

  • Call the vet after the seizure ends. While you’re timing, make a note of any unusual symptoms (e.g., drooling, body twitching) to help the vet assess your pet's condition later.

If your pet has had a seizure before or you are worried about their health, contact us at Ally Urgent Veterinary Care—early intervention can make all the difference. Our team is here for you, with two clinics serving Virginia Beach and Chesapeake/Northeastern North Carolina. Call us at 757-900-ALLY (2559).

What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure

Dog experiencing a seizure with owner nearby timing the episode

Quick Quiz! What is the first thing you do when your pet has a seizure? See how well you know your pet’s health:

A) Call the vet
B) Try to stop the seizure
C) Stay calm and time it

ANSWER

C) Stay calm and time it

Seizures can be a frightening experience for both pets and their owners, but it’s important to stay calm. Most seizures are brief, but if your pet experiences one, it’s always a good idea to have a vet evaluate them for any underlying conditions. Here’s what to do if it happens to your pet:

  • Don’t try to stop the seizure. Trying to hold your pet down can lead to injury—for both of you! During a seizure, pets can’t control their muscles, so trying to stop them might cause more harm than good.

  • Timing is key. Keep track of how long the seizure lasts. If it goes on for more than 5 minutes, or if your pet has multiple seizures in a row, immediately seek emergency veterinary care.

  • Call the vet after the seizure ends. While you’re timing, make a note of any unusual symptoms (e.g., drooling, body twitching) to help the vet assess your pet's condition later.

If your pet has had a seizure before or you are worried about their health, contact us at Ally Urgent Veterinary Care—early intervention can make all the difference. Our team is here for you, with two clinics serving Virginia Beach and Chesapeake/Northeastern North Carolina. Call us at 757-900-ALLY (2559).

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