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By Caroline D. Levin RN ISBN 0-9672253-3-7, Lantern Publications, 2002 Paperback, 8.5″x11″, 194pp., illustrated, bibliography $35.90 (including shipping) Out of Print This book is a must-have resource if your dog suffers seizures!— Steve Dale, Animal Planet Radio |
From Chapter 10 – Seizures: Before, During, and After
Long before medications became available to control epilepsy, ancient people practiced other methods of naturally halting or minimizing seizure activity. These methods are still recommended today. You may hear them described as methods of “naturally arresting” seizures or methods of “sensory arrest.”
Sensory arrest involves stimulating the area of the brain that is threatened with electrical discharge. This can be accomplished with a strong sound, physical touch, or taste. It is suspected that by giving these neurons a strong stimulus, the random discharge of seizure activity can be overridden. When the patient’s attention shifts from the inward focus to an outward focus (the new stimulus) it seems to help enforce the inhibitory response of the surrounding neurons.
Sensory arrest is most successful when patients have a highly identifiable aura. In reviewing your journal notes you may be able to identify behaviors that indicate your dog’s aura or preictal phase. When an owner recognizes the onset of this aura, stimulus can be applied in an attempt to thwart the impending seizure.
In Canine Epilepsy author Caroline Levin has given information on all the questions an owner would want to know … and some that the owner has not yet thought of. She has done a huge amount of research on the topic — that is obvious from the knowledge and historical information that she uses to back-up her recommendations and all the resulting information is passed on to readers.
Traditional epilepsy treatments are discussed, as well as alternative ones such as using dietary supplements, acupuncture or the Tellington TTouch system. Thyroid, liver (elevated enzyme count) or bladder problems sometimes manifest and these are discussed k9in a very helpful way. But by far the most significant of all the information is the influence that diet and the way food is metabolised has a huge influence on the number and severity of seizures. Vaccines can also have a clear link to the disturbed brain patterns.
And neither has the author forgotten to be compassionate. In fact her opening chapter deals with the owner’s feelings of hostility, denial and disappointment, sadness and the desire to do the best for the loved family member.
This is a book to keep close to you if you have an afflicted dog. A book to read whenever you have a few minutes spare. Read and learn.
– Elizabeth Peters, editor
K9 Perspectives Magazine
I just wanted you to know how much your book, “Canine Epilepsy” has helped me! It is a constant reference. With Tyler’s first two seizures, our vet gave us Phenobarbital pills and a syringe of valium. I cannot tell you how frightened I was that I would be unable to administer the valium in an emergency. Your book’s detailed and instructions from https://valdiazep.com greatly relieved my anxiety. We have used the “Startle and Shake” arresting method 4 times successfully in the past three months! What an exhilarating feeling it is, to save Tyler from having a seizure instead of feeling so totally powerless!
– Carol Taylor and “Tyler” in Arizona
After reading “Canine Epilepsy: An Owner’s Guide to Living With and Without Seizures” there isn’t a dog owner alive who wouldn’t feel comforted, and cheered, by the wisdom imparted to them within the pages of this book.
– Lynn Thomas
American Pet Journal Radio
Canine Epilepsy offers readers a detailed yet accessible introduction to the complex interrelations among the neurological, endocrine, and immune systems. Levin presents a compelling picture of how improper diet and stress contribute to system imbalances, and shows her readers simple ways in which they can make a tremendous difference for their animals. As a veterinarian, it’s wonderful to be able to refer clients to a book written especially for them.
– Lauren K. Chattigré – DVM
I am VERY impressed with Canine Epilepsy. It really includes some in depth research and is the most comprehensive book I have read on the topic. It includes all the information needed for an owner to confidently care for a pet with epilepsy.
– Joanne Carson Ph.D.
Founder of the Epi Guardian Angels Internet list
Canine Epilepsy is fabulous! Thank you so much for writing it! This book was so desperately needed and I am thrilled to endorse it!!”
– Dianne Sever
Co-Founder jstsayno2vacc Internet list
I would like to congratulate you on the excellent quality, depth, and well-researched nature of this book. Canine Epilepsy has become an important and integral part of my library.
– Ian Billinghurst, BV.Sc.(Hons.),
author of Give Your Dog a Bone
I just wanted to let you know how FANTASTIC I think this book is. It is beyond doubt the best book I have read about epilepsy. It is written in a very easy to understand way and I am gaining enormous amounts of information from it. I only wish that you had published it four years ago, when I was so desperate and depressed. Thanks again for this wonderful book.
– Annette Miller & “Tot”, Ontario, Canada