IW Foundation Health Library:
Seizures/Epilepsy
Irish Wolfhounds are known to be affected by seizure disorders. A long-running study at the University of Pennsylvania is attempting to identify genetic markers in IWs. Seizures can also be caused by environmental factors, medications, tick-borne diseases, brain injury, cancer, and other non-genetic causes.
Managing an epileptic IW has a steep learning curve, but there are many resources available to support an owner of an epileptic dog. Some seizures can be managed with medication, but it often needs to be adjusted as time goes on.
Further Reading
- Managing Epileptic Dogs by William Thomas, DVM, MS
- Drug Cautions and Additional Drug Information
- Seizure Information and Resources (2008)
- Seizures: What to Do (1998)
- Canine Epilepsy Network (comprehensive resource)
- Canine Epilepsy Resources
- Epilepsy in the Irish Wolfhound (2005 published study results)
Links provided here provide Irish Wolfhound-specific, sighthound, and/or general canine information relevant to Irish Wolfhounds.
Disclaimer: The Irish Wolfhound Foundation provides the information on this website for the education of its readers. No information on this website should be used for veterinary medical purposes, diagnostically, therapeutically, or otherwise. Consult a veterinarian before attempting to medically treat your dog or changing your dog's medical treatment.
Note: Links to content outside iwfoundation.org may become inactive over time.