Partial Seizures In A Dog
Buffy is a 10 yr spayed female standard poodle with current presentation of suspected partial seizures associated with signs of nausea/abd discomfort. The episodes consist of her sitting stiffly in an upright position on the couch and staring blankly, not responding to owner or stimuli. Either just prior or just afterwards, she gags and vomits bile. Has been occurring ever since owner acquired her at 6 months of age, but used to be infrequently, now happens once to twice weekly. Other diverse medical history: A diagnosis of Cushing's disease made about 5-6 years ago based on extreme pu/pd and polyphagia. I'm not sure what bloodwork was done or what she was treated with, Owner reports the blood tests were inconclusive but symptoms resolved with the medication. She received meds for 3-4 years until she started refusing them. They were discontinued about 2 years ago with no return of symptoms, per the owner. She also had severe recurrent otitis externa, non-responsive to treatment, which resolved with a change of her diet to Science Diet Z/D, a denatured protein diet. However, owner supplements her diet liberally with garden vegetables. And she sometimes eats rodents. Otitis has not returned thus far. Finally, last year she contracted anaplasmosis with severe thrombocytopenia. She required prednisone for a long time, and was tapered off earlier this year. Recent bloodwork was all normal. She is a calm, playful dog, except barks aggressively at visitors. excellent appetite, normal bowels,
Thirst had been normal except last week owner noted an increase in thirst, which we will monitor. May have a mild preference for heat. Is starting to get a little stiff. Tongue tends toward pink/red. Pulses are moderate. Usually has borborygmus in my office, but not otherwise, per owner. Has responded very well to weekly acupuncture. Not having the staring episodes anymore, and only has had one episode of gagging. Would like a recommendation of herbs to help support her as well, especially with her wild medical history.
Thanks!
Pam