Did you know dogs often have their first seizure before they’re five years old1? Epilepsy is a common issue in dogs, hitting breeds like Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers12. As a pet owner, knowing about seizure treatment and costs is key. This guide will help you understand pet insurance for dogs with epilepsy, so you can make the best choices for your dog’s health.
Key Takeaways
- Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in dogs, with the average age of first seizure before 5 years old.
- Phenobarbital is the most common medication for dogs with epilepsy, with treatment costs ranging from $200 to $5,000 per year.
- Certain dog breeds, such as Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers, are more prone to idiopathic epilepsy.
- Pet insurance can help cover the costs of diagnosing and treating your dog’s seizures, as long as they are not pre-existing conditions.
- Enrolling your pet in an insurance plan early can help avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions, like seizures.
What is Canine Epilepsy?
Canine epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes dogs to have seizures. These seizures can last from seconds to minutes and happen often or rarely3. It’s estimated that up to 4% of dogs have epilepsy, with some breeds facing a 14% risk3. Dogs can start having seizures as young as 6 months, but most start between 2-3 years old3.
Symptoms and Identification
Finding out if a dog has epilepsy can be tricky. Seizures can be caused by many things like head injuries, toxins, or brain tumors4. To diagnose epilepsy, vets do physical exams, blood tests, and imaging like MRI or CT scans4.
Affected Breeds
While any dog can get epilepsy, some breeds are more likely to have it4. Breeds like Belgian Tervueren, Beagle, and German Shepherd are more at risk3. Breeders should not breed dogs with epilepsy to stop it from being passed on4.
In short, canine epilepsy is a serious condition that needs careful diagnosis and care. Knowing the symptoms, which breeds are at risk, and what causes it helps in treating dogs with this disorder.
Treatment Options for Dogs with Seizures
Medication for Canine Epilepsy
There’s no cure for idiopathic epilepsy in dogs, but meds can manage it. Phenobarbital is a common choice, but vets might also use levetiracetam, potassium bromide, or zonisamide1. The right drug and dose depend on the dog’s needs and how severe their epilepsy is.
Any dog can get idiopathic epilepsy, but some breeds are more likely, like Belgian Tervueren and Golden Retriever1. Most dogs with it have their first seizure before they’re five1. If meds don’t work, dogs might need to be hospitalized or even euthanized1.
To lower seizure risk, avoid certain meds and keep the dog’s environment calm1. With the right care, many dogs with epilepsy can live long, happy lives1.
| Seizure Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Grand Mal Seizure | The dog loses consciousness and experiences full-body convulsions2. |
| Focal Seizure | The seizure activity is localized to a specific part of the brain, resulting in changes in the dog’s behavior or movement in a specific area of the body2. |
| Psychomotor Seizure | The dog experiences altered consciousness and may exhibit strange behaviors, such as running in circles or acting confused2. |
Seizures can be caused by brain injuries, tumors, genetic disorders, kidney or liver disease, and toxins2. Some breeds, like Beagles and German Shepherds, are more likely to get idiopathic epilepsy2.
“With proper veterinary care and medication, many dogs with epilepsy can lead long and happy lives.”
Treating epilepsy in dogs can cost a lot, from $200 to $500 a year for simple care to thousands for complex cases1. Pet insurance, like MetLife’s, can help with the costs if the condition isn’t pre-existing2.
About four in every 100 dogs in the UK have epilepsy5. It usually starts between six months and six years old, with some breeds more at risk5. Seizures can last from seconds to minutes, and some cases need urgent vet care512.
Costs Associated with Treating Canine Epilepsy
The cost of treating dog seizures and expenses for canine epilepsy vary a lot. This depends on how bad the condition is, what treatments are needed, and what the dog needs6. Getting an epilepsy support dog can cost between $15,000 and $30,000. Sometimes, it can even go up to $50,0006. Also, raising, training, and placing an assistance dog can cost over $35,0006.
For many owners, managing veterinary costs for dogs with seizures can be done on a budget. Simple tests, meds, and regular check-ups can cost $200 to $500 a year. But, bigger dogs or pricier meds might make costs go up6. Sometimes, seeing a vet neurologist and doing more tests can cost thousands for the first diagnosis and treatment plan.
It’s key to know that health insurance companies usually don’t cover epilepsy service dogs6. These dogs, called Seizure Response Dogs (SRDs), are very helpful for people with epilepsy7. SRDs can do things like alert people, stop falls, and comfort the owner during and after a seizure6. Some dogs can even naturally sense when someone is having a seizure, even without training6.
Even though the cost of treating dog seizures is high, the benefits are worth it7. SRDs make life better for both the dog and the owner by providing comfort and help6. They learn to do things like get items, open doors, and help during seizures6.
In short, the expenses for canine epilepsy can vary a lot. The cost of an SRD is high at first, but the long-term benefits for the dog and owner make it worth it for those with epilepsy7.
pet insurance for dogs with seizures
Understanding the difference between curable and incurable pre-existing conditions is key when looking at pet insurance for dogs with seizures8. Conditions like epilepsy are often not covered by pet insurance. But, some insurers might cover “curable” pre-existing conditions if the pet has been symptom-free for 6-12 months8.
Conditions like epilepsy, allergies, and cancer are usually not covered by pet insurance8. These conditions need ongoing treatment, which can be very expensive over the pet’s lifetime8. So, pet owners need to carefully look into insurance options and know what’s not covered8.
| Pet Insurance Plan | Monthly Premium | Reimbursement Rate | Annual Limit | Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modular Plan Accident, Illness, with optional riders | $139 | 80%9 | $5,000 per category9 | $2509 |
Some coverages might not be available due to pre-existing conditions, chronic health issues, or genetic disorders9. Also, premiums could go up at renewal based on the pet’s age, breed, location, or claim history9.
When picking a pet insurance plan for seizure-related costs, it’s important to check the coverage, waiting periods, costs, and what’s not covered8. It’s best to enroll pets in insurance early, when they’re young and healthy, to avoid issues with conditions like epilepsy8.
By knowing the difference between curable and incurable pre-existing conditions, pet owners can choose the right pet insurance for their dogs with seizures8. Keeping up with research and the details of insurance plans can ensure your pet gets the care they need89.
Pre-Existing Condition Coverage by Insurers
Pet insurance can be tricky when it comes to pre-existing conditions10. Issues like allergies, heart disease, and epilepsy are common10. But, curable problems like broken bones and kennel cough are usually covered10.
Some dogs may have breathing problems, and cats can get serious diseases like cancer10. Pet insurance companies often check medical records to see if a condition existed before10. They usually don’t cover pre-existing conditions, but they can cover new issues10.
Companies like Embrace, Pets Best, and Lemonade might cover curable pre-existing conditions after a certain time10. But, Healthy Paws doesn’t cover any pre-existing conditions10.
It’s key to check each insurance plan’s details about pre-existing conditions10. Some insurers offer coverage for pets with severe chronic conditions10. Pet insurance can help with future accidents and expensive treatments10.
Vets might offer payment plans for costs not covered by insurance10.
11Pet insurance has grown in popularity, with 20% of dog owners now having it11. In 2020, 3.1 million pets were insured, with 83% being dogs11. The average cost for a dog’s insurance was $636 in 202311.
11Over 90% of dog owners visit the vet at least once a year11. Spending on vet care and products has gone up every year for 20 years11. The most common claims for dogs include stomach issues and skin conditions11.
Determining Insurability for Seizure Conditions
Getting pet insurance for dogs with seizure conditions depends on their medical history. Companies like Embrace and Pets Best carefully check this history. They look for any pre-existing conditions, like seizures, that might not be covered12.
After you apply, they review your pet’s medical history. If they find a pre-existing condition, they might let you cancel the policy. This is if the coverage isn’t enough for your pet’s needs12.
Medical History Reviews
The medical history review is key in getting pet insurance. Insurers look closely at your pet’s health records. They check the severity of any pre-existing conditions, like seizures1213.
Some insurers won’t cover conditions like epilepsy or cancer. But, they might cover curable conditions if your pet has been healthy for a while. This time is usually 180 to 365 days121314.
Getting pet insurance early can help a lot. It increases the chance of getting full coverage for future health issues, like seizures1314.
When to Purchase Pet Insurance
Getting pet insurance for dogs with seizures is best before any health problems start15. Most pet insurance companies don’t cover pre-existing conditions, like congenital or hereditary ones15. By getting insurance early, you can make sure your dog’s future health costs are covered, even if they get epilepsy later.
Some insurers might cover “curable” pre-existing conditions after a wait, but chronic or incurable ones are usually not covered1516. It’s key to get insurance before your dog shows any signs of seizures or other neurological issues. This way, they get the best coverage and protection.
Even if your dog has a pre-existing condition, you can sign them up for insurance15. This way, future illnesses or injuries not related to the pre-existing condition are covered.
Some companies, like AKC Pet Insurance, offer special coverage for both curable and incurable pre-existing conditions after a wait17. This is great for pet owners with dogs at risk for seizures or chronic health problems.
In short, the best time to get pet insurance for dogs with seizures is before any health issues start. This way, your dog stays protected, even if they develop a pre-existing condition like epilepsy. Being proactive ensures your dog gets the best care and coverage.
Managing Seizures in Dogs
There’s no surefire way to stop idiopathic epilepsy in dogs, but you can manage it. Avoiding certain meds, reducing stress, and keeping a routine can help. Seizures can be caused by many things, like tumors or toxins, so it’s key to work with your vet.
Prevention Tips
Here are some tips to manage and prevent seizures in dogs:
- Make sure your dog has a safe, comfy place to reduce stress and seizure triggers18.
- Keep a regular daily schedule for feeding, exercise, and rest to help your dog’s brain18.
- Keep your dog away from harmful substances that could cause seizures19.
- Collaborate with your vet to monitor and adjust your dog’s meds to prevent seizures18.
- Try a special diet or supplements to help manage seizures, if your vet suggests it18.
By focusing on your dog’s health and working with your vet, you can manage seizures and enhance your dog’s life19.
“Preventing seizures in dogs requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the underlying causes and the environmental factors that can contribute to seizure episodes.”
| Seizure Characteristics | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Grand Mal Seizures | Up to 2 minutes19 |
| Focal Seizures | Localized to specific brain regions19 |
Living with a Dog with Epilepsy
Caring for a dog with epilepsy is rewarding but challenging. Epilepsy is more common in dogs than cats. Most seizures last between 5 and 60 seconds, but some can last longer20. Idiopathic epilepsy, the most common type, affects young to middle-aged dogs, mostly males20. Without treatment, seizures can worsen and happen more often20.
With the right care and love, many dogs with epilepsy can thrive. Medications can manage seizures in some dogs, helping them live long, happy lives20. Treatment for epilepsy in dogs is lifelong, with regular health checks and blood tests to adjust medication and prevent side effects20.
As a pet owner, talking openly with your vet and keeping up with regular checkups is vital. By showing love and creating a safe space, you can help your dog live well despite epilepsy. Caring for a dog with seizure disorders requires patience, dedication, and understanding their unique needs.
“With the right support and care, dogs with epilepsy can live full, enriching lives.” – Dr. Sarah Wilkinson, Veterinary Neurologist
Idiopathic epilepsy is common in breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Beagles20. Medical treatment can reduce seizure frequency in some dogs, with success in 15-30%20. Common side effects of treatment include tiredness, increased appetite and thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea20.
Living with a dog with epilepsy has its challenges, but with the right care, they can thrive. By focusing on their well-being and creating a safe, loving space, owners can help their dogs enjoy a good quality of life despite the condition.
Understanding Bilateral Condition Exclusions
Pet insurance often has rules about covering both sides of a pet’s body. Conditions like cataracts, hip dysplasia, or luxating patella can affect both sides21. These conditions are often passed down through generations and might show up on the other side over time21.
Many insurance plans have rules against covering both sides of a condition. If your pet had a problem on one side before you got insurance, the other side might not be covered22. This is because insurance companies think there’s a good chance the same problem will show up on the other side21.
But, if a bilateral condition shows up after you start your insurance, it’s usually covered22. This is because it’s a new problem, not something that was there before22.
Knowing about these exclusions is key when picking a pet insurance plan23. It’s important to read the policy carefully and talk to the insurance company. This way, you can make sure your pet gets the care they need23.
By understanding these exclusions, you can choose the best insurance for your pet. This is important, even if your pet is more likely to get certain conditions because of their family history23.
| Coverage for Bilateral Conditions | Pre-Existing vs. New Conditions |
|---|---|
|
|
“Bilateral conditions can present unique coverage challenges for pet owners, as insurance providers aim to manage the increased risk. Understanding these exclusions is essential when choosing the right pet insurance plan.”
Knowing about the exclusions for bilateral conditions helps you choose the best insurance for your pet23.
Choosing the Right Pet Insurance Plan
When picking a pet insurance plan for your dog, it’s key to look at the coverage details. This includes how the insurer handles curable and incurable pre-existing conditions15. Some providers might be more open to covering certain pre-existing conditions15. Look at coverage limits, how much they’ll pay back, and any waiting periods to find the best plan for your dog15.
Finding the best pet insurance for dogs with epilepsy can be tough. But it’s vital to make sure your dog gets the coverage they need15. Even though no plan covers pre-existing conditions, some might cover curable ones after a symptom-free period16.
For example, Embrace needs a 12-month symptom-free period for curable pre-existing conditions16. Nationwide and Pets Best might be more flexible, covering curable conditions without a specific time frame16. AKC pet insurance covers both curable and incurable conditions after 365 days of coverage16.
By comparing pet insurance options, you can find a plan that meets your dog’s needs15. Even if pre-existing conditions aren’t covered, the right plan can help with the costs of treating your dog’s seizures or other health issues15.
| Pet Insurance Provider | Pre-Existing Condition Coverage |
|---|---|
| Embrace | Curable pre-existing conditions covered after 12-month symptom-free period |
| Nationwide | Curable pre-existing conditions covered after 6-month symptom-free period |
| Pets Best | Curable pre-existing conditions covered with no specified symptom-free period |
| AKC | Both curable and incurable pre-existing conditions covered after 365 days of coverage |
| Figo | Curable pre-existing conditions covered after 12-month symptom-free period |
| Spot | Curable pre-existing conditions covered after 180-day symptom-free period, with exceptions |
| MetLife | Curable pre-existing conditions covered if they recur during the policy term, no specific timeframe |
| Trupanion | Certain curable pre-existing conditions covered after a symptom-free period, no specified duration |
By looking at the coverage options and pre-existing condition policies of different providers, you can choose the best plan for your dog15. This way, your furry friend gets the care they need without breaking the bank1516.
Conclusion
Caring for a dog with seizures is tough, but it’s doable with the right insurance and care. Many dogs with epilepsy can live long, happy lives24. Knowing about insurance, costs, and treatments for epilepsy helps pet owners make smart choices24.
Putting your dog’s health first and working with your vet is key. This way, your pet can do well, even with seizures.
Choosing pet insurance for dogs with seizures means looking at several things. You need to check if it covers epilepsy costs, waiting periods, and exclusions24. Also, consider the premium, deductibles, co-pays, and the insurance company’s reputation24.
Some insurance plans might not cover pre-existing conditions like epilepsy24. But, there are other options or services that can help with vet bills, even for pre-existing conditions24.
Dealing with a dog’s seizures needs a full plan that fits your budget25. Being informed and proactive, and working with your vet, helps a lot24. With the right support, dogs with seizures can live happy, fulfilling lives.
FAQ
What is canine epilepsy?
What are the symptoms of canine epilepsy?
Which dog breeds are more prone to epilepsy?
How is canine epilepsy treated?
How much does it cost to treat canine epilepsy?
Do pet insurance companies cover pre-existing conditions like epilepsy?
How do pet insurance companies determine if a condition is pre-existing?
When is the best time to purchase pet insurance for a dog with seizures?
Can seizures in dogs be prevented?
How can a dog with epilepsy live a good quality of life?
What are bilateral condition exclusions in pet insurance?
What should I look for when choosing a pet insurance plan for a dog with seizures?
Source Links
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- Dog Seizures: Symptoms & Treatment | MetLife Pet Insurance – https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-health/dog-seizures/
- No title found – https://www.petinsurancequotes.com/dog-health/epilepsy/
- Epilepsy in Dogs | Healthy Paws Pet Insurance – https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/blog/epilepsy-in-dogs
- Epilepsy in dogs – https://www.purelypetsinsurance.co.uk/blogs/epilepsy-in-dogs/
- Epilepsy service dog: Training, rights, cost, and how to get one – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/epilepsy-service-dog
- Frontiers | Evaluating the Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Seizure Dogs in Persons With Medically Refractory Epilepsy in the Netherlands: Study Protocol for a Stepped Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial (EPISODE) – https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2020.00003/full
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Epilepsy? – https://iheartdogs.com/does-pet-insurance-cover-epilepsy/
- America’s #1 Full Coverage Dog Insurance | Find Your Plan – https://www.petinsurance.com/dog-insurance/
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? – https://www.progressive.com/answers/pet-insurance-pre-existing-conditions/
- No title found – https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/pre-existing-condition-world-pet-insurance/
- Pet Insurance That Covers Pre-Existing Conditions – https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-pre-existing-conditions/
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? – https://www.petmd.com/general-health/does-pet-insurance-cover-pre-existing-conditions
- Best Pet Insurance for Preexisting Conditions – https://www.thisoldhouse.com/home-finances/reviews/pet-insurance-preexisting-conditions
- Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions – https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/pre-existing-conditions/
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? – NerdWallet – https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/pet-insurance-pre-existing-conditions
- Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage for Pets | AKC Pet Insurance – https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/plans/pre-existing-conditions
- Dog Seizures – https://www.prudentpet.com/dog-seizures/
- Epilepsy in Dogs: What Causes Dogs To Have Seizures? | ASPCA Pet Health Insurance – https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/epilepsy-in-dogs/
- Epilepsy in dogs and cats – https://bowwowinsurance.com.au/pet-care/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/
- Pet Health Conditions – Lemonade Pet – https://www.lemonade.com/pet/explained/pet-health-conditions/
- Pet Insurance & Pre-Existing Conditions | MetLife Pet Insurance – https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/pre-existing-conditions/
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-existing Conditions | Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/pet-insurance/does-pet-insurance-cover-pre-existing-conditions/
- Seizure Disorders In Pets: Understanding What Pet Insurance Covers – https://petnotifications.com/does-pet-insurance-cover-seizures/
- Is Pet Health Insurance Able to Improve Veterinary Care? Why Pet Health Insurance for Dogs and Cats Has Limits: An Ethical Consideration on Pet Health Insurance – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264770/