Post-Ictal Guide

What to do during and after your dog’s seizure.
Stay calm — your dog needs you to be their anchor.

🔴 During the Seizure

Start timing the seizure immediately
Do NOT restrain your dog or put anything in their mouth
Move furniture and hard objects away from your dog
Dim lights and reduce noise if possible
Record the seizure on your phone if you can — this helps your vet enormously
Call your emergency vet if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes

🟡 Immediately After

Speak softly and calmly to your dog
Offer water once they are alert enough to swallow safely
Check if they feel warm — seizures can cause overheating
Watch closely for signs of another seizure (cluster seizures)
Log the seizure in Anchor while details are fresh

🟢 Recovery Phase

Let your dog rest — they may be exhausted for hours
They may pace, seem blind, or be disoriented — this is normal
Offer a small meal once they are fully alert
Monitor for 24 hours for any unusual behavior

Call Your Vet Immediately If:

Seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
Multiple seizures within 24 hours (cluster seizures)
Your dog doesn't regain consciousness between seizures
This is your dog's first-ever seizure
Seizure occurs while your dog is in water
Your dog has trouble breathing after the seizure
Seizure happens shortly after ingesting a toxin

Common Post-Ictal Behaviors

These are normal and typically resolve within minutes to hours:

Disorientation / confusion

Pacing or restlessness

Temporary blindness

Excessive thirst or hunger

Lethargy / deep sleep

Vocalization (whimpering)

Seeking comfort / clinginess

Stumbling (ataxia)

Incontinence

Unusual aggression (rare)

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always follow your veterinarian’s specific guidance for your dog’s condition.