{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "headline": "Dog seizure — first aid and when to go to the emergency room?", "description": "An epileptic seizure or seizure in a dog is a frightening situation. Read the instructions: what to do during a seizure and when to rush to the veterinarian on duty.", "datePublished": "Jan 27, 2026", }

Dog seizure — first aid and when to go to the emergency room?

🚑 In case of emergency, call immediately: 010 739 9130 (Emergency service in Vantaa)

A seizure in a dog (epileptic seizure) is one of the most frightening situations for the owner. A dog can lose consciousness, stiffen, row with its legs, drool and lower urine below.

Even if the scene looks drastic, the most important thing is to stay calm so that you can help your dog.

Do this during a seizure (First Aid)

  1. Do not touch the dog's mouth: The dog does not swallow its tongue, but it can bite you involuntarily when its jaws cramp.
  2. Safeguard the environment: Move furniture or objects that the dog could hit itself on. If the dog is near the stairs, prevent falling.
  3. Take your time: Look at the clock to see how long the scene lasts. This is critical information for the veterinarian.
  4. Darken and Mute: Turn off the lights and TV, avoid loud noises. Sensory stimuli can prolong the seizure.

When to go on call immediately?

Often a single seizure passes in 1—2 minutes. Call, however Veterinary hospital Sacrum for emergency care in Vantaa immediately if:

🔴 The scene lasts more than 5 minutes

This is a life-threatening condition (status epilepticus). A dog may suffer permanent brain damage or perish from overheating if the seizure is not stopped immediately with medication.

🔴 Seizures recur

If the dog has a new seizure immediately after the previous one (serial seizure) without recovering to normal in between.

🔴 This is the first scene

Even if the seizure passes, the dog should be examined (blood tests, neurological examination) to determine the cause (eg epilepsy, poisoning, liver failure).

After the seizure

The dog is often confused, blind, or restless after a seizure (so called. post-ictal phase). This can take anywhere from minutes to hours. Let the dog rest in peace and offer water when it is able to swallow.

If you are concerned about your dog's neurological symptoms, get in touch.

📍 Veterinary Hospital Sacrum — Porttisuontie 13, 01200 Vantaa

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