A Guide to the Expected Benefits and Behavior of a Trained Seizure Dog for Your Child

As the parent of a child prone to seizures, you are undoubtedly aware of how terrifying it can be to watch your child experience an episode without being able to stop it. However, it is important to note that a dog with the title of "seizure dog" will have been trained in various ways to assist someone who is seizing or is providing indicators that a seizure is imminent. Therefore, if your child suffers from seizures, and you want to make sure that he or she is as safe as possible, it is important that you are aware of the following information about the trained behavior of the canine that could become your child's best friend and strongest ally.

These Special Dogs Will Often Be Able to Predict a Seizure Before It Happens

One of the most helpful ways that your seizure can dog can make life better for your child is a unique ability that some dogs are born with. Although there are numerous theories as to how this works, including the possibility that your child has a different scent prior to the event, the results are obvious. Shortly before your child has a seizure, a seizure dog can become aware of this and will indicate the issue to the child or a trusted adult nearby. 

Common ways for them to do so include refusing to leave the child's side until the episode starts and ends, even for trips outside and to eat or drink. In addition, non-stop barking, scratching at the floor and circling the child are also common alerts. Since up to 30 percent of kids with epilepsy cannot completely control their symptoms with medication, a seizure dog can be a wonderful addition to their treatment plan.

The Seizure Dog Will Protect Your Child During a Seizure

You are undoubtedly aware of the risk your child experiences when seizing. Whether the danger is self-injury from hitting the floor or walls repeatedly or the actions of nearby individuals who might think they can help, there are a myriad of ways that a child actively experiencing a seizure can be harmed.

Therefore, a seizure dog who can be trained to hit a pedal that sends a notification to the parents or other concerned party will be quite useful. In addition, you will find that a dog who puts itself between your seizing child and the floor allows you to sleep a bit better at night. In some instances, a seizure dog can be trained to provide anti-biting tools to prevent oral injuries. Regardless, the dog serves as a defense between your vulnerable, seizing child and the environment around them at the time of the episode.

In conclusion, many children experience seizures on a regular basis in the United States and social situations and schooling are often more challenging for these children due to the seizures' occurrence. If you are ready to get a seizure dog for your child, it is a good idea for them to be familiar with the different ways that the canine can help your child when one occurs and or will manifest soon.  


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