Has anyone seen anything like this?
My 4 y/o dog started having these “fits” at about 6 months old. He was first diagnosed with seizures and went on a cocktail of anti convulsant mediation for years until I could get in with a vet who took my protestations seriously. He is responsive during these fits and—instead of being exhausted—will normally run off afterward. He also normally shakes first/seems disassociated.
For context, we rescued him from friends who worked on a farm near a puppy mill. They knew the breeders were going to put him down so they took him and gave him to us. At first, he just had some trouble walking, these distressing events didn’t start for several months. We have gotten him regular veterinary care since getting him, and we have tried everything the vets have suggested. 63
He has had stints on steroids and that’s when he is at his best. But other than when he is on steroids, it isn’t getting/hasn’t gotten any better.
He has these episodes about 3 times per day, normally when he is excited (when we first get home, when he is about to eat, etc.). They are short (a few minutes at the most) and don’t seem to effect him otherwise. He also has Swimmers so his gait is off. Despite all this, he is a happy boy who loves to snuggle and sniff and roam. Even when he is in the midst of an episode, he doesn’t snap or seen defensive.
treatments we’ve tried: - anticonvulsants - barbiturates - cutting out a variety of allergens - steroid ear drops - every ear wash and drop combo imaginable (drops everyday, clean 2x/week, clean everyday, drops 1x/month, etc.) - strength training his muscles - allergy pills - steroids - steroids + phenobarbital (my poor boy) - and just in case he’s faking, ignoring him while he does this for one week.
Anyway, I’ve googled his symptoms and it kind of sounds like inflammatory brain syndrome, but I brought that up to the vets and they’ve knocked it down. I’m wondering if anyone has seen anything like this or has any suggestions of what veterinary care I should seek. 63