Hi, I have a 3 year old yellow Labrador named Kibo. For approximately the last 18 months Kibo has been having episodes od involuntary spasms where his whole body shakes and he seems to be having some sort of fit. He cannot stand up and his legs seem to give way. His body shakes uncontrollably, his jaw locks and he dribbles excessively. The whole episode only lasts a matter of minutes although it feels like a lot longer when it happens. I've taken him to 3 different vets and shown them videos of him having these attacks but can't get any answers to exactly what it is. None of them seem convinced it it epilepsy but have suggested he goes on medication for epilepsy to see if that helps. I don't really want him put on medication unless there is an actual diagnosis particularly when the medication itself can cause side effects. There are a number of traits and health issues I've seen in kibo from birth. He has always had chattering teeth and seems to clench his jaws together a lot (like someone licking their lips excessively). He also often has shaking in his legs as though he is standing on a nerve. I am wondering if all these things are actually connected. We bought him from a reputable breeder and she says she has never experienced any issues in any of her labradors and i am at a loss as to what to do. One thing I have noticed is that these fits seem to happen when he gets startled like hearing a noise when he is asleep, jumping up and then goes into spasms. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks Karen
Have the vets checked his spine especially his neck? Could the episodes be pain rather than a fit? Just a few thoughts that may be way off the mark. I hope you get some answers soon.
Hi Karen, welcome to the forum and so sorry to hear of your problems. Some health issues can be very difficult to diagnose, and trying different medications to eliminate various possibilities is not necessarily a bad thing. Normally I would say - get another opinion. But as you have already seen three vets, if it were my dog I would probably take their advice on this and go ahead with a trial of the medication they recommend. Best of luck and do let us know how you get on
Hello Karen, maybe your vets have covered this already. but is kibo on any flea medications like simparica or brevecto ,my lab rusty had seizures like that until it wore off.
Thanks pippa . I have taken your advice and am going ahead with the investigative tests now. Many thanks Karen
