Management of status epilepticus in dogs

Abstract

Background: Status epilepticus (SE) is a common neurological emergency with high mortality, and is often the first manifestation of a seizure disorder. When faced with a patient in SE (or severe cluster seizures) our priority should always be to stop the seizure activity; however, this should not distract us from assessing our seizuring patient as a whole. Neglecting to do so could lead to severe complications and could dramatically affect the patient's short‐term outcome. Management of dogs in SE requires a swift, coordinated response from all members of the veterinary team to improve chances of survival.Aim of the article: This article aims to provide a step‐by‐step guide for the management of dogs in SE with a focus on strategies to best monitor, stabilise and treat this neurological emergency.