Have some dogs predicted seizures in their owners?

So-called “seizure response dogs” provide support to people with epilepsy by helping prevent unintentional injuries during and after a seizure.

Some canine companions also seem to be able to predict when their owner is going to have a seizure. The dog will alert the person by whining, pawing, or circling. There are many anecdotes of this happening, but scientists are not sure exactly how and why some dogs seem to have this ability.

Many people suspect that the dogs respond to very subtle visual or olfactory changes that occur during the early stages of a seizure. Some research also suggests that the dogs are responding to psychological, not epileptic, seizures.

Regardless, it shows how strong the bond can be between people and pets.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

Source: www.purina.com