Seizure-alerting and -response behaviors in dogs living with epileptic children.
There is little evidence for the ability of dogs to anticipate human seizures. Families of epileptic children were surveyed to investigate seizure-related behaviors in dogs. Approximately 40% of families owned a dog, about 40% of these had seizure-specific behavior, and about 40% of these (approximately 15% overall) showed anticipatory ability. Anticipation occurred early and was both sensitive and specific. Quality of life was higher in families with a dog that responded to seizures.
Kirton
Adam
A
Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Alberta Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. adam.kirton@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Wirrell
Elaine
E
Zhang
James
J
Hamiwka
Lorie
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004285:Dogs; D004827:Epilepsy; D005191:Family Characteristics; D005260:Female; D040261:Harm Reduction; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011788:Quality of Life; D012640:Seizures