Epilepsy Awareness Day (Purple Day)

_{Note: this post is back-dated. I am currently attempting to catch up on many missed memories that I failed to post over the last 2-3 years). I appreciate your patience as I attempt to bring my diary of “special moments with my dogs” up-to-date!}

March 26th is Epilepsy Awareness Day (Also known as Purple Day). This day aims to increase everyone’s knowledge of this neurological condition affecting so many people and pups worldwide.

My hope is that through continuously sharing posts about Jägermeister and Porter, I will help change the face of Canine Epilepsy with the intention of dispelling common myths and fears people have about “Epi-dogs.”

Those of you that have been following Porter’s journey know that the path traveled is not always an easy one. There have be numerous rocky roads Po has encountered, but he’s conquered them all. Jägermeister’s journey on the other hand has been much less challenging. Regardless of the course the dog’s epilepsy chooses, the incredible bond that is formed between these pups and their humans is unmatched.

Epilepsy does NOT hold a dog back from enjoying life. Jägermeister competes and excels in dock diving, holds several trick and obedience titles, runs 5k’s, and hikes. Porter loves walking, hiking, visiting dog friendly establishments, and going for rides in his bike cart… and he’s signed up for his first official Fast CAT this April!

Sharing is caring and knowledge is key… so learn more about Epilepsy, know the signs of a seizure and what to do, and spread the word that despite a diagnosis of Epilepsy, a dog can live a healthy and happy life. As the awareness about Canine Epilepsy increases, so does the number of “Epi-dogs” that will be saved!

Join the Purple Day movement:

Learn more about epilepsy.
Show your support by wearing purple.
Donate to research on epilepsy.
Know the signs of a seizure and what to do.
Epilepsy impacts the central nervous system causing seizures and other symptoms. The types of seizures vary depending on the cause and type of epilepsy. Seizures can range from mild “partial” or “focal” seizures to generalized “tonic-clonic” or “grand mal” seizures.

Although in some cases a cause may not ever be found, some known causes of epilepsy include: