Diet and seizures study

Background and purpose of the study

Epilepsy is the most common brain condition in dogs, affecting up to one in 20 dogs. Many medications have unwanted side effects, creating a need for alternative options. This study will test a special diet to see if it can help reduce seizures without needing extra medication. This study is looking for dogs who are currently taking at least one anti-seizure medication and are considered stable, with seizures only occurring every one to two months.

Study visits

• After the initial study visit, your pet will enter a baseline period which will last up to six months or until they have three seizures
• An MRI of the brain, along with a spinal tap, are included in the study but are not required
• The study officially starts after the baseline period ends. Your pet will come in for another exam and you will receive either the test diet or a placebo diet
• Once the diet is started, the study lasts 12 months, with visits every six months
• If your pet is doing well, you will have the option for your pet to remain in the study for an additional six months

Requirements

• You will be sent home with a scale so you can weigh your dog monthly
• Once the study diet is started, your dog can only eat the study food (treats are okay but must be less than ten percent of their daily food intake)
• You will be required to complete multiple monthly surveys, including a monthly seizure log
• You must come to CSU for the initial, month zero, month six, and month 12 visits (along with the month 18 visit if you decide to continue)

Incentives

• All visits and diagnostics, including the optional MRI and spinal tap, are covered by the study
• The diet is provided free of charge throughout the study period
• You will receive a $300 credit towards medications or future exams at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital upon completion of the study
• You will receive a voucher for purchase of a comparable food upon completion of the study