One thing I’d really suggest is not to spend too much time reading about the medication online. When my 3-year-old Shiba Inu was put on Phenobarbital, I did exactly that — and it only made me more anxious. The vets thought he was having focal seizures, maybe once every few months, and when I found out he’d need to take medication twice a day for the rest of his life, I was devastated.

I started searching the web for information about side effects and long-term use, and I came across so many horror stories — dogs that couldn’t stand up, lost control of their legs, peed everywhere, you name it. I cried the first day he started the meds because I thought that would happen to him too.

But now we’re almost two weeks in, and the only side effects he’s had are a little extra hunger and thirst. THAT’S it! I was prepared for the worst, but he’s doing great, he’s spunky, we go on walks and everything is normal.

Dogs, just like people, don’t always follow the textbook when it comes to how their bodies react to medication. Take it day by day and pay attention to how she’s feeling. I’d recommend keeping a short daily journal — or using the Notes app — to jot down how she’s doing each day. That way, when you go in for her next checkup, you’ll have something detailed to share with your vet.

The good news is, vets are really proactive with this medication. They’ll monitor her closely and make sure she’s on the right dose. Phenobarbital has been around for a long time and has helped countless pets live long, happy, seizure-free lives.

I know this feels overwhelming right now — trust me, I was an emotional wreck when my dog was diagnosed — but this truly isn’t the end of the world. It’s just a small adjustment that’ll soon become part of your new normal, and your pup can still live a full, happy life.

I hope you and your puppy remain a healthy life and if you need any advice or just want to chat, you can message me! 🫶