Shih tzu, 6 yrs. Old. Had multiple seizures two days ago while I was at work, not sure how many but seemed to be all day. He had one on the way to vet. Lasted 3-5 min. Vet gave him valium,under skin fluids and a script for phenobarb(16.2mg) He has slept 95% of the time since. Wakes up and stumbles around for a few minutes and goes back to sleep. I gave him his first dose of phenobarb today. He can hear me but can't seem to find me. He can see his bed and water bowl but is totally out of it. Also, hasn't eaten at all. It's Sunday so vets aren't open. I will need to find a regular vet on limited funds.

The phenobarb will keep him toned down, but how many times in a 24 hour period do you have to administer. Could be the dosage is too much for such a small dog. He will find his food when he is ready but not drinking water is worrisome. I think you need a second opinion, but this an international site, so think you had better hit the computer or the yellow pages. Sorry I cant be of more help, but there are pet experts here, and we are all volunteers and not always on here at the same time, so be patient, know that is unreasonable, but all can suggest right now.

You have also got it in the wrong forum. Should be under pets, but I will try and get it placed correctly so you will get more answers.

The phenobarb does make them sleepy but typically they will adjust to it and start acting like themselves within a few days.

After a few days have passed and your dog is still sleepy and "out of it", you need to contact the prescribing vet and let them know. I do NOT recommend a second opinion since you have just started this journey. Let the vet who has helped you this far help you further by getting your dog on a dose that does not zonk him out completely but still keeps the seizures at a minimum.

Also, another thing to consider... just because your dog is on medications doesn't mean that he won't have break through seizures. It is common and you need to stay in close contact with your vet during these first few weeks/months.

Did your vet happen to discuss what can be done to determine the cause of your dog's seizures?