That is another thing I looked at (EIC) and found out that GWP's are a breed it has been seen in. Yes, Flynn is exercising because we are out, but it doesnt have to be hard physical exercise for it to happen. Today, we were just doing some heelwork and stays and hadnt had a full on walk at all, but it still happened. Most of the time, he can almost burn himself out with running around, hunting etc, and he is fine.

I would have thought if it was EIC, it would happen whenever he exercised strenuously. But, from what i've read about both EIC and epilepsy, he was the right age when all this started happening (I think it's quoted it normally starts between about 3 and 5 years, Flynn was only just 3).

"Affected dogs exhibiting symptoms of collapse are usually described as being extremely fit, muscular, prime athletic specimens of their breed with an excitable temperament and lots of drive."

"The first thing noted is usually a rocking or forced gait. The rear limbs then become weak and unable to support weight. Many affected dogs will continue to run while dragging their back legs. Some of the dogs appear to be incoordinated, especially in the rear limbs, with a wide-based, long, loose stride rather than the short, stiff strides typically associated with muscle weakness. In some dogs the rear limb collapse progresses to forelimb weakness and occasionally to a total inability to move. Muscles are relatively flaccid during collapse, although when restrained in lateral recumbency some dogs exhibit increased extensor tone in the forelimbs. Manipulation and palpation of the muscles, joints, and spine during or after an episode does not seem to cause discomfort.

Some dogs appear to have a loss of balance and may fall over, particularly as they recover from complete collapse. Most collapsed dogs are totally conscious and alert, still trying to run and retrieve during an episode but as many as 25% of affected dogs have had at least one episode where the owner reports that they appear stunned or disoriented during the episode."

http://www.vdl.umn.edu/ourservices/c...2008/home.html

At least this is something that can be ruled out via the test if the vet thinks this may be a possibility.

EIC is deffo something to consider as his excitability is very hard to control and contain and his drive is very high. I did mention that to the vet as that's what I thought it was but he just kind of said that it could be, not sure if he knew too much about it TBH.

It's the rigidity and tight clenching of the abdomen and paws which doesnt seem to fit the description of EIC (these symptoms are relatively new) but seems more fitting of epilepsy. Whatever it is it seems neurological.

This bloody dog is seriously giving me a hard time at the moment!

Edited to say, having just watched the video, that isnt what happens to Flynn. After the event, I tell myself I should have filmed it but when it happens, thats the last thing on my mind!

Leanne, I do not know what to say to you - just send you massive (((hugs))) - because I am sure that until you know what causes Flynn's episodes you will worry yourself sick.

And if it is a neurological problem? You are not going to give up on your boy, are you.

I just think that maybe you should find a more understanding vet, one who listens to you and to your concerns.

More (((hugs))) xxx

hi, just a thought but what you describe is similar to a dog that we had into rescue who had L2-HGA which affects staffies, so perhaps its a similar genetic disease affecting your dog - definetly worth more investigation..

So worrying for you I think you need to ask to be referred to a specialist.

Fingers crossed for you and Flynn.

So sorry you are going through this and hope you get some answers today.

I have an epileptic collie who has only had seizures (that I am aware of) whilst doing agility, and that doesn't fit with the norm of fitting when coming out of sleep. Fortunately, he has been medicated for three years and has been fit free since then.

His brother started having 'fits' a couple of years ago and it was thought to be epilepsy but was eventually diagnosed as vestibular disease, even though he was only 7. He's fine now.

My old girl was having 'funny turns' that didn't really fit in with epilepsy and the vet asked me to film them. It was easier for me as they were happening regularly and nearly always on a walk.

Without having a scan, there are all sorts of variations on a neurological theme which might need a specialist to identify.

Hope all goes ok today.

Thinking of you.x

Thanks for the well wishes and advice everybody, I really appreciate it.

We have our vets appointment at 16:40 so will update after that.