Dog epilepsy research is 'below par'
Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological condition found in both dogs and people.
Research on the efficacy of canine epilepsy drugs is well below the expected standard, according to a new study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).
The first ever systematic review of canine anti-epilepsy drugs (AEDs) revealed that much of the evidence for medical treatment of the condition was based on "subpar testing".
Researchers from the RVC's canine epilepsy clinic reviewed all data published in peer-reviewed journals and publications, and assessed its reliability. According to their findings, only a few of the studies were relatively unbiased and objective.
To evaluate the reliability of the data, RVC researchers explored the evidence quality, study design, study group size, subject enrolment quality and bias risk.
Dr Dave Brodbelt, senior lecturer in companion animal epidemiology, said: "This systematic review revealed that, in veterinary medicine, the quality of evidence provided by the studies for AEDs' efficacy is not yet at a recommended standard.
"Many studies revealed a potential efficacy of a drug, but then there was a lack of follow-up studies of higher quality confirming the initial positive results."
Epilepsy affects 50,000 dogs and 600,000 people in the UK, making it the most common chronic neurological condition found in both dogs and people.
Professor Holger Volk, clinical director of the RVC Small Animal Referral Hospital, said: "Canine epilepsy is a complex condition and can be very distressing for the dog and their owners, therefore it is immensely important the drug treatments we give to our pets have been properly tested in reliable studies."
In light of the findings, RVC researchers recommend veterinary scientists work together more closely to improve the quality of testing. It is also suggested that scientists forge closer relationships with major stakeholders and funders to reduce the risk of bias.
Veterinary medicine should also take its lead from human epilepsy research, using examples such as the International League Against Epilepsy, which works to advance and distribute knowledge about epilepsy, promote research and education and improve the care available to patients.
To view the RVC's systematic review, published in BMC Veterinary Research Journal, visit:
http://www.biomedcentral.com/1746-6148/10/257/abstract
The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.
