The Phyllis Croft Foundation For Canine
Epilepsy was founded to bring support and
comfort to the owners of dogs with canine
epilepsy, to raise public awareness of the
condition and to seek knowledge. The
Foundation was named to honour Dr Croft
whose interest in canine epilepsy began
more than 60 years ago when her family's
beagle pups started to have fits. She
qualified as a Member of the Royal College
of Veterinary Surgeons in 1950 and dedicated
the rest of her veterinary career to studying
epilepsy and diseases of the brain. In
1959 she received a Fellowship for her thesis
on this subject. Her book, "The Management
of Epilepsy in Dogs" was first published
in 1984 and is the only publication on the
condition widely available to dog owners.
We are privileged to have her as our Veterinary
Advisor.
The foundation's principle concern is
for the owner. The realisation that ones
much loved companion has epilepsy can be a
devastating and isolating experience.
Dr Croft's expertise is freely available
expertise is freely available to Foundation Members
and has helped allay the fears and worries of many,
as well as further the understanding and management
of epilepsy. Equally, we know that the support,
friendship and shared experiences of
fellow Foundation Members play a significant
part in giving owners confidence and relieving stress.
An important aspect of the Foundation's
work is to gain the co-operation and
confidence of the Veterinary Profession.
Members need a veterinary surgeon who will
communicate effectively about their dog's
condition, encourage the close monitoring
of dogs on long-term medication, dispel
aged myths and keep abreast of
improvements and developments in treatment.
Together we could highlight the need
for continuity of care and contribute
to an environment of mutual trust and
understanding.
There are many causes of epilepsy but
often, even after exhaustive testing, a
cause is not found, the dog is then presumed to
have primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This
can be hereditary and the Foundation aims
to encourage breeders to take a positive
attitude to this aspect of the condition.
Breeders have an important part to play
and their co-operation is essential. If owner,
veterinarian, breeder and drug company can
be persuaded to work closely together
in a determined effort to reduce the incidence
of epilepsy we can lessen the associated
pain and suffering for the owner.
The need to promote education about epilepsy
is essential as the condition still
arouses prejudice and superstition. Friends
and family may be well meaning when
they advise an already traumatised owner
to have their dog euthanised but in most
cases this is just ignorance. Many epileptic
dogs live long and happy lives.
77 Upland Road, Billericay, Essex. CM12 OLD
