Evaluation of a collar‐mounted accelerometer for detecting seizure activity in dogs

Abstract

Abstract Background The majority of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy continue to have seizures despite appropriate treatment. Objectives To assess the use of a commercially available, collar‐mounted accelerometer to detect generalized seizures in dogs. Animals Twenty two client‐owned dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Methods Six‐month prospective clinical study during which dogs wore a collar‐mounted accelerometer. Seizure documentation was based on owner observations and video recordings. The accelerometer used a predefined algorithm to detect seizures in the first study phase, and an individualized algorithm in the second study phase. Caregivers completed a quality of life (QoL) questionnaire at the initial and final study visit. Results Using the predefined algorithm, the accelerometer detected seizures with a sensitivity of 18.6% (95% CI [13.4%, 23.8%]) and mean false detection rate of 0.096/day. Values did not change significantly with use of an individualized algorithm (sensitivity 22.1%, 95% CI [15.1%, 29.0%]; false detection rate 0.054/day). Mean composite QoL score was significantly improved at study completion (50.42) compared to study initiation (39.53; P = .005), and this change was moderately correlated with a change in weekly exercise (r = 0.46, P = .05). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Generalized seizures in dogs can be detected with a collar‐mounted accelerometer, but the overall sensitivity is low.

Keywords

• activity monitor
• canine
• clinical trial
• idiopathic epilepsy