Update on progress of Dr. Volk’s work looking at the benefits of using a ketogenic MCT supplement to aid in treatment of dogs with idiopathic canine epilepsy.
The project will investigate whether supplementing the diet of dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy with an MCT oil containing C10 will reduce seizure frequency and/or severity. As epilepsy has multiple impacts on QoL beyond seizure frequency, we will also investigate whether the MCT supplement alters the side effect profile of AEDs the patient is already receiving, improves any behavioural problems associated with epilepsy (e.g. anxiety), cognition and improves the stress levels of the affected dog and their owner.
We have made good progress after we have identified oils which have a good palatability. We have received full ethical approval, have recruited staff on the trial, have standardised and established all the additional cognitive, behavioural, blood and gait tests in the lab and have currently good case recruitment numbers. We will not be able to give an accurate update until we have recruited all dogs, but it does look currently that we will meet the expected timeline.
Mid-Year-1 Research Update Dr. Volk for supplement use to treat idiopathic epilepsy
