OVERVIEW
The Seizure Response Procedure establishes a consistent response for suspected seizures, seizure-like episodes, sudden abnormal movements, loss of awareness, collapse with shaking, and unexplained neurological-looking episodes before, during, or after grooming.
The SOP focuses on protecting the pet from injury, keeping staff safe, reducing activity and noise, observing the episode, notifying the manager and owner, and allowing the pet to recover in a calm environment. It also explains what staff should avoid, including placing hands near the pet's mouth, attempting to restrain the seizure, or making a medical diagnosis.
The procedure provides guidance for determining whether grooming should be discontinued, when veterinary care should be considered, and what information should be documented for future appointments.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
- How to recognize signs of a suspected seizure or seizure-like episode.
- What to do immediately when an episode occurs.
- How to remove tools and equipment from the immediate area.
- How to protect a pet from falling or striking nearby equipment.
- How to keep the environment quiet and calm.
- What staff should and should not do around the pet's mouth.
- How to observe and estimate the duration of an episode.
- How to monitor the pet after the episode ends.
- How to communicate observations and questions to the owner.
- How to document the incident accurately without making a medical diagnosis.
BUSINESS BENEFITS
This SOP supports a consistent response when a suspected seizure occurs during pet care. It helps staff follow defined safety actions, communicate promptly with managers and owners, and maintain factual documentation of what occurred. The procedure also establishes expectations for stopping grooming, considering veterinary care when appropriate, completing an Incident Report Form, and documenting future appointment requirements. By emphasizing observation rather than diagnosis, it helps keep incident records accurate and focused on what staff actually witnessed.
RECOMMENDED FOR
- Groomers
- Bathers
- Grooming Assistants
- Front Desk Staff
- Salon Owners
- Managers
- Mobile Groomers
- Veterinary Grooming Departments
- Training Staff
IMPLEMENTATION NOTES
Use this SOP whenever a pet experiences a suspected seizure or seizure-like episode before, during, or after grooming. Staff should stop grooming, protect the pet from hazards, observe the episode, notify management and the owner, and continue monitoring after the episode. Use the related Senior Pet and Pre-Existing Medical Condition Release Form when applicable and complete an Incident Report Form for the event. Management should review the situation before grooming resumes and determine appropriate next steps, including whether veterinary evaluation, emergency care, veterinary clearance, or a modified future grooming plan is needed.
