Dementia may be something that springs to mind when you think of elderly humans but did you know dogs can suffer from it too?
Like humans, older dogs are susceptible to developing age-related illnesses like dementia. Also known as Canine Cognitive Decline or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, it progresses in much the same way as it does in humans.
Have you noticed any changes in your pet which may lead you to think that your dog could be suffering from cognitive decline? These symptoms typically start after the age of 9 (earlier in larger breed dogs) and you may want to make a visit to your veterinarian so that they can rule out any other causes before making a diagnosis.
Other illnesses which would need to first be ruled out are diabetes, Sushings Disease, Urinary Tract Infections, Kidney disorders and high blood pressure, as well as arthritis and a loss of hearing or vision.
Your veterinarian will use the acronym DISHA to look at the common symptoms of dementia in dogs.
Disorientation: This is one of the most recognizable signs of dementia in dogs. This may include getting lost in familiar surroundings or staring into space or at the floor or wall. Dogs often end up pacing around the house and can get stuck behind furniture.
Interaction changes: Your dog may become clingy or withdraw and lose interest in being social with people or their environment.
Sleep / Wake cycle disruptions: Your dog may be restless in the evenings and struggle to sleep through the night. They may end up pacing and whining or barking. This lack of sleep at night may result in your dog sleeping more in the daytime.
House soiling: Your previously house-trained dog may start to have accidents in the house.
Activity changes: You may find your dog’s activity level decreases along with changes in grooming habits and even a lack of appetite. External stimuli like other dogs, sounds or people may also no longer interest them.
Because dementia is slow to develop, it can be easy to miss, especially because it just seems to become the “norm” for that dog as it gets older. Unfortunately we don’t understand these degenerative changes in the brain very well, but we do know that the amount of nerve cells do reduce as dogs age. Free radicals and a buildup of neurotoxic deposits may also be a contributing factor.
Treatment protocols will be up to your vet, whether they feel your dog may benefit from an anti depressant, pain control or just some daily supplementation. Good quality omega 3/s are important for good cognitive function (EPA and DHA). Anti-oxidants like blueberries and cold green tea can be added to your dogs diet and gentle exercise and therapy like acupuncture may benefit them.
Try to limit moving furniture around so they don’t get lost or hurt when they wander.
Above all, be patient with them, love them and always be sure to have their quality of life in mind.