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26 Ιαν 2024 · Canine “dementia” is becoming more common as our pet population ages; this article reviews the signs, differential diagnoses and treatment for such cases. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a common problem in elderly dogs, but it can be managed to improve the welfare of both patients and owners.
For both canine and feline patients, veterinarians should view the pet’s senior years as distinct from other life stages. The senior dog or cat requires a tailored healthcare plan including preventive, diagnos-tic, and treatment protocols that are specific to the aging animal’s physiologic needs.
Physical therapy techniques which are currently applied in hu-mans for the treatment of Alzheimer‟s disease may have a role in the treatment and/or prevention of this condition in dogs. Behavioral alterations Older canines, much like older humans, show a variety of symptoms which can be attributed to a decline in their brain function.
If you’re not sure if you’re seeing signs of dementia, then Dr. Katherine Houpt, the James Law Professor Emeritus of Behavior Medicine, suggests using the DISHAA assessment guide (in the blue box below) to help track the symptoms of declining mental capacity in your dog. Start with simple management.
Senior dogs and cats should be evaluated for signs of cognitive impairment by using the diagnostic tools available, and treatment should be initiated as early as possible.
DISHAA is a tool to help you and your veterinarian assess the mental acuity of your dog, and for your veterinarian to potentially diagnose Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Please complete this canine senior pet cognitive assessment.
If your dog’s hearing is failing but their vision is still good, teach signals instead of verbal commands. Practice simple tasks that your dog learned as a puppy such as sit and stay. Avoid changing or rearranging the furniture and eliminate clutter to create wide pathways for your dog.
