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Keeping Your Older Dog Mentally Sharp


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With improved nutrition, medical care and pet meds, dogs are living longer than ever. This is obviously all for the good, but it does present some new challenges for the owners of canine senior citizens. A dog's brain ages along with the rest of his body and needs some special attention if he is to continue to thrive through his later years.

"In addition to drugs and supplements, environmental enrichment and stimulation can go a long way towards improving or maintaining a dog's mental abilities."


Why Dog Owners Should Be Concerned

Older dogs can develop a disease called canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), which is very similar to Alzheimer's disease in people. Even dogs that do not specifically have canine cognitive dysfunction can show general signs of senility. Typical symptoms include:

  • Changes in behavior
  • Anxiety
  • Panting
  • Loss of house training
  • Restlessness and wandering
  • Getting "stuck" in corners
  • Memory loss
  • Changes in the way a dog relates with people or other pets
  • Altered sleep patterns

Canine cognitive dysfunction is thought to be caused by the increased breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain. The build-up of damaging free radicals may also play a role in CCD and the development of senility.

Veterinary and Home Care for Older Dogs

anipryl

If your dog has any of the symptoms of canine cognitive dysfunction or senility, take him to the veterinarian. A physical exam and routine laboratory testing can help rule out other diseases that may cause similar clinical signs. If your vet determines that your dog is suffering from canine cognitive dysfunction, he or she will probably prescribe a drug called Anipryl (selegiline) that often significantly improves a dog's condition over the course of several weeks to months. Many other supplements are also available that act as antioxidants and protect the brain from free radicals or otherwise may improve brain function in dogs.

In addition to drugs and supplements, environmental enrichment and stimulation can go a long way towards improving or maintaining a dog's mental abilities. Activities such as leash walking, learning new commands or tricks, playing with toys, and interactions with other dogs can all help keep older pets sharp.


The above is provided for information purposes only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any condition. This information does not cover all possible variables, conditions, reactions, or risks relating to any topic, medication, or product and should not be considered complete. Certain products or medications may have risks and you should always consult your local veterinarian concerning the treatment of your pet. Any trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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