Dogs can also get dementia. Photo: Unsplash / Marliese Streefland
Unfortunately, dementia does not only occur in humans, but also in animals, such as dogs. As many as seventy percent of dogs aged fifteen years or older show signs of the disease. But how do you recognize the symptoms in your favorite four-legged friend and how do you deal with them?
Dementia in dogs is officially called the cognitive dysfunction syndrome. It manifests itself in much the same way as in humans, yet it is difficult to recognize. Dogs’ behavior changes as they develop dementia, but a change in behavior can also be a normal part of aging. Therefore, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish the two from each other, conclude three American scientists from research.
Dogs with dementia change behavior
Dogs with dementia often get lost in their own backyards or homes or get stuck behind furniture, forgetting they can walk backwards too. It is also more difficult for them to find the entrance to a door and they are more likely to run into the sides. “They really don’t know where they are anymore,” explains Sharon Blaakmeer, veterinarian at Capelle Veterinary Clinic Metro out. “So try not to change too much in the house. They already recognize their own surroundings poorly and if suddenly a chair is in a different place, you only make it more difficult for them.”
Dogs’ interactions with humans and other pets may also change, the study found. For example, they may seek less or more attention from their owners than before or they may suddenly start to get more annoyed with the other dog in the house. They can sometimes even forget the faces of people they’ve known all their lives.
Anxiety is also a common symptom. “Then they can start whining or barking out of the blue or they stare aimlessly ahead without reacting to anything,” says Blaakmeer. For example, dogs with dementia find it difficult to be left alone, whether in a room or in the house. They can also be frightened more quickly by events that they were never afraid of before. “In a way, caring for a dog with dementia is akin to caring for a puppy. For example, the entire day and night rhythm can also change completely. Then they are awake at night and sleep all day.”
This is how you help your dog with dementia
Unfortunately, there is no solution for dogs with dementia yet. The scientists did notice how an active lifestyle can contribute to a dog’s health. From a survey, completed by thousands of dog owners, found that less active dogs were nearly seven times more likely to develop dementia than dogs that were very active. “Walking is indeed very good for a dog, young or old,” confirms Blaakmeer. An adult dog should be walked at least three times a day, including a half hour walk. “With older dogs, walking three times a day may no longer be possible, but exercise is still very important. So really look at what is still possible there.”
The research does not yet provide conclusive evidence; this requires more and more extensive research. We do know that exercise can reduce the risk of dementia in humans. So it doesn’t hurt to try it with your favorite four-legged friend, because it’s good for your own brain anyway. In addition, there are also intelligence games that can keep your dog’s brain a bit active. Pet food company Purina recommends, for example, the games treasure hunt and ball ball.
But the most important thing is to stay nice to your dog and not get angry if he does something wrong. The animal is most likely confused and frightened by everything that happens to it, so be a little (extra) nice to it.
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2023-08-30 18:46:49
#Dogs #dementia #symptoms
