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Something as simple or howling can be an early sign of pet dementia. So with levels on the rise, here’s what to look out for and how you can help...
There had to be a downside to so many of our pets living much longer lives. And dog dementia might just be it. But what makes this condition even harder to handle is that the early signs are tricky to recognise and respond to. Here’s what to look for and how you can help...
Incredibly, 40% of dogs aged 14 years and above will have signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) or Dog Dementia. And just as in people, the signs are slow, progressive and heartbreaking. Here’s what to look out for:
⁃ Staring at walls
⁃ Getting stuck in corners of the house
⁃ Pacing back and forth
⁃ Increased anxiety
So what can you do to help?
Just as in people, there’s no cure. Just management of the signs. I like to make life easier by providing the routine they need to feel more settled. Keep their food and water bowls in the same place. Walk at the same time. And talk to them so they feel settled and know they belong. If you’re out of the house, leave the TV or radio on so loneliness isn’t such a big factor. And exercise. As they say in the human world, what’s good for the body is good for the mind. That extra blood flow through the brain can really help!
Most importantly, love them now more than ever. Every touch, treat and time you tell them they’re a very good boy (or girl) does indeed make all the difference...
