Older Dogs: Dealing with Dog Dementia

Feb 20, 2012 by admin

As our dogs age, we tend to expect them to slow down a bit. In fact, many times we’re glad to see the destructive, puppy days, pass. We finally reach the days of enjoying our calm hounds that actually enjoy lounging around with us. However, as age-related ailments start to surface, we can’t help but long for a re-surge of that puppy energy that once left us exasperated.

Aging-dogs energy levels decrease, their fur becomes coarse and grey; their personality begins to make noticeable shifts. Many dogs with dementia will manifest symptoms such as anxiety and confusion. Your pooch may be pacing the halls and whining in the evening, for example.

Naturally, you’ll want to discuss a treatment plan for your dog’s dementia with your vet. Aside from the medical insight provided by your vet, there are a few activities that you can incorporate into your dear dog’s life and daily routine.

1. Walking/ Doga

Exercise is vital for our aging pets as it helps keep their muscles moving and combats arthritis. It also increases the blood flow to a dog’s brain, which is vital if your dog’s dementia symptoms are from hypoxia (reduced blood flow to the brain). Doga, a form of doggie yoga provides a relaxing stretch for ailing muscles and this fun activity for both dog and his human is popular among older and calmer canines.

2. Talking

It may sound effortless, but just talking to your hound can help easy his tension and anxiety. You’ll be reassuring your pet of your love for him and his place in your heart and home. Aging is a scary reality with lots of changes to be experienced by Fido. When a dog knows he can count on his owner, the changes become easier to accept.

3. Pet Supplements

These are best discussed with your veterinarian and the overall diet should be considered as you make your supplement selections. Ginkgo Biloba and other herbal remedies and antioxidants can help fight free radicals and support cognitive function. Fish oil can have the effect of oiling an arthritic hound’s joints. Melatonin can assist Fido’s sleep patterns and minimize the anxious evening whining, and pacing.

4. Diet Changes

In addition to supplementation, take inventory of your dog’s diet. It may be time to give up the dry and processed food, and switch to home-cooked or canned dog food. Feeding too close to bedtime may help your hound rest easy for the night. Many elderly pets do well with smaller and more frequent meals.

5. Anxiety Wrap (aka: Swaddling)

Take an old T-Shirt, blanket, or an ace bandage; wrap Fido up nice, and tight. By wrapping him up, it will likely make him feel more secure. This trick works well on dogs of any age!

The changes that come with aging can be unsettling, sad and downright scary. As our dog’s providers; comforters and friends, we owe it to our hounds to show our love, especially during the confused moments speckled throughout the aging process. By spending more time talking and exercising with your dementia-stricken dog; giving attention to his nutritional, physical and emotional needs; you’ll be paying him back for the times he has served for you.

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Susan Wright, DMV is a practicing veterinarian with more than a decade of experience. Susan puts her heart into providing quality care to family pets. Dr. Wright is a writer and expert on dog containment systems.