Treatment for Senility in Dogs
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is the clinical term for senility or forgetfulness in dogs. As dogs age, they can develop lesions in the brain similar to those found in people suffering from Alzheimer's disease---a disease causing severe short-term memory loss in humans. Symptoms of CDS include confusion, changing sleep patterns, decreased activity level and inability to recognize family members and friends, according to Pet Place. The good news is treatment is available to help manage senility.
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Diet
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A diet rich in antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, spinach and even whole grains can be helpful in managing the disease. There are many brands of dog food that provide a senior diet that includes more antioxidant-rich foods. Moreover, there are plenty of natural food options designed specifically for dogs that need to be on a special diet; your vet can recommend the best choice for your dog.
Play and Activity
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It's important that dogs receive plenty of exercise as they age. Lots of play and activity, such as a stroll through the neighborhood, hike in the park or a good old-fashioned game of fetch not only are good physical activities for your dog, but provides it mental stimulation as well.
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Minimize Household Change
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Minimizing household change can help reduce anxiety and stress that a dog with senility often experiences. For example, don't reorganize the furniture in a room or change feeding times. Try to maintain a regular routine when it comes to feeding, walking, playing and sleeping.
Supplements
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Holistic veterinarians, who are trained to study the whole animal and prescribe non-conventional forms of treatment, are knowledgeable of nutritional supplements that can decrease symptoms associated with senility. For example, vitamin E and ginkgo biloba, among other supplements can protect a dog's brain cells as it ages and prevent memory loss, per The Healthy Planet website.
Medication
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Medication may be recommended to combat symptoms of senility in dogs with more severe cases. A veterinarian can prescribe medication suitable for the dog that won't interfere with other medications it might be taking. There are two medications currently on the market that treat senility---selegiline and L-deprenyl (or Anipryl, which is the brand name form of L-deprenyl). Although these drugs can't cure CDS, the drugs help minimize symptoms, which can improve the dog's quality of life, per the CDS in Dogs website.
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References
- Photo Credit old wolf image by Alexey Khromushin from Fotolia.com
Comments
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In addition to the diabetes, Cole has been exhibiting some of these symptoms.......mostly the look of confusion and uncertainty on some of our walks. Most days, he knows exactly where he wants to go but some days he stops, looks around and sniffs as if he has no idea where he is that very moment.
