For humans, dementia is a devastating condition that causes memory loss and impairs thinking, behaviours and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Similarly, dogs suffering with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction show symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, inappropriate vocalisation, repetitive behaviour (such as pacing), disorientation and getting lost or staring at walls. Pups suffering with a cognitive disorder may also avoid social interactions, be unable to recognize familiar people or places ad become disinterested in food. The disorder can also happen to cats, and is known at Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.
Generally speaking, by the time a dog reaches the age of 14, the animal has a 40 per cent chance of developing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. While there is no cure, the best way to prevent an animal from developing cognitive disorders is to keep them fit, health, active and engaged.
Play games outside, teach them easy commands, take them for walks and socialise with your animal often. There are also specialised foods available for ageing animals. While there are medications available for animals showing signs of CCD, prevention is better than cure.
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Want to know how to make a first aid kit for your pups? Watch Dr harry's video below.
