Tips For A Successful Trip To The Vet

Dogs can be afflicted by a number of the same medical conditions as humans, whether it's diabetes or some forms of cancer, to name just a few. There are some medical conditions which present as behavioural issues, and this can be the case when a dog begins to be affected by dementia. Much like with humans, managing dementia in dogs can be approached from a variety of angles to achieve the best result. What are some of the ways in which dementia can present itself in dogs? And what are your treatment options?

Potential Warning Signs of Dementia in Dogs

There are a number of key signs that can potentially indicate dementia in your dog. These include your dog easily becoming disorientated (even in familiar surroundings), a change to the way in which they interact with humans and other animals (mood changes, or what appears to be a failure to recognise familiar people), changes to their sleeping patterns, loss of bladder and bowel control while inside and a decline in their level of physical activity (including straight out disinterest). Of course, none of these signs are conclusive, so it's important to schedule an appointment with your vet.

Practical Suggestions

Your vet might wish to rule out any other neurological or physical condition that could be causing your dog's behavioural changes. If dementia is suspected, there are some more practical suggestions that might be made.

• Keep your dog to a strict routine to give their day a clearly defined order, which could help to minimise their disorientation.

• Try not to move the placement of their possessions, such as a bed or kennel, as this can be disorientating.

• Attempt to largely follow the same route when walking your dog to reiterate a sense of familiarity.

• Your vet might also suggest some dietary changes.

Specialist Assistance

In some instances, you might be referred to a vet specialist known as a veterinary behaviourist. They approach cases with a combined focus on the medical and psychological causes of a problem and can assist in managing your dog's behavioural changes. This can involve a number of methods, which can include psychotropic drugs.

Just like when a human is affected by dementia, managing the condition in your dog requires patience and a number of different methods to achieve the desired result. And of course, the desired result is a dog that continues to be happy, healthy and comfortable.