The Animal Clinic

As our beloved furry companions age, it's not uncommon for them to experience canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCD), also known as dog dementia. While there is no cure, there are various ways to help manage the symptoms and improve their quality of life. When it comes to treating CCD, a thorough examination by a veterinarian is the first step. They will gather information about your dog's health history and conduct physical exams, blood tests, and imaging tests to rule out any other underlying conditions. Once a diagnosis is made, there are several options for managing CCD in dogs. A strict routine of exercise, play, and mental stimulation can help slow down the progression of the disease. A safe and accessible home environment can also make a big difference. Medications, dietary supplements, and prescription diets can also be prescribed to help improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Anti-anxiety medications may also be recommended. It's important to have an open conversation with a veterinarian about all the treatment options available for your dog. Every dog is different and the right course of action will depend on their specific symptoms and needs. Let's work together to give our senior dogs the best possible quality of life, even with CCD. ❤️ #dogdementiaawareness #doghealth #caringfordogs

Our furry friends are always there for us, and when they show signs of distress, it's important to take action. If you suspect your dog may be experiencing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), the first step is to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. During your appointment, your veterinarian will ask for a thorough history of your dog's health, including symptoms and any incidents that may have precipitated any changes in behavior. Your vet will then perform a complete physical examination and conduct routine blood tests, thyroid testing, and imaging studies like X-rays and ultrasounds to rule out other conditions. Advanced imaging like MRI or CT scans may also be recommended. Let's work together to ensure our furry friends receive the care they need and live happy, comfortable lives. ❤️ #CanineCognitiveDysfunction #SeniorPets #PetCare

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), also known as "doggy dementia," affects our beloved pets in much the same way as Alzheimer's affects us. While the exact causes are still unknown, scientists are making strides in understanding this condition. Research has shown that brain atrophies, abnormal protein buildup, and degraded neurotransmitters can all play a role in CCD. Additionally, dogs with epilepsy and a sedentary lifestyle may be at a higher risk for developing this condition. We may not have all the answers yet, but it's important to remember that our dogs' well-being is always at the forefront of our minds. Let's stand together to support our furry friends and continue to raise awareness about CCD. ❤️ #CanineCognitiveDysfunction #SeniorPets #PetCare

As our furry friends age, their minds and bodies can go through changes that can be just as difficult as they are for us humans. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCD), also known as dog dementia, affects nearly one in three dogs over the age of 11. Just like dementia or Alzheimer's in humans, our beloved dogs experience a slow decline in their ability to perform normal tasks. It's important to recognize the signs of dementia in dogs. Common symptoms include disorientation and confusion, changes in behavior such as irritability and decreased desire to play, anxiety and restless behavior, and changes in sleep cycle. If you notice any of these signs in your furry friend, it's important to seek veterinary care. Let's work together to ensure our dogs live happy, comfortable lives, even in their golden years. ❤️ #DementiaInDogs #SeniorPets #PetCare"

Is your pet the ultimate foodie? Share their favorite treats and meals in the comments!

Looking for a new way to keep your indoor kitties entertained? Try setting up a cat tree or scratching post for them to climb and play on. Bonus points if you include some dangling toys or a cozy perch for them to relax on. Happy climbing!

Calling all dog lovers! 🐶 How do you and your pup spend your weekends? Share your favorite activities in the comments below. 🎉

Are your cats feeling a little stir crazy? It's time to bring on the indoor cat enrichment! Set up a scavenger hunt with treats and toys hidden around the house, or create a DIY cardboard box maze for them to explore. Trust us, your furbabies will thank you. 🐱😻

Petting, scratching, and cuddling your pet could be as soothing to the mind and heart as deep as mediation! Today is #nationalcuddleupday ! Share your cuddly photos with us! 🥰

Have you ever noticed your pup's nose turn from its usual dark color to more of a pink or brown color? Guess what that's called!? Snow nose! aka Winter Nose ❄️ Snow nose most commonly affects Siberian Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. This condition is completely cosmetic! However, if your dog's nose gets smoother and smoother or raw with sores, you should definitely make a veterinary appointment.

You already know that overweight pets are more likely to live shorter lives. 😩 But did you know that there are other health issues that extra weight can lead to like cancer, joint injury, UTIs, heart disease, and back problems? It's tough to help our pets keep up a healthy weight, we know. 👇Here are some simple and actionable steps you can take to help your pet stay healthy👇 1. Measure our portions 2. Choose a proper diet for your pet's life stage 3. Show love without treats 4. Exercise 5. Visit the vet if your pet falls into the overweight class to check for signs of hypothyroidism, diabetes, or arthritis

The holidays are creeping up and you might be considering taking your pet with you on a trip! Before you go, ask yourself these 5 questions! 1. Is my pet welcome? 2. Is my pet medically cleared for the trip? 5. Is the route I'm taking the most pet-friendly? 4. Are there any travel rules or restrictions to consider? 5. What does my pet need for the duration of the trip? If your pet is good-to-go, we wish you safe travels and happy holidays! 🥰

Gastroenteritis may seem like a simple case of vomiting and diarrhea, but medical treatment is warranted to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances and to determine the underlying cause. If your pet is suffering from gastroenteritis, make a veterinary appointment and have the answers to these questions on hand during your appointment: ➡️ Has your pet had any new foods or treats recently? ➡️ When was the last time your pet ate and drank normally? ➡️ What is your pet currently eating, and how much? ➡️ Has your pet been exposed to any new people, pets, animals, or places recently? ➡️ Could your pet have ingested any cleaning products, pesticides, or other chemicals? ➡️ Has your pet had other vomiting and diarrhea episodes? ➡️ What medications or supplements does your pet take?

Dogs can get the flu! Just like me and just like you! 😰 There are two identified strains of the canine influenza virus (CIV) -- H3N8 and H3N2. Both strains are spread mostly through close contact, respiratory secretions, contaminated objects, and people carrying viral pathogens that can transmit to dogs. Canine influenza viral strains are highly contagious among dogs. CIV is mild in most cases but, as with people, some can develop into a more severe illness. Dogs with mild CIV will generally develop a mild cough that sounds similar to kennel cough. Dogs with CIV may also display the following signs: ➡️ Eye discharge ➡️ Sneezing ➡️ Nasal discharge ➡️ Fever ➡️ Lethargy ➡️ Inappetence In severe cases, dogs can develop a high fever, pneumonia, and a bacterial infection secondary to the viral infection. About 20% of dogs who contract CIV remain asymptomatic but can still pass it along to other dogs. If an outbreak occurs in your area, be sure to: ➡️ Vaccinate your dog for both CIV strains if you travel with, board, or visit dogs parks often ➡️ Keep your dog away from other dogs who exhibit signs of illness ➡️ If you've been interacting with a sick dog, be sure to wash your hands and change your clothes before engaging with your own dog.

Whether you're planning on adopting an older pet or you already have an elderly cat or dog, your senior pet deserves to be pampered and spoiled! 💓 Here are 6⃣ ways you can shower your senior pet with love 💓 1. ✅ Upgrade their bed: If your pet has had the same bed for months or even years, it's likely that the padding has compressed which provides little to no support on your pet's achy joints. Treat your pet to a firm, orthopedic bed that gives your pet plenty of cushion and support. 2. ✅ Encourage physical activity: Your pet is now at "retirement" age, so rest and relaxation are entirely natural! However, too little activity can cause senior pets to develop heart issues. Without regular, low-impact exercise, their muscles atrophy which, in turn, makes daily activities more difficult. 3. ✅ Mental enrichment: Your pet's brain is a muscle! Keep their mind sharp with enrichment activities like food puzzles, nose work training, or other daily training sessions. 4. ✅ Diet: As your pet ages, their nutritional needs change as well. Oftentimes, they require fewer calories. However, please remember that each pet will have individualized needs specific to their health. Speak to your veterinarian to determine the best dietary needs for your pet. 5. ✅ Home navigation: As your pet ages, going up and down stairs can be more challenging. Your senior pet may also struggle with tall furniture, slick floors, low food & water dishes, or litter boxes with tall sides. You can remedy these issues by placing runners on slick floors, raising your pet's food/water dishes, placing your pet's necessities all in one area, investing in a litter box with shorter sides, or installing ramps for easier access in and out o your home or favorite piece of furniture. 6. ✅ Bi-Annual Wellness Exams: Pets age much faster than humans and their health can change rapidly. With regular exams, you'll be able to closely monitor early signs of organ dysfunction, arthritis pain, dental