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. 🐱😻
We all know the adage "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" and we're here to tell you that this is far from true!
When you first got your pet, you more than likely spent a lot of time training them and teaching them basic commands. Now that your pet is older, training might be far from the first thing on your mind.
Pets, particularly dogs, are happier when they are mentally and physically active! One-on-one training provides exactly that in addition to getting the attention they may be craving. Specifically when using positive reinforcement methods!
Positive reinforcement is when rewards come when you do something correctly, even though you may not know what you’re supposed to do. No punishments are ever handed out.
There are many benefits of using positive reinforcement training methods for pets, including:
❤️ Reduction in fear and stress of pets
🧡 A strengthened bond between pet and owner
💛 Faster learning of new behaviors
💚 Ability to teach unnatural behaviors
💙 Ability to teach complex behaviors
💜 Children can safely use this method (training involving punishment can be dangerous)
It's #walkyourpetmonth and we want to know---how often do you walk your pet? Once or twice a day? A week? A month!
Let us know in the comments down below!
Do you make New Year's Resolutions? This year, we want to take more time to "paws", take deep breaths, and appreciate all the little moments in life.
What's your resolution this year?
You may already know that overweight pets are more likely to live shorter lives. But excess weight can cause a variety of health issues with your pet in the meantime.
➡️ Cancer - Overweight pets are more susceptible to certain cancers. To treat your pet for cancer, Petplan estimates the average cost will be $2,033
➡️ Joint Injuries - Even just a few extra pounds can add significant stress to your pet's joints (knees are the most commonly affected) costing an average of $3,480 to treat.
➡️ Urinary Tract Infections - Overweight female pets have more trouble cleaning hard-to-reach places or folds of fat may trap bacteria, leading to a UTI. Petplan estimates the cost for treatment for a UTI is $590.
➡️ Heart Disease - In overweight pets, the heart and circulatory system are working overtime which can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure. Treating cardiac conditions can cost approximately $1, 232.
➡️ Back Problems - Overweight pets with short legs and long bodies are prone to intervertebral disc diseases which can cost an average of $2,033 to treat.
Be sure that you measure out portions each day appropriate for your pet, choose the appropriate diet, show love without treats if needed, exercise regularly, and visit the vet routinely!
In 2010, the Association of Professional Dog Trainers established the first-ever National Train Your Dog Month.
The purpose of this month is to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training and, most of all, to remind the public that training your dog can be easy and fun!
If you happened to welcome a new pup to the family this holiday season, check out their website for some amazing resources that will help you and your family learn about everything from teaching your children about dog safety to how to handle your barking dog and everything in between!
https://trainyourdogmonth.com
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! 🥰
Don't be surprised!
You may be planning a night out with family and friends which means that your pet might be left home alone with lots of confusing noises coming from outside.
Before you head out, double-check the house to make sure all the exits are secure and do what you can to ensure that your pet feels comfortable and safe.
Remember to remove any harmful plants, foods, or medications that your pet could get into.
🥳🤩 Happy celebrating and Happy New Year! 🥳🤩
Yes, our precious doggos do get dementia...It's formally referred to as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) which can present itself as involutive depression, dysthymia, hyper-aggression, or confusional syndrome.
Here are some signs of doggy dementia. And remember, always speak with a Veterinarian about any concerns you have for your pet!
🐶 Pacing back and forth or in circles (often turning consistently in one direction)
🐶 Getting lost in familiar places
🐶 Staring into space or walls
🐶 Walking into corners or other tight spaces and staying there
🐶 Appearing lost or confused
🐶 Waiting at the “hinge” side of the door to go out
🐶 Failing to get out of the way when someone opens a door
🐶 Failing to remember routines, or starting them and getting only partway through
🐶 Sundowning
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.
The thought of holiday food makes our mouths water! Yours too? Guess what? Your pet's mouth is watering, as well! As tempting as it may be to share your amazing spread with your pets--beware of the following foods that are particularly dangerous for your fur-babies!
❗Chocolate
❗Pumpkin Pie
❗Corn Cobs
❗Gravy
❗Turkey Bones
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! 🥰
