Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.

Source: Dog World, Meredith Wargo, Journalist

Did you know that dogs get what is like human Alzheimer's? It is true. CDS, Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, is common in older dogs. Some just cast it off as "old age." When in truth, they are suffering from this syndrome. It is caused by chemical and physiological changes in the brain, just like in humans. Sometimes a cluster of symptoms may be noted such as confusion, memory loss and personality changes, just like in humans.

The signs are progressive and gradual, just like the stages in Alzheimer's. Many dogs with CDS will forget which side of the door to go out of and stand at the hinge side, waiting for you to open the door. Other signs are sleeping abnormalities, such as sleeping more in the day and being restless at night. Some will become "lost" in their own yards, or get "stuck" in a corner. And, sometimes the symptoms seem contradictory, such as a dog with hearing loss being more sensitive to strange sounds.

And, before any medical signs are apparent, these types of behavioral changes may indicate that something is changing in the older dog. Melissa Bain, DVM, Dipl. ACVB, M.S., of the Companion Animal Behavior Service at UC Davis says, " CDS is a diagnosis of exclusion in which all other diseases and medical conditions are ruled out."

First and second level problems are things like noise phobias and separation anxiety, need to be ruled out before diagnosing CDS. If you suspect that your older pet is suffering from this condition, tell your vet. He/she will typically ask you to complete a form that details the history of their dog's behavior and routines. This collects info on appetite, potty patterns, cognition, recognition, social relationships, sleep-wake patterns and anxiety.

The available treatments are a combination of drug therapy, dietary changes and environmental stimulation to help a dog maintain an optimal quality of life. Some symptoms are: Disorientation (not knowing their surroundings that were previously familiar, becoming stuck in a corner and forgets to stop or respond to its name) Interaction with others. (seeks attention less often, grows less tolerant of being petted, wanders away, displays lack of interest in surrounding. Sleep and activity: (sleeps more throughout the day and less at night, reduced activity in a 24 hr. day and increases wandering and pacing. House training: (loss of bladder/bowel indoors, house training habits seem to just be forgotten, signals less to go outside to potty and appears to forget reason for wanting out.)

This disease is as devastating as Alzheimer's is to humans. Personally, I think losing ones memory is the worst thing that can happen to someone or an animal. If your older pet is exhibiting any of these traits, take them to your vet and talk to him or her. Early detection is the key in giving your pet a chance at a better quality of life and maybe a few more years with you as your companion.

Cold Weather Tips For You And Your Dog.

It seems hard to believe that winter is just around the corner, but it is. So, here are some very useful tips to help you keep your best friend comfortable in the cold. Most of your toy breeds, Chihuahua's, Maltese, Yorkies, etc., usually have "clothes" that their responsible owners put on them. Even large dogs, such as Boxers, that have only one coat, get very cold. If your dog shivers when outside and it is cold, it needs to have some type of a sweater or coat. You can find many different kinds in pet boutiques such as Just Dogs! Gourmet in the Huntington Mall, or Pet Palace in Huntington WV or some grooming facilities also carry clothes.

If a dogs internal temperature gets below 96 degrees F, it can go into hypothermia. Shivering is a sign of an animal being too cold. They shiver to produce heat, by the way.

The most horrific thing about cold weather, is anti-freeze. This is a very sweet tasting substance to dogs and cats. Even in a very small amount, it can kill. Anti-freeze poisoning is very painful. Some horrible people use it to poison dogs and cats that run wild because they will drink it.

When the snows come, people use chemicals and salt to melt the snow. These can be very painful to your dog's feet. The chemicals actually burn the pads. So, if possible, walk them in areas that don't have that on it. Also, you can buy a salve called Mushis's Secret. It can be applied to reduce the pain caused by salt and chemicals.

Ah, Christmas. The tinsel and ornaments on the pretty tree. While they are so pretty to look at, they can be extremely harmful to your pet if ingested. The tinsel will bind in the intestines and the sharp edges can actually cut the intestines. Symptoms of ingestion include: decreased appetite,vomiting, diarrhea, listlessness and weight loss. Also, blood in the stool or vomit. The only cure is surgery.

Last, but not least, dogs that have to live outside. Never use a chain choke collar to tie up your outside dog. The main reason, they can hang themselves. But, metal attracts cold and can actually burn, yes burn, your dogs skin. The skin will be black. Meaning it is dead. Always use a flat buckle collar made of leather or nylon.

I hope these few tips help when the weather really turns cold.