And just like hoomans, dogs experience something similar to that of Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. And this is commonly referred to as dog dementia but is also called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD).

Like us, as dogs grow older, their brains age and their behavior changes. And older dogs that develop this syndrome become more absentminded and disoriented.

In this article, we’ll do a deep dive on dog dementia, how and when it develops, what the signs and symptoms are, how to treat it, and of course, how to take care of a dog with it.

It causes similar symptoms to that of dementia or Alzheimer’s in humans, hence the name. Furthermore, clinical signs of CCD is found in nearly one in three dogs over the age of 11. And by the time dogs reach the age of 16, nearly all of them will display at least one sign of this syndrome.

However, dogs can also develop dementia due to other factors. Genetics and other medical conditions like brain tumors or a stroke can affect the onset of dog dementia.

But every dog is unique. And as mentioned above, dog dementia can develop due to other factors other than a dog’s aging process.

Signs and Symptoms Of Dog Dementia

The signs and symptoms of dementia for dogs can range from mild to severe. The initial symptoms are mild, but they gradually worsen as the disease progresses over time.

Below are the most common dog dementia symptoms:

• Disorientation and confusion
• Failing to remember familiar places, faces (like other people and pets), and commands
• Anxiety
• Extreme irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Aimless wandering or pacing
• Staring blankly at walls or at nothing
• Decreased desire to play
• Seeming disregard for previously learned training and rules
• Slow to learn new tasks
• Lack of self-grooming
• House soiling
• Sleeping problems such as night walking, vocalization, and pacing

The earlier you detect the onset of dog dementia, the better. So, as an owner of an aging dog, it’s important to know and be able to identify these common symptoms in your pooch for early intervention.

Treating Dog Dementia

There is no permanent cure for dog dementia. However, treatments to slow the progression of the syndrome and relieve its symptoms are available.

Treating canine cognitive dysfunction requires medicine, a lot of support, and therapy to promote your pooch’s brain function and potentially, slow down cognitive decline.

Treatment options for dog dementia includes:

1. Medication & Supplements: There are medication and supplements that can help slow down the progression of dementia in dogs. These medication will depend on your dog’s symptoms. So, make sure to speak to your dog’s veterinarian to find out the best options for your pooch.
2. Dietary changes: This is when you change your senior dog’s diet to something that contains antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B, E and C. However, please note that this must be done with the guidance of your dog’s vet.
3. Life enrichment: This includes developing and sticking to a routine, providing appropriate physical exercise, and mental stimulation for your pooch.
4. Behavioral therapy: Since dogs suffering from cognitive dysfunction experience a change in behaviors, therapy can be beneficial for them. It can help ease their anxiety and alleviate their behavioral changes.

Treatment for dog dementia depends highly on your dog’s symptoms. And of course, before you even begin with treatment, a thorough consultation with your dog’s vet is a must!

How To Take Care Of A Dog With Dementia

While it may not completely prevent dementia, there are a lot of ways to take care of a dog with dementia, physically and mentally, to keep them healthy.

Here are things you can do to take care of and support a dog suffering from cognitive dysfunction:

1. Put up nightlights at home to help your senior dog navigate better in the dark.
2. Add potty pads near doors so that your pooch can potty, especially when you’re not at home for long periods of time.
3. Opt for an orthopedic dog bed for better sleep quality and to alleviate any type of discomfort.
4. When making changes to their routine, make sure to do it gradually.
5. Avoid any changes that may cause anxiety or stress. Things such as rearranging the furniture and introducing new and unfamiliar places, persons, pets, etc.
6. Dementia-proof your home. Think of it as you baby-proofing your home. As dementia progresses, a dog that used to be well-trained might forget all of these and may not have the same level of restraint and patience. They might be tempted to eat leftovers, so make sure to keep your food in dog-proof containers and that the garbage is out of their reach.
7. Provide plenty of love, patience, and support. Taking care of a dog with dementia is an emotional journey, both for the owner and the dog. It can be frustrating and exhausting, especially when they gradually forget their training and undergo behavioral changes. But remember, these changes are as frustrating for them as they are to you. So, giving them lots of love, patience, and support will help them cope better.
8. Monitor their overall health and schedule regular vet check-ups. Since a senior dog is more susceptible to health issues, it’s best to monitor their health and schedule vet check-ups to ensure their overall health and check for any other issues.

Conclusion

And taking care of a dog with dementia is a journey, both physically and mentally. From making small changes at home to cater to them better, to providing things to keep them calm and happy, there are many ways to show your pooch how much you love and care for them, despite their old age and condition.

But by being there for your beloved pooch, providing them the support, patience, and compassion they need, dealing with dog dementia can be less challenging.

A recent study by The Dog Aging Project, a group exploring age-related illnesses in dogs and ways to improve quality of life in old age, discovered that dementia is common in dogs aged 10 years or older.

Dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction, is a progressive brain disease that causes behavioral, cognitive, and other changes, similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. It can be challenging for veterinarians to make a diagnosis. No reliable, non-invasive test exists for it. Additionally, senior dogs may have additional health issues that make diagnosis more difficult, just like in humans.

According to Sarah Yarborough, an epidemiologist and family medicine professor at the University of Washington, “Dogs experience many of the same age-related diseases that we do.” 

“Gaining a better understanding of how these diseases manifest in our dog population may give us clues that will better explain the disease progression of [human] diseases like dementia,” she added.

Researchers discovered that after age 10, a dog’s risk of developing dementia increases annually. However, age is not the only factor. Participants in the study with lethargic or inactive dogs were nearly seven times more likely to have dementia than active dogs, despite sharing the same breed, health status, age, and sterilization status.

The leading factors connected to a dog’s risk of developing dementia have been identified by a large new study involving 15,000 dogs involved in the Dog Aging Project. 

Two surveys were distributed to pet dog owners by the researchers. One inquired about the dogs’ health and physical activities. The second examined the dogs’ cognitive abilities. Canine cognitive impairment was considered to affect 1.4% of the dogs. For dogs over ten years old, every extra year of life increased the risk of developing dementia by more than 50 percent. The researchers’ key finding was that exercise may have a significant preventive impact. Comparing dogs who were reported as being inactive to those who were reported as being active, the likelihood of receiving a diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction increased by 6.47 times.

The Dog Aging Project, founded in 2014 by Kate Creevy, Daniel Promislow, and Matt Kaeberlein and partly funded by National Institute on Aging grants, collects information about tens of thousands of dogs across the United States as they grow. In some cases, owners may also provide veterinary records and biological samples, such as genetic material.

A recent study from North Carolina State University examined the connection between dementia and hearing loss in aging dogs. The results provide insight into how sensory loss impacts canine cognition and may help improve care for older dogs.

Corresponding author Dr. Natasha Olby, a professor at North Carolina State University School of Veterinary Medicine said, “In humans, we know that age-related hearing loss is estimated to affect one-third of people over age 65.” 

Olby and colleagues examined 39 geriatric dogs for the study. Each dog underwent cognitive and auditory tests, and their owners completed two standard questionnaires, one on quality of life and the other on cognitive function. Age, questionnaire and cognitive testing results were compared between hearing groups. Each group’s dogs had an average age of 12, 13, and 14. T

“We also know that the rate of cognitive decline is approximately 30% to 40% faster in people with age-related hearing loss and that hearing loss is a greater contributor to dementia risk than other factors such as [high blood pressure] or obesity. But we don’t understand whether the same holds true for dogs,” Olby added in a university news release.

“Hearing loss is one of the biggest predictors of dementia in people,” Olby added. “Hearing loss also contributes to falls in elderly people, as sensory decline contributes to a loss in motor skills. So the connection between physical and neurological decline is clear for humans.”

The study’s findings revealed that “average” dogs have no trouble hearing tones at a volume of 50 decibels. At 50 dB, which is similar to a quiet refrigerator, 19 dogs could hear, followed by 12 at 70 dB, which is similar to a dishwasher, and eight at 90 dB, which is roughly equivalent to the noise produced by an airplane taking off. 

“This study indicates that the same connection [seen in humans] is at work in aging dogs,” Olby explained. “But since we can potentially treat hearing loss in dogs, we may be able to alleviate some of these other issues. By quantifying neurological and physiological changes in elderly dogs, we’re not only improving our ability to identify and treat these issues in our pets, we’re also creating a model for improving our understanding of the same issues in humans.”

The findings were published online Saturday in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

A senior golden retriever’s owners gave up hope after the dog wandered three weeks ago from their house. Thankfully, a construction team discovered her in salmonberry bushes after initially mistaking her for a bear.

According to the Daily Sitka Sentinel, Lulu was barely alive when she was discovered last July 5, but she is being nursed back to health and is now back home with her family.

After Lulu went missing on June 18, the Kubacki family searched for weeks. Owner Ted Kubacki said, “She means everything. I have five daughters, and they’re 4 to 13 years old, so they’ve spent every day of their life with that dog.”  

“She’s just so helpless, and you kind of imagined that she can’t get real far because she can’t see,” Kubacki added.

It didn’t help when the family became the target of a horrible joke after someone claimed to have located Lulu a few days into the hunt.

“We put the kids to bed and got a text saying, ‘We found your dog,’ or ‘I have your dog,’ and we’re like, ‘Oh my god, this is incredible,'” he said. “Then the person texted me, ‘Just kidding.’ This happened, yeah, that was all part of this terrible story.”

The family had given up all hope after weeks of searching. But last week, a construction worker discovered Lulu in the brush alongside a road near the Kubackis’ home. She was roughly 15 feet (4.57 meters) down an embankment, and the team initially mistook her for a bear.

When he got the word that Lulu had been located, all of the family’s grief vanished.

“They got a closer look and they realized that it was a dog, and they got her out of there,” Kubacki said.

Dogs age at varying rates. Normally, knowing if your dog is a senior depends on their size, if they are a larger or smaller breed. But looking for indicators that your dog is getting old is one way to tell. Some signs include loss of vision, going deaf, changes in weight, bad breath and overall slowing down. 

Care for senior dogs is different from the one you give to puppies. They may require more consideration and support. Keep reading as we list out some tips to help you give the best care to your aging dog. 

Age-Appropriate Diet

Good senior dog food is low in calories, high in fiber, and meets the nutritional needs of an aging dog’s body. You can still feed them the regular food that they eat, but senior dog food can help avoid obesity, which is a common health problem with aging dogs. Obesity can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even early-onset death. Consulting with your veterinarian is recommended if your dog has special needs and requirements regarding food. 

Regular Exercise

Maintaining an active lifestyle with a proper diet can reduce the possibility of illness. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. Exercise can become shorter as they grow older since senior dogs have lower energy levels. Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming and indoor games that can ensure they still get the stimulation they need. 

Vet Check-Ups

Following exercise and diet, regular check-ups are the next most important thing when caring for a senior dog. Most veterinarians recommend having an older dog examined every six months and may recommend more frequent visits depending on your dog’s health condition. Look out for any changes in appetite, weight, or any pain that needs to be addressed immediately.

Grooming

Grooming is necessary for a dog’s entire life, but it becomes even more essential as they age. Regular grooming allows you to check your dog from head to tail for any strange bumps, blisters, or rashes. Brushing increases circulation and helps with the skin’s condition. Baths may be required more frequently due to medical concerns that cause frequent potty accidents, such as incontinence.

Special Access

Senior dogs, just like people getting older, can suffer from joint pains. Avoid strain on their muscles and joints by putting gates to block their access to stairs. Memory foam beds can help with orthopedic problems by molding to the contours of the body. You might not want to rearrange the furniture in your house if your dog is beginning to lose his sight. It is extremely helpful that the layout of the house stays the same, so he won’t have any problems getting around.

It can be hard for a fur parent to see their dog aging, and it can become difficult to manage them. But giving them the best possible care can help them lead a healthy life for many years. Aging is inevitable, and if any changes worry you, visit your veterinarian to find out the best thing to do. 

However, this is something every pet owner dreads. But giving them a pain-free and peaceful death is the duty of a responsible pet owner.

Opting for dog euthanasia for your beloved pet is never an easy decision. But how do you know when it’s time to gently let your dog go?

In this article, we will discuss what to ask your veterinarian to determine if treatment is an option. Or how to assess your pet’s ability to fulfill basic needs and how to assess your pet’s general quality of life.

After that, we will discuss what to expect when it is time to euthanize your dog. And your options to care for your dog’s remains.

Continue reading below to see how to make the painful decision and what to expect during the process.

Before the dog euthanasia process

Before opting for dog euthanasia, you have to consult your dog’s health with your veterinarian and discuss the following:

1. What health conditions does your pet have?

Your veterinarian may need to do some basic testing such as blood work and x-rays to assess your pet’s health.

2. Are further diagnostics and treatment worthwhile?

Veterinary medicine has come a long way. We have things like MRIs, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy available for our pets. However, just because these things are available does not mean they will change your pet’s prognosis.

Discuss with your veterinarian what you’ll gain if you get more diagnostic tests and treatments. And discuss with them the risks and benefits as well. If the results will not significantly alter your pet’s situation, it may not be wise to push through.

3. Get a referral for a second opinion

It never hurts to have a second expert opinion on your pet’s health. In fact, your veterinarian can refer you to a board-certified specialist.

4. Be reasonable

Access to diagnostic tools or treatment does not mean it’s a good option, especially when talking about an elderly pet. Do not hesitate to talk to your veterinarian about what is reasonable in your pet’s case and for your finances. Unfortunately, we do have to consider finances when caring for our pets.

3. Focus on the expected outcome

Once you develop a plan with your veterinarian, make sure it has an outcome. Whether that outcome is to solve a health problem or to increase quality of life but not cure a problem.

Dog euthanasia: Basic information to know about your dog

Now that you’ve consulted with your veterinarian, it’s time to really think about and consider the following:

1. Food

Is your pet physically able to eat? Does your pet have a medical condition causing them loss of appetite and weight? Have you discussed with your veterinarian if a special diet may help your pet?

If your pet is supposed to eat a special diet and refuses, discuss with your veterinarian an alternative diet.

2. Water intake

Is your pet drinking? Are they drinking much more than they normally would? Are they drinking water from unusual places? Do you suddenly not need to fill the water bowl?

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about your pet’s drinking habits. This can be important information. Never restrict your pet’s water intake unless your veterinarian provides you with specific instruction to do so. Restricting water can cause dehydration and be dangerous to your pet.

3. Bathroom habits

It is important that you tell your veterinarian about your pet’s bathroom habits. If your pet goes to the bathroom outside without you, check the yard daily. Look for any changes in amount or consistency of the stool. Note any straining when your pet urinates or defecates.

Additionally, watch your dog or check their cage for urine. Note any changes in the urine amount, frequency, or color. And report any changes to your veterinarian.

Evaluating and monitoring your dog’s quality of life

Quality of life refers to your pet’s ability to enjoy themselves as they usually have. This may include going for walks, playing fetch, rough housing with pals, enjoying favorite treats, and generally being comfortable.

Here are 2 methods to help evaluate and monitor your pet’s quality of life:

• The List: Make a list of all of the things and activities your pet enjoys. If your dog can’t do anything from the list, cross them off. When you have more items crossed off, go back to your veterinarian. And discuss whether or not it may be time to opt for dog euthanasia.
• Distress: If your pet is distressed by their inability to participate in favored activities, go back to your veterinarian to discuss this. For example, if your dogs wrestle and the other one whines and tries to get up but is unable to participate, they are likely distressed by the situation. Or if one of your dogs have passed away, the other dog can get depressed because of it.

Dog euthanasia expectations

Now that you’ve made the painful decision to let your dog go, what next? Here are some factors to consider and expectations when the time comes.

Veterinarian’s office vs. Home

Typically your veterinarian performs dog euthanasia in their office. Depending on your locality, your vet may offer house calls. Or may be able to refer you to a vet that does house calls.

Do you want to be with your dog when he/she is euthanized?

Many people want to be there for the euthanasia, but some don’t. And it’s okay if you do not want to be there. Your veterinarian and their staff will stay with your dog. Or you can opt to have your pet sedated, stay with them, and leave once they are sleepy.

When it comes to dog euthanasia, do not hesitate to talk to your veterinarian about what you’ll be comfortable with.

Sedatives

Your vet will discuss with you whether or not a sedative is appropriate for your pet. Some pets that don’t like the vet can be sedated at home before coming to the clinic.

Additionally, prior to dog euthanasia, your veterinarian may give your pet a sedative in the office. They may recommend this depending on your pet’s state when they come in.

What happens when your dog is euthanized?

Your vet will administer an overdose of an anesthetic agent in your pet’s vein (location of administration may vary by type of pet). They tape into place a butterfly catheter or an IV catheter.

Following the injection, your pet will fall asleep and their heart will stop. It is not uncommon for the pet to take breaths or let out a sigh shortly after the agent is administered.

Your pet may also release their bladder and bowels. If your pet is on a special blanket, you may want to move it to the front end of your pet to prevent it from becoming soiled.

Your veterinarian will carefully monitor your pet to assure that they have passed away.

Types of dog burials

What do you do next? What are your options in taking care of your pet’s body after it is euthanized? Here are types of burials you can consider:

Group cremation or burial

Your veterinarian typically offers this through a pet cemetery/crematorium. With this option, your pet is cremated or buried with others.

Remains are typically buried in a pet cemetery. And they are often deposited somewhere such as an orchard.

Furthermore, your veterinarian can tell you what the company they use does with the group remains. And this is typically the least expensive option your veterinarian will offer.

Private cremation

A pet crematorium will cremate your pet individually. The ashes are placed in an urn and returned to the owner.

Your veterinarian may take care of transporting your pet’s body for cremation or they will have information for you to do so.

The standard urn is typically a wooden box. And the remains are sealed in a bag and the box is usually screwed shut.

If you want to move the remains to a different urn, do not be afraid to open the box. You may also be able to purchase a special urn from the crematorium. You can always ask your veterinarian about availability of special urns.

Burial at home

You may wish to bury your pet at home. Just be aware of your local regulations regarding burying bodies on your property. It is not permitted in all areas.

Additionally, be sure your pet’s body is well sealed in a bag prior to burial. You will want to bury them deep enough to deter scavengers from digging up the grave.

Conclusion

Dog euthanasia is typically a very gentle and peaceful process. But it is something that every dog owner dreads but must face one day.

When you think it’s time to say goodbye to your furry friend, consult with your veterinarian. They can answer any questions you may have about the whole dog euthanasia process.

Each year, an estimated 860,000 cats and 670,000 dogs are euthanized in the nation’s shelters. Many potential pet adopters overlook older animals, thinking that they may be more difficult and unaware there are so many reasons why these seasoned pets make ideal family members and friends:

• They tend to be less rambunctious than younger animals
• They’re often already house-trained
• Because they are calmer and less fragile, they can be a great fit for people with children
• They know you are rescuing them and are so grateful

“It’s heartbreaking to think about all the senior animals who had been cherished pets before they suddenly found themselves frightened and alone in shelters,” said Robin Ganzert, PhD, president and CEO of American Humane. “Far too often this happens to older pets through no fault of their own after their families encounter financial troubles, illnesses, or other upheavals in their lives. By adopting animals like these, you will not only be giving them a second home, you will be giving them a second chance at life.”

Numerous articles and books are available about adopting older animals. A bestselling book, “My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts,” by TODAY.com writer Laura T. Coffey and photographer Lori Fusaro makes a powerful case in words and pictures why those interested in adding a dog to their families may want to choose a seasoned one with life experience.

“Older dogs who get adopted from shelters and find loving, permanent homes might be the most grateful dogs on the planet,” says Coffey. “It’s a great deal for us, too. When you adopt a dog over the age of about 6 or 7, you get to jump ahead to the very best part! Dogs in this age group tend to be calmer and are already house-trained, so they often make ideal pets for people with busy lives.”

Scores of senior-specific rescue groups and senior-specific adoption efforts at animal shelters are making it easier than ever for people to bring older animals home without breaking the bank. The “My Old Dog” book includes a comprehensive resource guide with contact information for senior dog rescue groups across the United States. Some foster-based groups cover senior cats and dogs’ veterinary bills and prescription food costs for life; others take care of all major veterinary work before putting animals up for adoption. “Seniors for Seniors” programs also are wonderful provisions offered by many shelters and rescue organizations. These programs match mellow older cats and dogs with older people, and they almost always waive adoption fees and cover all initial veterinary and grooming expenses. Many “Seniors for Seniors” programs also provide free welcome-home kits with food bowls, collars, food, medication, pet beds, and more.         

“Old friends are often the best friends,” says American Humane’s Dr. Ganzert. “Remember that the next time you want to add a wonderful new cat or dog to your family. You will be glad you did.”

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About American Humane
American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization, founded in 1877. To learn more visit at www.americanhumane.org today.

With so much activity happening around the home and winter weather being unpredictable, it’s easy to forget parts of your dog’s wellness routine. In order to make this holiday season easier for dog owners, we’ve put together a list of tips for keeping your hound healthy.

Prioritize Play Time

Play time is important for dogs any time of year, but especially in the winter when going on walks and going to the park may be impossible. If you can get out and go on a walk or to the dog park, that may be best. If you can’t be outside due to snow or ice, some communities also have indoor dog parks. 

Another great option is to prioritize play time in your home. Simple games of tug of war, short-distance fetch, and chase are great ways for your dogs to get some exercise while staying in the house. You can also try boredom buster activities like dog puzzles or scent games. Lots of indoor play time leads to a happier, healthier pup because it mentally stimulates them and also prevents obesity and other health problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle. 

Regularly Track Their Health

It can be easy to forget vet appointments, regular vaccinations, and daily medications during the busy holiday season. Consider placing a pet medical and medication tracker on your fridge so the whole family can keep up with Fido’s wellbeing. A medical tracker is also a great way to prevent incorrect dosing and ensure your pet is getting the right amount of medication everyday.

If you plan on traveling with your pup during the holiday season, it is also important to make sure they’re healthy enough to travel. Make sure to take your dog to the vet before extensive traveling to make sure they are in tip-top shape and are up to date on vaccinations. Dogs can get sick from travel much like humans can, so make sure to monitor their health throughout the season.

Watch What They Eat

The holidays are filled with yummy foods, but not all of these foods are good for dogs. In fact, some of them are toxic. Consider keeping a printable of foods your dog can and can’t eat on the fridge during family gatherings. This will prevent well-meaning family members from feeding your pup their leftovers that may include garlic and onions, which are harmful to dogs.

Some of the most common holiday foods that are toxic for pups include raisins, onions, and Halloween candy like chocolate. Foods like chicken, sweet potatoes, and carrots are safe for your dog if you want to feed them their own fancy holiday feast.

Invest in Pet Insurance and Prep for Caretakers

Pet insurance is a great investment to make when your dog is still a puppy. It can come in handy in the event of an emergency or for a regular vet visit. If you get pet insurance when your dog is still a puppy, they’ll be more likely to cover a healthy dog that hasn’t developed pre-existing conditions. If you wait until your pup is older and has developed health conditions, that care unfortunately won’t be covered by pet insurance in most instances.

If you do have pet insurance, make sure to let your holiday pet sitter know. Leaving your dog with a caretaker over the holidays can be hard, but if it’s something you decide is best, you want to make sure the caretaker knows everything about your animal. Consider leaving them a pet health profile with emergency contacts, as well as general information about your pet.

Pets are family, so we want to treat them as such. Their health and wellness should stay a top priority all throughout the year and especially during a hectic holiday season. Thanks to The Zebra for providing these printables that can help us keep up with our pet’s health during the crazy holidays.

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To pay homage to both American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, here are some top tips for caring for and improving the health of your beloved dog’s heart.

1. Feed your dog a healthy diet

Just like us, a healthy body starts with a healthy diet. A healthy diet plays a major role in your dog’s organ function, the quality of their skin and coat, their joint health, and, of course, their heart health. Avoiding obesity is also key to maintaining heart health, so providing a high quality, balanced diet for your pooch is paramount. For heart health in particular:

Reduce the sodium 

Heart problems can be caused by having too much sodium in your dog’s diet. Studies show that a maximum sodium level of 1.8% should be included in the diet of healthy dogs, and those suffering from heart disease should consume even less. 

Check the sodium content of your pup’s food and treats to ensure that they aren’t consuming too much.

Ensure that they are getting enough Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Making sure that your dog is getting enough omega 3 fatty acids is a great way to support their heart health. Research has shown that supplementing omega 3 into their diet decreases the production of inflammatory hormones and can improve their appetite.

According to Tufts University, the current recommended dose for dogs with heart failure is 40mg/kg EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 25 mg/kg DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) daily. There are very few commercial dog foods that provide this dose, making supplementation necessary.

One of the easiest ways to ensure that you are giving your dog sufficient nutrients and omega 3 fatty acids is to supplement their diet with a multivitamin. These doggie supplements come in a range of yummy flavored treats that your dog will happily gobble up every day without knowing they are being given a blast of goodness!

Consider using probiotics

We are all familiar with the concept of using probiotics to support our own gut health, but the same is true for our furry friends. The bacteria in your dog’s gut can influence their overall health and wellbeing both physically and psychologically, so maintaining the good bacteria in their tummies is important. Some research also suggests that an imbalance of bacteria in a dog’s gut can impact their heart health, with repopulating their gut with good bacteria reducing inflammation and blood pressure. Probiotics come in easy-to-use powdered form that can be sprinkled on your dog’s regular food.

2. Prioritize exercise

Even if your dog easily maintains a healthy weight, just like us, that doesn’t necessarily indicate fitness or great heart health. Ensuring that they get plenty of exercise daily is essential for protecting their hearts from disease. Thankfully, they don’t usually take much convincing to engage in some cardio! The trick can be to keep it varied for us – anything from walking, running, hiking, chasing a ball on the beach – whatever gets their hearts pumping!

3. Attend regular vet checks

For every one of our years, dogs age between four and nine years, and this faster aging can be all too easily overlooked – but, imagine going that many years without a medical checkup for ourselves! Bi-annual check-ups with a vet is ideal, especially for older pooches. Ultimately, prevention and early detection of issues is the optimal way to care for your pet.

4. Don’t underestimate the importance of dental care

Dental disease in dogs tends to show up between ages four – nine, and surprisingly, has a strong correlation to heart disease. The buildup of plaque and any infection in a dog’s mouth can actually contribute to congestive heart failure by entering their bloodstream. Maintain a healthy routine for your dog’s dental care and consult a vet if you notice any signs of problems such as sore gums, bleeding or bad breath etc.

5. Treat for heartworm disease

Heartworm disease can be transmitted by mosquitoes and lead to heart failure if not treated quickly – and even then it can still lead to permanent heart damage. Thankfully, it is easily prevented with a simple topical product or pill administered monthly.

6. Know the signs of Heart Disease

Most cases of heart disease in dogs develop as a result of injury, illness, infection etc. as opposed to any genetic causality. Signs to be aware of can include:

• Shortness of breath
• Dry cough after exercise 
• Rapid weight loss
• Fatigue
• Cough that is worse at night
• Fainting
• Pale gums

These and any other unusual signs and symptoms should prompt a timely visit to your local vet to check your dog’s health.

As you can see, there are a number of ways that we can prevent heart issues for our special pets and ensure their optimal health overall, too. And similarly, loving and caring for our four-legged friends has a positive impact on our own heart health too. 

What better reminder than Valentine’s Day and Heart Health Awareness Month to ensure that you are taking great care of your and your loved ones’ hearts – including your precious pooch’s!

About the Author:

Emma is a professional writer and blogger, with two furry friends and a lot of pet behavioral and pet health knowledge to share. She has written for numerous big animal magazines and health sites, and is a regular contributor to The Catington Post.

The good news is, there is a medicinal product on the market that is proving to be life-changing for many people, and as it happens, it can be of benefit to dogs as well.

Why CBD is a safer alternative to traditional medication

Cannabinol (CBD) comes from the same family as marijuana, but unlike the latter, which can get you high, CBD does not have psychoactive effects. This natural compound has been around for thousands of years.

Nevertheless, research on CBD is still preliminary. There is still much that researchers do not know about it, primarily since, in most cases, experiments can only be performed on rats rather than humans.

Despite limited research, scientists have observed CBD’s encouraging results regarding chronic diseases and mental health issues. Some of the health issues CBD can help with include Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, anxiety, depression, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, heart disease, and more.

Even more encouraging is that CBD has not exhibited harmful effects on humans or animals, thus making it a safer alternative to traditional medication.

Five mind-blowing ways senior dogs can benefit from CBD

Now that you know a little more about CBD, here are five great reasons why you should consider giving CBD to help your aging dog.

1. CBD is fantastic for pain management

Hip dysplasia or IVDD, arthritis, or inflammation, these are all health conditions that can affect your dog’s day-to-day activities. Pain management is key to decreasing the aches and giving your pet relief, and you can do this with a dose of CBD.

Studies on CBD as a powerful pain-relieving medication show great promise. In one study, conducted on rats with arthritis, researchers observed the pain-relieving effects of CBD. Scientists administered 62.3mg of CBD per day for four days, and they noticed a decrease in pain in the rats’ joints.

2. CBD is gentler on the organs

If your dog has had a history of health issues, you know that there are various pain medications to manage your pet’s pain. The problem with some of this traditional medication is that it can have serious side effects and damage other organs such as your dog’s liver or kidneys.

With age, our organs begin to wear down, and this happens to animals as well. So being gentle on these organs is critical to keeping your pet healthier for longer. The side effects of some traditional medication are significant. Some medicines can cause kidney and liver toxicity, as well as gastrointestinal ulcers and perforations. For dogs who already have kidney or liver issues, this can worsen their state, or worse, lead to death.

CBD provides you with a different alternative. You can still help your pet with the right dose but avoid causing more damage to his already weak state. Administering CBD is more accessible, as well. You can give your dog a drop of CBD oil, or you can shop vegan CBD tincture in the flavor your dog prefers.

3. CBD is excellent for anxiety

More than anything else, CBD seems to have become a trending product thanks to Instagram influencers hailing it a natural alternative to relieving anxiety. Many users have described CBD as removing, rather than adding to their experience, saying how CBD removes those negative feelings, which cause stress and anxiety.

Luckily, CBD’s work on anxiety isn’t just a trend. Studies have shown the positive effects CBD has on anxiety. It has been administered to people suffering from different mental health issues, including PTSD, depression, postpartum, menopause, and anxiety.

For your dog, CBD can provide relief from the stress and anxiety caused by an operation, pain, or an accident that left him traumatized. By increasing the dog’s serotonin level, CBD will help your pet relax and feel calmer. This, paired with a calm environment, will help your dog enjoy more peaceful days.

4. CBD helps increase appetite

A reduction in appetite is common among aging dogs, especially if they are ill or in pain. The problem is, food is critical to having your dog remain strong and healthy for longer. While force-feeding your dog isn’t practical, using CBD to increase your pet’s appetite is.

CBD works on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. The latter uses receptors to manage critical bodily functions, such as pain, mood, sleep, and more. The ECS also happens to control our hunger level. While researchers have yet to learn how CBD interacts with the ECS’s receptors, what they have observed is that it positively affects them, and in this case, it increases appetite.

5. CBD encourages sleep

What’s fascinating about CBD is that it has a double effect. In low doses, CBD acts as a stimulant, giving your dog a boost in energy to improve his quality of life. Alternatively, when taken in high doses, CBD encourages sleep by making your dog feel more relaxed.

If your dog is suffering from poor sleep due to pain, illness, or trauma, using CBD to help him get longer stretches of sleep is an excellent way to enhance his quality of life. Moreover, if you want your dog to stay still as much as possible to heal from a wound, using CBD to encourage more prolonged bouts of sleep is a safe way of ensuring that the wound is not touched. An added advantage is that CBD helps wounds heal more quickly.

Giving CBD to your dog

Although CBD comes with a long list of advantages, you must consult a medical professional before administering CBD to your dog. A professional will ensure that CBD does not have adverse effects on other medications you may be giving your dog. Moreover, as with other medicines, the dose of CBD for dogs varies from that of humans, so be sure you are giving your dog the right amount.

Jeffery Thompson is a full-time content marketing specialist. He has been closely following the pet, CBD and Cannabis industry trends for quite some time. He has dabbled in various domains before the cannabis industry. On his off days, he likes to spend his time at the nearest animal shelter or nose deep in a book.

As your dog matures, you’ll likely begin to see him exhibit a decrease in joint mobility and show signs of stiffness. He may begin to eat less and sleep more, and develop incontinence. Suddenly, he’s not as sure-footed as he used to be, he may experience an increase in aches and pains, and become more forgetful. Oftentimes, his hearing is not as acute, his vision begins to deteriorate, and he becomes confused, tired, or fatigued more quickly.

Still, as hard as it is to watch your best friend grow old, life can still be great, even in the senior years!

Dogs are most often considered to be “seniors” by the age of eight, though small and toy breed dogs tend to age much slower and larger or giant breeds can be considered seniors as early as 5 years of age. 

That’s why it’s good to begin working with your dog while he’s young to make aging as easy as possible. Here are a few things you can do now to help ease your dog into the golden years:

1. Teach Your Dog Sign Language

Begin training your dog to understand sign language while she’s still young and she will not feel nearly as lost if her hearing begins to fail. It’s very easy to do and will help your pets tremendously later in life. 

Each time you give a command, reinforce it with a hand signal – it’s that easy. Your pets will begin to understand the connections in just a few hours. Simple signs your pets should learn include: 

• Eat: Simply touch your hand to your mouth prior to serving them their meal or offering them a drink during playtime. 
• Stay/stop: A hand held palm up is a good indicator for pets to stay, or to stop doing something (particularly rough-housing or playing too hard).
• Sit: A closed fist is the easiest way to sign this action.
• Heal: A hand wave or pointing to your waist indicates a heal.
• Drop it: A waved hand can indicate a drop command. 

Because dogs learn and respond so quickly to body language and hand signals, you could even communicate with your dog using American Sign Language! If you don’t know it already, pick up a book on sign language and learn together!

2. Train Your Dog to Use Ramps or Steps: Teaching your pets to use a well-designed, sturdy pet ramp or steps to get in and out of a car or up onto a high bed or couch now, while they’re still young and agile, will not only help to preserve joints for the future, but will make using them as seniors more natural. 

Whether you’ve got a tiny dog that can’t jump high enough to reach your bed to snuggle at night, or a larger breed that can no longer get in and out of the car unassisted, there’s a wide variety of pet steps and ramps to help your growing or aging dog remain comfortably independent. Check out Solvit brand steps and ramps for reliable and trusted products ranging from bedside steps, to telescoping ramps, and everything in between to assist in your dog’s mobility.

3. Monitor Your Dog’s Activity: Monitor your pet’s activity levels and diet by using a smart pet activity tracker. These tiny monitors are typically worn right on your dog’s collar and monitor their activities each day, including time spent walking, playing, sleeping, and even eating. Regularly monitoring your dog’s activity provides you with vital information to keep them at optimum weight and adjust their caloric intake according to their activity levels.

As dogs age, their dietary requirements will need to be adjusted to maintain a healthy weight. Remember, a healthy weight – not too thin and not too heavy – is vital to a long, healthy life. Tracking your dog’s activity levels will also give you a good indication of whether or not they are experiencing pain or another medical problem before it becomes too late to treat.

4. Prevent Slipping: As dogs age, muscles weaken, and joints become weaker, walking on slippery surfaces becomes more difficult and dangerous. Toe grips and non-slip dog socks can help your pet avoid a serious injury to hips and joints while walking on slippery surfaces like hardwood, laminate, and tile. These are excellent tools designed to give your aging, senior, arthritic, or special needs dog the extra traction they need to walk on slippery floors and stairs.

5. Consider Diapers & Pee Pads: Pets can become incontinent as they age and their bladders begin to weaken. It can be a major source of anxiety for them, as well. Don’t put your dog through the unnecessary stress – instead use specially-designed diapers for dogs or place “pee pads” in the rooms they most commonly occupy. Training your dogs to use these tools will go a long way towards preserving their dignity and your patience. 

6. Use an Orthopedic Pet Bed: It has been said that every dog, if they live long enough, will eventually develop degenerative joint pain. One simple way to both lessen the pressure on aging joints and alleviate pain in senior dogs already experiences joint discomfort is with an orthopedic pet bed. Aside from providing a warm, comfortable place to rest and sleep, an orthopedic pet bed used now, before your dog is dealing with joint pain, can actually extend the health of his joints as he ages.

We love our dogs and want to make their golden years as easy as possible. Fortunately, technological advances make this easier than ever. Your pets have been with you through good times and bad, don’t they deserve the best you have to offer?