Sometimes, when a dog gets old, his behavior changes dramatically.  Such changes are not always the result of "old age".  Some of these "signs of old age" may be signs of a medical condition called canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS).

Research indicates that CDS is caused by physical and chemical changes that affect older dogs' brains.  Indications are confusion, barking for no reason, turning away when someone pets him, failure to recognize you, and other behaviors not normally associated with aging.  In time, these changes can give your dog a life of lonely isolation, separated from family members who no longer understand or like the dog's behavior.  Pet owners feel like their pet is less responsive, more forgetful, or confused.

If you notice changes in your old friend's habits or behavior, be sure to check with one of our veterinarians.  Don't assume that the dog is "just getting old."  Together, we can determine whether the changes in your dog's behavior are due to CDS.
 
 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF CDS?

Disorientation

Wanders aimlessly Appears lost or confused in house or yard Gets "stuck" in corners or behind furniture Stares into space or at walls Has problems finding the door Doesn't recognize familiar people Doesn't respond to verbal cues or name Appears to forget why he went outside

Interaction With Family Members

Seeks attention less often Less likely to accept petting, walks away when being petted Less enthusiastic when greeting you No longer greets family members when they return home

Activity and Sleep

Sleeps more during the day Sleeps less at night Decrease in purposeful activity Increased wandering or pacing Barks at night for no reason

Housetraining

Urinates indoors Has accidents inside the house soon after returning from a trip outside Doesn't ask to go outside

What can you do for your pet?  If we determine that your dog has CDS, there is a daily medication  called ANIPRYL that can help reduce the signs of CDS.  Bring your dog in and together we can determine whether his changed behavior is due to CDS.