Page 145 - Aussie Magazine - 2024 Issue 3

HOW CAN YOU TREAT COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION IN DOGS?
Although the condition will
progressively worsen and
there is no cure, there are ways
to help manage and slow CDS.
For example, there are several
medications available. One is
selegiline, which is thought
to slow down oxidative
damage in the brain. Another
is propentofylline, a drug that
helps with blood circulation in
the brain.
You can also talk to
your veterinarian about
supplements like SAMe
(S-adenosylmethionine), vitamin goal. Exercising the
E, and ginkgo biloba, which all
act as antioxidants. Research
has shown that adding
A Worldwide Magazine for the Aussie • Issue 3/2024 | 145
antioxidants to a canine diet
can help older dogs complete
more difficult learning tasks,
suggesting consuming them
can result in improvements in
cognitive function. Finally, don’t
rule out dietary treatment for dog
dementia. Diets rich in fish oils
or medium chain triglycerides
(MCTs), including two veterinary
diets, have proven helpful.
It can be challenging to live with
a dog with CDS, particularly if
your dog is no longer friendly
or poops in the house. And it’s
hard to watch your dog’s quality
of life decline. Many owners
struggle with when to put down
a dog with dementia.
But dogs with CDS can have
full life spans. To help your dog
with CDS live a happier life,
Dr. Denenberg says providing
mental and environmental
enrichment is critical.
“The brain is like a
muscle—use it or lose
it. So training, puzzle
toys, and exercise are
all essential. Of course,
you must be realistic
with your expectation.
The key to remember
is that success in
training is not the
brain is.”