Pets Get Dementia, Too

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Dog Dementia

Charlie looked very good overall on his exam today.  

As discussed, if you do feel that he is demonstrating symptoms of senility (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction) he may benefit from starting Selegiline (Anipryl).  Please let us know if this is something you would like to consider. 

Canine Cognitive Dsyfuntion- it sounds so serious.  And it is.

Dogs, like people, get dementia. It can start at any age, as with adults, but usually in the later years of life.  If every year of dog life is 7 years of people life, then my dog Charlie at 14 is 98 years old! Boggles my mind.

He walks well and eats well, even though he has had six teeth extracted.  His vision, I am sad to report is not great. He has cataracts so his vision is limited.  He startles easily if someone reaches a hand out to him. A stiff wind blowing can make him stop and shake.  His earring might have declined a bit, too, but harder to assess, as his sense of smell as keen as ever.

His anxiety has increased over the years.  He doesn’t like to ride in a car anymore. Not fond of the dog groomer (which I had to stop) or the vet.  He requires a tranquilizer before our monthly visit to the vet.

I am lucky there is a good vet across the park so we can walk there. We go once a month for nails, ears and you should excuse the expression, anal gland clean-up.

I try and bathe and cut his fur monthly, it’s a challenge and he looks messy.  It’s the best I can do, given his age and his state of mind.

I did buy the Selegiline for Charlie; I haven’t started it yet.  I want to read up on side effects and if it reduces anxiety. I called the vet and am waiting for a callback.  With the Covid-19 pandemic, all services are reduced and I understand completely.

He follows me around like a little sheep; I am his security and his lifeline.  I get that. My father when he was 100 years old, also relied on me for emotional security.  It’s a big responsibility taking care of people and pets that we love.