Pure Dog Talk

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction is More Than Old Age Dr. Marty Greer, DVM is back with this month’s Veterinary Voice topic, Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction/Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome: (CDS) is a neurobehavioral disorder affecting geriatric dogs and cats that is characterized by an age-related decline in cognitive abilities sufficient to affect functioning, with behavior changes that are not attributable to other medical conditions. Signs of Dog Dementia To look out for canine cognitive dysfunction, remember to check your dog's "DISH": Disorientation Paces Wanders aimlessly Becomes stuck on the wrong side of the door or behind furniture Staring at walls or into space Seems lost in the yard or forgets the purpose of going outside Forgets where the water and food bowls and doors are Fails to recognize familiar people or dogs Reduced responsiveness to name or verbal commands Abnormal response – increased or decreased – to familiar objects Difficulty learning ne