RE: Cognitive Dysfunction in dogs

debbie anslow — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 05:53:54 GMT

Hey Ben,

Wow, what amazing information, I'm currently expanding g our nursing clinics to include senior pets. If you wouldn't mind emailing me the studies and your screening form I would be very very appreciative!!!

Thanks

Debbie

RE: Cognitive Dysfunction in dogs

Julie-Anne Wilson — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 19:08:55 GMT

[quote user="Ben Ogden"]

Also, I have all the studies for the information here and i'll happily pass them on for you to take a look at.

[/quote]

That would be great. I've always had an interest in CD but it's hard to find CPD on it. My email address is drew221082@hotmail.com.

At the moment, she's only showing increased barking and I was just trying to get info on the treatment options in case it does turn in to something more.

RE: Cognitive Dysfunction in dogs

Ben Ogden — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 17:45:13 GMT

Hi Julie, i don't know your dog personally but I can offer some generalised advice from cases I have handled.

Diagnosis is initially based on clinical signs represented by the acronym DISHA; representing Disorientation, Altered interactions with people or other pets, altered Sleep–wake cycles, Housesoiling and Activity; which may initially decline and over time become restless or repetitive in pets with Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS)

However, one of the earliest signs of CDS is a decline in memory and learning, which is the primary measure for early detection of human Alzheimer’s, but this largely goes undetected with most owners. Other commonly observed signs include anxiety, troubled sleep, and agitation.

There isn't a standardised scales for screening and diagnosing cognitive dysfunction as they are still under development. I do however have a good screening form, which helps score the severity and is useful in picking out details that need addressing.

When cognition is impaired, diet, drugs, or supplements might be useful in improving signs, slowing the progress of CDS, and making pets more amenable to behavioural management. Canine studies have also shown that mental stimulation is an essential component in maintaining quality of life and that continued enrichment in the form of training, play, exercise, and novel toys can help to maintain cognitive function. This is really quite important and any medication should be treated as an adjunct.

Maintaining a regular, predictable daily routine and providing the pet with control to engage in pleasant interactions, and avoid unpleasant ones, may help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve cognitive function and quality of life, and maintain temporal orientation.

Bear in mind excessive change can be stressful, especially to the senior dogs, so that any change in the household or routine should be gradual. Inconsistency and lack of control can cause stress and negatively impact health and behavioural well-being.

Selegiline is an inhibitor of MAOB in the dog. It may enhance dopamine and other catecholamines in the cortex and hippocampus. Also Selegiline may contribute to a decrease in free radical load in the brain, but it is important to avoid medication that increasse serotonin transmission, such as SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants when using Selegiline.

Another strategy in the treatment of CDS is to use dietary supplements to improve antioxidant defences and reduce the toxic effects of free radicals. A senior diet (Canine b/d) has been shown to improve the signs and slow the progress of cognitive decline.

Another product I've used called Senilife (CEVA Animal Health) was beneficial for CDS in dogs; it contains phosphatidylserine, a membrane phospholipid, that is purported to facilitate neuronal activities such as signal transduction. It also contains gingko biloba, which may have neuroprotective and antioxidant effects and is purported to enhance dopaminergic transmission and cerebral blood flow.

SAMe may help to maintain cell membrane fluidity and receptor function and regulate
neurotransmitter levels as well as increase the production of glutathione.

This is all I have in my brain currently but if I think of more, i'll add them on. If you want to look at the screening form or want more information just let me know. Also, I have all the studies for the information here and i'll happily pass them on for you to take a look at.