Pets with dementia

As it happens in humans, even pets can get dementia.

A new book by Dr. Shawn Messonnier called Unexpected Miracles (Forge Books) talks about cognitive disorders in dogs and cats.

Messonnier, a holistic vet who has a radio program on the Martha Stewart Sirius/XM channel uses the book to describe how holistic medicine can help animals when conventional treatments don't work.

His Web site — petcarenaturally.com — has an article about cognitive disorders in pets. Read it here.

While the condition appears new, it is not and has been recognized by veterinarians for many years. There are a number of clinical signs in pets with cognitive disorder. These signs are often accepted by owners as normal signs of aging, when in fact they are signs of a (usually) treatable condition. Owners must be taught that any of these signs warrants a full evaluation. Education must begin before the first geriatric visit. Regular geriatric examination, ideally every 6-12 months, will facilitate communication and allow for early diagnosis of cognitive disorder and other conditions often seen in geriatric dogs.

Common signs in dogs and cats with cognitive disorder include:

• Wandering aimlessly
• Vocalizing for no reason
• Getting stuck in a corner
• Increased daytime sleeping
• Seeking less attention
• Loss of house training
  

Messionnier stresses that these signs can mimic other conditions, like cancer and hypothyroidism, so vets should do a full checkup prior to making a diagnosis of cognitive disorder.

Drug treatment is available, he said, but some might consider the cost — $125 per month for a 30-pound dog — prohibitive.

Natural alternatives, including herbs, thyroid supplement and nutritional supplementation have been found to be effective, Messionnier said.

... and many more

Here's to Max.

The world's oldest dog.

According to this article in the Daily Telegraph in the United Kingdom, the terrier mix lives in New Iberia, La., and has a birth certificate from his vet proving his age: 26. Guinness World Records is checking Max out.

But Max is still in fine health and only suffers from mild arthritis and some cataracts. His secret, says Janelle (Derouen, his owner), is not worrying about anything at all.

"He's a very, very laid back dog," said Janelle.

"He likes to lie down, relax, nap, sleep a lot and keep life simple. He'll play with the kids for a bit but if they bother him too long he'll wander off."

And you can see from the picture with the article, not everyone can wear a hat.

Congrats, Max!

Taking care of older pets

With Kate now on the other side of 14 years, I've been thinking more and more about how she's aging and what, if anything, I need to do for her.

An article in the St. Petersburg Times by veterinarian Tracy Acosta gives some tips all of us with older pets should be aware of.

Older pets have different veterinary and nutritional needs and can benefit greatly from specialized care, health testing and dietary planning. ... So, with good genes and excellent care, you can be sure that your pet's life will be a long and happy one.

Included in the article is such advice as:

• Providing steps or a ramp to allow your pet up on the bed or couch, if you actually allow them to do that.

• Make sure bedding is comfortable and washable (for those accidents).

• Keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated.

• Regular grooming and teeth brushing should be maintained.

We all know how I feel about grooming.