The secrets to delaying doggy dementia

Is it just me? I find nothing tugs at the heart strings more than that gentle grey face looking confused by the world around them. Yet pet dementia affects up to 40% of all furry family members.

Making those toilet accidents, disorientation, wall staring and late night whimpering the most concerning of all signs that something may be amiss.

Dementia is something that has touched my (human) family. And so I’m really quite determined to find a way to help at least delay the onset of this cognitive decline in our furry families too. And thankfully there’s more and more research every year.

So to save you pouring over it, I thought I’d save you…

 

So here goes with the most promising tips!

Exercise: Walks (for that cardiovascular boost!) stimulate blood flow through the brain and provide new experiences for their brain to process.

Avoid obesity: There seems to be a link between a healthy weight and a healthy brain. Interestingly, feeding them once a day (instead of multiple meals) seemed to also have a positive effect.

Training: Just as in our senior human citizens, plenty of mental stimulation (with training and puzzles) may keep the brain young. 

But it's what we feed them that was probably the most profound.

Help the brain stay young: Supplementing with MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oils, DHA rich omega 3 fish oils, Vitamins C, B and E as well as antioxidants helps to reduce inflammation and improve brain health. 

The prevalence of this cognitive decline made me determined to help in some way with an every day treat to help keep that body and importantly, their brain, young. That why I’ve included all of these supplements in my Daily Boosters treats. 

Your habits help too!
Once signs develop, it’s all about making life easier and having a routine. 

• Keep food and water bowls in the same place
• Walk at the same time
• If you’re away for a few hours, leave the radio or TV on
• Keep up the exercise
  

Oh and what about cats? Yes, dementia can and does occur. Yet, despite living (on average) longer lives, they don't seem to be as commonly affected by cognitive decline as dogs.  

The summary...

What’s beneficial for the body is beneficial for the mind. The more blood flow through the brain the better…

And lots of love always goes a long way. Of course...

Written and fact checked by Dr Chris Brown BVSc (Hons)