Canine Cognitive Dysfunction

By Roxanne Willems Snopek

Also known as "senility", Canine Cognitive Dysfunction affects what is a growing segment of the pet population: senior dogs. Changes in behaviour are often subtle, but easily recognizable to owners.

They probably will not be seen during a veterinary examination, so these observations are vital in diagnosing this condition. Because many owners attribute age-related changes to "normal" behaviour, clinical signs may not be reported until the condition becomes intolerable, and euthanasia is seen as the only option.

Signs of Cognitive Dysfunction syndrome include:

• disorientation
• decreased interaction with family
• activity and sleep changes
• loss of housetraining

Fortunately, recent advances in medical research have provided new hope. Anipryl (selegiline hydrochloride) is the first and only drug approved by the FDA to control clinical signs associated with Cognitive Dysfunction syndrome. If your older dog is exhibiting signs of senility, ask your veterinarian about Anipryl. It might be the answer you've been waiting for.

Article courtesy of Suite101.com.