![]() ![]() The primary signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome can be summarized with the acronym CRASH, which stands for:Ĭognitive dysfunction syndrome can be treated by your dog’s veterinarian with the drug selegiline hydrochloride (brand name Anipryl®). If medical problems are ruled out, and if primary behavior problems unrelated to aging are ruled out (for example, problems that started years before your dog began aging or those that started in response to recent changes in his environment or family), then these behavioral signs are presumed to be due to the effects of aging on the brain and are diagnosed as “cognitive dysfunction syndrome.” Treatment of Cognitive Dysfunction Any medical or degenerative illness that causes pain, discomfort or decreased mobility-such as arthritis, dental disease, hypothyroidism, cancer, impaired sight or hearing, urinary tract disease or Cushing’s disease-can lead to increased sensitivity and irritability, increased anxiety about being touched or approached, increased aggression (since your dog may choose to threaten and bite rather than move away), decreased responsiveness to your voice, reduced ability to adapt to change and reduced ability to get to usual elimination areas. If your dog shows any of the symptoms or changes listed above, your first step is to take him to his veterinarian to determine whether there is a specific medical cause for his behavior. Ruling Out Other Causes for Your Dog’s Behavior Seems unable or slower to learn new tasks or cues.Shows decreased responsiveness to known cues for obedience, tricks, sports and games.Sometimes seems unable to recognize familiar people and pets.Demonstrates an impaired ability to work or perform tasks.Develops incontinence (accidental release of bladder).Uses body language less (body postures and signals associated with feelings).Eliminates in sleeping areas (for example, in his crate or on the couch or floor).Eliminates indoors after returning from outside.Eliminates indoors in random locations or in view of you or family members.Sleep-Wake Cycles/Reversed Day-Night Schedule Is anxious about being separated from family members. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |