Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
As we age our systems
start to lose some of their former abilities. Our senses
(hearing, sight, smell and taste) become less sensitive. Bone
and muscle masses decline. Internal organs are not as
efficient. We become more likely to develop heart and/or
circulatory problems, cancer, kidney and liver disorders. Our
brains undergo changes resulting in cognitive (perception, memory,
reasoning) decline. These things are true for our dogs as
well. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS or CDS) is
similar to, but not exactly the same as, Alzheimer's disease in
humans. It is the age-related deterioration of cognitive
abilities characterized by behavioral changes in dogs that cannot
be attributed wholly to general medical conditions such as
neoplasia, infection or organ failure. It is caused by
physical and chemical changes that affect the brain function in
older dogs. There is no specific test that will diagnose
CDS. It is a diagnosis of exclusion meaning that the
diagnosis can only be reached after other medical conditions with
behavioral components have been ruled out. Thorough history,
physical and neurological examinations, and laboratory tests are
necessary to make a diagnosis of CDS.
Click here to read more about CDS.
Crate Training Your Dog
Crate training is neither cruel nor unfair. On the contrary,
leaving the dog unsupervised to wander, investigate, destroy, and
perhaps injure itself is far more inhumane than confinement. Insure
that the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn and play
with its toys. Proper timing and scheduling can help your dog
to adapt.
Click
here to read more about crate training your dog.
Getting Started with Your Puppy
When you bring a new puppy into your home there will be a period
of adjustment. Your goals are to help your puppy to quickly bond to
its new family, and to minimize the stress associated with leaving
its mother, littermates, and former home. If there are already dogs
in the new home the transition may be a little easier as the puppy
is able to identify with its own kind. Obtaining two puppies would
be another option. However, most puppies, especially those obtained
before 12 weeks of age, will form attachments almost immediately to
the people and any other pets in the new home, provided that there
are no unpleasant consequences associated with each new person and
experience.
Click here to read more about starting your new
life with your new family member.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by spiral shaped bacteria
called spirochetes. It occurs world-wide and affects many
wild and domestic animals as well as humans. It can cause
serious kidney and/or liver damage.
Click here to read more about
Leptospirosis.