When we talk about dementia, we usually connect it to seniors, but this isn’t the case. Pets can also get dementia. It is a widely unknown fact.
This is why it comes as no surprise that when 2000 pet owners were asked about the signs of dementia in dogs, they lacked the proper knowledge on the topic. Some of these signs are anxiety, lack of interest, restless behavior, and confusion.
More than half of the people questioned said they wouldn’t feel certain about seeing dementia symptoms in their pets. Most claimed they would feel as if this was a problem posed by the age of their dog.
When pet owners were questioned about signs they associated with age for their older pets, they gave answers similar to the aforementioned symptoms. Only a few of the people admitted that those could’ve been signs of dementia. If a pet owner knows these signs and figures out that dementia is a potential threat, he or she can assist their dog better.
Dr Hew Stacey claims that over a million senior cats and dogs currently live in the UK with undiagnosed dementia. He went on to remind people that raising awareness can go a long way in helping pet owners see the symptoms and get a diagnosis before it is too late. Not to mention that change in diet or certain mental stimulations can help improve the dog’s condition.
One of these things is to provide their pet with a lot of TLC. Moreover, it is important to not make any major changes at home, so as not to confuse your pup.
Some of the people questioned admitted to knowing about dementia. They also said that they wished they knew more before their pet had received this horrible diagnosis.
Ultimately, the goal of Dr. Hew Stacey and Vets4Pets is to raise awareness of this issue to help pet parents care better for their pets and help them have a healthy and happy life.