Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is reported to be a progressive disorder with specific characteristics. Many authors group canine CDS signs into specific categories such as:
disorientation
social interactions
sleep-wake cycles
house soiling, learning and memory
activity and anxiety
There is a scoring system called the DISHAA Cognitive Dysfunction Evaluation Tool that utilizes these categories in forming a score, that has been shown by some to correlate to the level of impairment of the dog.
A recent study out of The Ohio State University by Dr. O'Brian et al, published in JAVMA (Sept 15, 2021), described the use of an educational 50 minute weekly class, as a means to controlling clinical progression of CDS. This is a case-control study with about 20 owner/dog pairs completing the class and 66 owner/dog pairs used as control. Scoring was performed at entrance to the study, as well as at 3, 6 and 12 months. During class the instructor spent part of the time informing the clients about a specific aspect of CDS, and the remainder of the time working on an interactive activity with the dog/owner pair geared towards cognitive enrichment and new learned tasks. The owners were asked to practice outside of class as well as in class. The most notable finding was a significant progression of clinical score, using the DISHAA scoring system, in the control group and a lack of progression in the class group. The only exception to this was the disorientation scores. These appeared to increase in the class group which, as the authors suggested, may be due to increased owner awareness by attending the class. The authors suggest that owner information, and structured interaction with the dog, is what slowed progression of all of the other markers of CDS.
What is the take away?
Well...maybe an information session (zoom or live) once monthly for all of your dogs over age 8 could increase awareness by clients and alert them to seek medical attention should signs arise. Or, maybe a senior class in your area (lead by a veterinarian or a trainer) might be the best answer for your clientele.
I hope you have a wonderful week! Please remember that I will be closed Monday-Thursday next week, with limited hours on Friday September 10th. Have a safe and happy Labor Day and Happy New Year, if you celebrate!