Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome - What is It?

Canine cognitive syndrome (CCS) is a common age-related condition that affects the brain of dogs, causing cognitive decline and behavioral changes. It is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, but not exactly the same. CCS can affect dogs of any breed, but it is more common in older dogs, usually starting around nine years of age or older.

CCS is caused by degenerative changes in the brain that impair the function of neurons, the cells that transmit information throughout the body. One of these changes is the accumulation of a protein called beta-amyloid, which forms plaques that interfere with neuronal communication. Another change is the loss of brain volume and weight due to neuronal death and reduced blood flow.

The signs of CCS may vary from dog to dog, but they can be grouped into four categories: disorientation, interaction, sleep, and house-soiling. These are also known as DISH:

- Disorientation: Dogs with CCS may get lost in familiar places, wander aimlessly, stare into space, get stuck in corners, or have difficulty finding food or water bowls.

- Interaction: Dogs with CCS may show changes in their social behavior, such as being more clingy or aloof, not recognizing familiar people or animals, or becoming more irritable or aggressive.

- Sleep: Dogs with CCS may have altered sleep patterns, such as sleeping more during the day and being restless or vocal at night.

- House-soiling: Dogs with CCS may lose their house-training skills and urinate or defecate indoors, even when they have access to the outdoors.

CCS is diagnosed based on the presence of these signs and ruling out other possible causes, such as pain, arthritis, vision or hearing loss, infections, tumors, or other systemic diseases. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend blood and urine tests or imaging tests to check for other conditions.

There is no cure for CCS, but there are ways to manage it and improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. Treatment may include:

- Diet: Some prescription diets are specially formulated to support brain health and function in dogs with CCS. They contain antioxidants, fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

- Medication: Some drugs may help improve cognitive function and behavior in dogs with CCS by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, in the brain. These drugs include selegiline (Anipryl), propentofylline (Vivitonin), and nicergoline (Ergoloid).

- Supplements: Some supplements may have beneficial effects on brain health and function in dogs with CCS. These include omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), phosphatidylserine (CogniCare), SAMe (Novifit), antioxidants (Neutricks), and CBD oil.

- Environmental enrichment: Providing mental stimulation and physical activity for dogs with CCS can help slow down cognitive decline and improve behavior. This can include playing games, learning new tricks, exploring new places, interacting with other dogs or people, and providing toys or puzzles.

- Behavior modification: Using positive reinforcement techniques and avoiding punishment can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs with CCS. It can also help reinforce desired behaviors and discourage unwanted ones. For example, rewarding dogs for using a designated indoor potty area can help with house-soiling issues.

CCS is a progressive disease that worsens over time, but with early intervention and proper management, dogs can live longer and happier lives with their owners.

Recommended: This is a top pick by ConsumerLab that is a scientifically based testing organization. Their complaint is that many of the products they have tested that are on the market do not contain the amounts of  omega-3 that the label states. 

References:

[1] Cognitive dysfunction syndrome | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/cognitive-dysfunction-syndrome

[2] Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs - Veterinary Partner - VIN

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=9773661

[3] Canine cognitive dysfunction - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canine_cognitive_dysfunction

To Pluck or Not to Pluck? That is the Important Question!

What are the pros and cons of plucking dogs ears? 

 If you have a dog with long, floppy ears, you may have heard about ear plucking. Ear plucking is the practice of removing the hair from the ear canal of your dog, usually with tweezers or a special tool. Some groomers and veterinarians recommend ear plucking for certain breeds, such as poodles, cocker spaniels, and bichon frises, to prevent ear infections and improve air circulation. 

But is ear plucking really necessary and beneficial for your dog? Here are some pros and cons of ear plucking to help you decide. Pros of ear plucking: - 

- Ear plucking may reduce the risk of ear infections by removing the hair that can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria in the ear canal. 

- Ear plucking may improve the ventilation and airflow in the ear canal, which can help keep the ears dry and cool. 

- Ear plucking may make it easier to examine and clean the ears, as well as apply medication if needed. - Ear plucking may prevent matting and tangling of the hair in the ear canal, which can cause discomfort and irritation. 

Cons of ear plucking: 

- Ear plucking can be painful and stressful for your dog, especially if done improperly or without anesthesia. 

- Ear plucking can cause inflammation and irritation of the skin in the ear canal, which can increase the risk of infection and make the ears more sensitive. 

- Ear plucking can damage the hair follicles and cause ingrown hairs, cysts, or tumors in the ear canal. - Ear plucking can remove the natural protection that the hair provides against foreign objects, insects, and parasites. 

The bottom line: Ear plucking is not a one-size-fits-all solution for dogs with long, floppy ears. Some dogs may benefit from ear plucking, while others may not. The best way to decide whether to pluck your dog's ears or not is to consult with your veterinarian or groomer. They can assess your dog's ear health and recommend the best course of action for your dog. Remember that ear plucking is not a substitute for regular ear care. You should always check your dog's ears for signs of infection or irritation and clean them as needed with a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls or gauze.

Recommended: Zymox is the best ear cleaner I have found that is available over-the-counter. I use it between trips to the groomer and between ear plucks.  

Are Plug-ins and Diffusers Safe to Use Around Pets?

If you love using plug-ins and diffusers to make your home smell nice, you may wonder if they are safe for your furry friends. You don't want to harm your dog or cat with something that is supposed to improve your well-being. Unfortunately, the answer is not so simple. Depending on the type and ingredients of the product you use, plug-ins and diffusers can pose various risks to your pet's health.

Some of the common dangers of plug-ins and diffusers for pets are:

- Toxicity: Some of the chemicals used in plug-ins and diffusers, such as artificial fragrances, ethanol, phenols, and terpenes, can be toxic to pets if they inhale, ingest, or come into contact with them. These chemicals can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, tremors, seizures, liver damage, or even death. Cats are especially sensitive to these chemicals because they lack an enzyme that helps them metabolize them.

- Irritation: Even if the product is not toxic, it can still irritate your pet's eyes, nose, throat, skin, or respiratory tract. This can lead to sneezing, coughing, itching, redness, swelling, or inflammation. Some pets may also develop allergic reactions or asthma attacks from exposure to plug-ins and diffusers.

- Fire hazard: Plug-ins and diffusers that use electricity or heat can pose a fire hazard if they malfunction, overheat, or are knocked over by curious pets. This can result in burns, smoke inhalation, or property damage.

How to use plug-ins and diffusers safely around pets

If you want to use plug-ins and diffusers in your home, you should take some precautions to protect your pets from harm. Here are some tips to follow:

- Choose natural essential oils over synthetic fragrances. Natural essential oils are safer than synthetic fragrances, which can contain harmful chemicals. However, not all essential oils are safe for pets either. Some of the oils that are toxic to pets include tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, citrus, cinnamon, clove, and pine. Always check the label of the product before using it and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure.

- Use plug-ins and diffusers sparingly and in well-ventilated areas. Don't overuse plug-ins and diffusers or leave them on for too long. Use them only when you need them and turn them off when you leave the room. Make sure the room has adequate ventilation and air circulation to prevent the accumulation of harmful vapors. Avoid using plug-ins and diffusers in small or enclosed spaces where your pet spends a lot of time.

- Keep plug-ins and diffusers out of reach of your pets. Place plug-ins and diffusers high up or in secure locations where your pets can't access them. Don't let your pets lick, chew, or play with them. Keep the cords and wires away from your pets as well. If your pet accidentally ingests or comes into contact with the product, contact your veterinarian immediately.

- Monitor your pet for any signs of adverse effects. Observe your pet closely for any changes in their behavior or health after using plug-ins and diffusers. If you notice any signs of toxicity or irritation, such as vomiting, drooling, difficulty breathing, tremors, seizures, itching, redness, swelling, or inflammation, stop using the product and seek veterinary attention right away.

Plug-ins and diffusers can make your home smell nice, but they can also pose serious risks to your pet's health. By following these tips, you can use them safely around your pets and enjoy their benefits without compromising their well-being.

What is the Brain Activity in a Dog after it is Triggered?

Dogs are amazing animals that can form strong bonds with humans and other animals. They can also display a range of emotions, such as joy, fear, anger, and sadness. But what happens in their brains when they are triggered by something that causes them stress or anxiety?

Triggering is a term that refers to the activation of a negative emotional response in an animal or a person due to a stimulus that reminds them of a past traumatic event. For example, a dog that was abused by a previous owner may be triggered by loud noises, certain smells, or specific objects. When a dog is triggered, it may show signs of distress, such as panting, trembling, barking, growling, or hiding.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can be measured by using electroencephalography (EEG), which records the electrical signals of the brain. EEG can reveal the changes in brain waves that reflect the emotional state of the dog. Brain waves are categorized into four types: alpha, beta, theta, and delta.

Alpha waves are associated with relaxation and calmness. Beta waves are associated with alertness and concentration. Theta waves are associated with drowsiness and dreaming. Delta waves are associated with deep sleep and unconsciousness.

When a dog is triggered, its brain activity changes from a normal state of alpha and beta waves to a state of high arousal and stress, characterized by increased beta waves and decreased alpha waves. This indicates that the dog is experiencing fear, anxiety, or anger. The dog may also show increased theta waves, which indicate emotional processing and memory recall. The dog may be reliving the traumatic event that caused the triggering in the first place.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can also affect other parts of the nervous system, such as the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The ANS controls the involuntary functions of the body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and digestion. The HPA axis regulates the production and release of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline.

When a dog is triggered, its ANS activates the sympathetic branch, which prepares the body for fight or flight. The heart rate increases, the blood pressure rises, the breathing becomes faster and shallower, and the digestion slows down. The HPA axis also activates and releases cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream. These hormones increase the energy and alertness of the dog, but also suppress the immune system and impair the memory and learning abilities.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can have short-term and long-term effects on its health and behavior. In the short term, the dog may experience physical symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, or muscle pain. It may also experience psychological symptoms, such as irritability, aggression, depression, or phobias. In the long term, the dog may develop chronic stress, which can lead to various diseases and disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or cancer.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can be reduced by using various methods of intervention and prevention. Some of these methods include:

- Providing a safe and comfortable environment for the dog

- Avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggering stimuli

- Providing positive reinforcement and rewards for calm behavior

- Using desensitization and counterconditioning techniques to gradually reduce the negative association with triggering stimuli

- Using medication or supplements to reduce anxiety and stress

- Consulting a veterinarian or a behaviorist for professional advice

Triggering is a serious issue that affects many dogs and their owners. By understanding the brain activity in a dog after it is triggered, we can better help our canine companions cope with their emotions and live happier and healthier lives.

What are the Health Hazards of Plastics in Pet Toys?

Willow chewing on a Chewswild.com trachea!

If you are a pet owner, you probably want to provide your furry friend with the best toys possible. But did you know that some of the plastics used in pet toys can pose serious health risks to your pet and even to yourself? In this blog post, we will explore some of the common types of plastics found in pet toys, their potential effects on your pet's health, and how to choose safer alternatives.

One of the most widely used plastics in pet toys is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), also known as vinyl. PVC is cheap, durable, and easy to mold into various shapes and colors. However, PVC also contains harmful chemicals called phthalates, which are added to make the plastic soft and flexible. Phthalates can leach out of the plastic over time, especially when exposed to heat, sunlight, or saliva. Phthalates have been linked to various health problems, such as hormonal disruption, reproductive abnormalities, liver and kidney damage, and cancer. Phthalates can also affect humans who handle the toys or breathe in the dust from them.

Another common plastic in pet toys is polycarbonate, which is often used to make hard and clear plastic items, such as balls, bones, and chew toys. Polycarbonate contains bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that mimics estrogen and can interfere with the endocrine system. BPA can also leach out of the plastic over time, especially when heated or scratched. BPA has been associated with various health issues, such as infertility, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and breast and prostate cancer. BPA can also affect humans who touch the toys or ingest the residue from them.

So how can you protect your pet and yourself from these harmful plastics? Here are some tips to follow:

- Look for toys that are made of natural materials, such as rubber, cotton, hemp, or wood. These materials are biodegradable and do not contain toxic chemicals.

- Avoid toys that are made of soft or clear plastic, or that have a strong plastic smell. These are signs that the plastic may contain phthalates or BPA.

- Wash your hands after playing with your pet's toys, and wash the toys regularly with mild soap and water. This can help remove any dirt or residue that may contain harmful chemicals.

- Discard any toys that are damaged, broken, or worn out. These toys may release more chemicals or pose a choking hazard to your pet.

- Check the labels and packaging of the toys before buying them. Look for certifications or symbols that indicate that the toy is phthalate-free or BPA-free.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pet's toys are safe and healthy for both of you. Remember that your pet's health is in your hands, so choose wisely and play safely!

*****

I recommend chews like beef cheeks and chew treats like pig snouts from chewswild.com. Their products are all-natural, digestible, and not made of rawhide. 

This is a Playology toy I have had for about a year. It has stood the test of time and only has one end chewed off with continued use.

 

The Disabled Need Access to E-Collars. Don't Ban Them!

Today I want to talk about another controversial topic that has been in the media lately. That being the use of e-collars on dogs for training. Just so you know, in addition to working in human health, I have also studied and worked in animal health in a variety of roles. As many of you know, I am now disabled. In 2006, I purchased my first service dog. While she was not technically a service dog, she was fully trained in Schuetzen and a show dog that adapted well for what I needed her to do. At that time, I was suffering from PTSD and had extreme anxiety when leaving the house. Not only did Mira make me feel safe when I went out, but she was also my “grounder”. Basically, it means that just by her presence offered something I could hold on to and redirect my focus when my anxiety became so great I "zoned out" to what was going on around me. Just by her being there to hang on to brought me back to a “calmer” state of mind and reality.

Mira died in 2011 and since then I have not needed a psychiatric dog. However, I still have physical limitations. For one, I can’t run and when I try, I waddle like a penguin. After telling you this, I now want to explain why banning e-collars is a terrible thing. Unfortunately, if society bans them, then society is taking away one of the most “adaptive” tools a disabled person can use to train their dog. We have limitations, and those limitations make dog training hard without this tool. Think about it, many of us could not chase after a dog that gets off lead or runs into the street. With an e-collar, we certainly can train them to recall back out of harm's way. We also may not have the strength to correct unruly behavior when they are pulling on the lead.

Personally, I get a little angry when so-called experts say that the e-collar is a bad thing and bad training. Honestly, how many people have ever held an e-collar? In a superior quality e-collar, the stimulation levels go to one hundred. I almost never use anything above the level of fifteen. I have held an e-collar on that level of stimulation, and I assure you, it does not hurt. I would be curious to know what all those “experts” would say if they knew humans use TENS medical devices with the same kind of stimulation for back pain. Not only that, but most owners would never knowingly submit their animals to pain.

As far as the research about e-collars goes, the results are inconclusive. So far, there is no quality research that absolutely says it negatively affects the dog in the long term. A few years back, China et al claimed they observed negative effects. However, experts in both psychology and dog training have claimed that the study was flawed, and their claims of inhumane treatment and negative consequences could not be proven by the evidence provided from the study. The researchers had a bias against e-collar use even before the study began.

I think banning the e-collar is going to be a big mistake for many reasons. The main one is, as I have tried to express here, is for the disabled. Many disabled people cannot afford to have their animal professionally trained all the way to a service dog. Being able to use an e-collar gives them the opportunity to learn how to use the collar humanely and effectively and to continue the training themselves.

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What are the Pros and Cons of Crate Training for Dogs?

"I was trapped in my house for several days during hurricane Ian. My dog has been crate trained since I got her. I kept her secured in her crate and put her on a table so she would not get wet or drown. It was also useful because I was displaced for several months."

Crate training is a method of teaching your dog to stay in a crate or a confined space when you are not around or when you need some peace and quiet. Some people use crate training to housebreak their puppies, to prevent separation anxiety, or to manage destructive behavior. But is crate training good for your dog? Here are some pros and cons of crate training for dogs.

Pros:

- Crate training can provide your dog with a sense of security and comfort. A crate can be a safe haven for your dog, where he can relax and feel protected from loud noises, strangers, or other stressful situations. A crate can also help your dog cope with being alone, as he will associate the crate with positive experiences and rewards.

- Crate training can help you with housebreaking your puppy. A crate can teach your puppy to control his bladder and bowels, as he will not want to soil his sleeping area. A crate can also prevent your puppy from chewing on inappropriate items, such as furniture, shoes, or wires, when you are not supervising him.

- Crate training can make traveling easier for you and your dog. A crate can be a familiar and comfortable place for your dog to stay in when you are traveling by car, plane, or train. A crate can also reduce the risk of your dog escaping or getting injured during transit.

Cons:

- Crate training can be misused or abused by some owners. A crate should never be used as a punishment or a way to isolate your dog for long periods of time. A crate should also not be too small or too crowded for your dog, as this can cause physical and mental discomfort. A crate should only be used as a temporary tool, not a permanent lifestyle for your dog.

- Crate training can have negative effects on some dogs. Some dogs may develop anxiety, depression, or aggression from being crated too often or too long. Some dogs may also injure themselves by trying to escape from the crate or by chewing on the crate bars. Some dogs may also lose their social skills or their natural instincts by being crated too much.

- Crate training may not work for every dog. Some dogs may not like being confined in a crate, no matter how much you try to make it comfortable and rewarding. Some dogs may have medical conditions or special needs that make crating unsuitable or unsafe for them. Some dogs may also have traumatic experiences or phobias that make crating stressful or frightening for them.

Crate training is not a one-size-fits-all solution for every dog owner. It has its benefits and drawbacks, depending on how you use it and how your dog responds to it. Before you decide to crate train your dog, you should consider your dog's personality, needs, and preferences, as well as your own lifestyle and goals. You should also consult with a veterinarian or a professional trainer if you have any questions or concerns about crate training for dogs.

  

This is a video of my dog. She is crate trained and as you can see, she goes in voluntarily.  This is one of my first videos I have ever posted from my phone.