Quarter of dog owners unaware that their pets can develop dementia

More than one in four dog owners do not know their pet can develop age-related dementia, new research reveals.

A study of 2,000 owners, commissioned by Vets4Pets to mark its inaugural Pet Dementia Day, found many are unaware of early indicators such as confusion, anxiety, restlessness, and a decreased desire to play. Indeed, half would not be confident identifying symptoms in their pet.

The research reveals 62% of owners would put any significant behavioural changes in their pet down to them getting old.

More than half of respondents said they would do whatever it takes to support their pet if it got diagnosed with dementia.

Dr Huw Stacey, Director of Clinical Services at Vets4Pets, said: “Sadly, age-related dementia is a degenerative disease that can affect many of our beloved pets during their lifespan and we believe there could be close to one million senior cats and dogs in the UK living with the condition undiagnosed.

“We want to help raise awareness of the condition in cats and dogs so that pet owners feel more confident in knowing what symptoms to look out for, as with early diagnosis and the right treatment there are many ways pet owners can help to alleviate the symptoms for their pets. Both improvements in diet and increased mental stimulation can help to improve brain health, which can slow the progression of pet dementia, and there are specific medications and supplements that can also help.”

The research shows that 37% of respondents have had at least one dog diagnosed with dementia, with more than a third of these diagnoses coming about after they took their pet to the vet for what they suspected was something else.

Stacey added: “While there are many things we should be doing at home to keep our pets happy and healthy – such as making sure they have enough exercise, and a safe, comfortable environment to live in – routine check-ups are just as important if you suspect that your pet could be suffering from dementia. Our ultimate goal is to help pet owners to care for their pets so they live a longer, healthier and happier life.”

Vets4Pets have created an online dementia symptom checkers for dogs.