OVER the past 40 years, advances in veterinary medicine and superior nutrition have increased the life expectancy of dogs by more than two years.

Around 30 per cent of the nation’s canines are over eight years old and can therefore be medically classed as geriatrics (sorry guys, don’t mean to be rude!) As a result, we are seeing a marked increase in the number of age-related problems in our canine friends.

The most insidious of these, and the one that is often the most difficult for owners to appreciate, is Canine Cognitive Disorder (CCD). This is a condition that is known colloquially as senility or dementia and it is very similar to the human disorder, Alzheimer’s disease.

Its symptoms can be subtle or very marked and it is progressive in nature.

Many owners will simply put down changes in their dog’s behaviour to old age but CCD is not a product of the normal ageing process.

Scientist now believe that unstable oxygen molecules in the body, named ‘free radicals’ (no, not the Taliban) attack the cells, causing a loss of function and ultimately the death of the cell.

Since the brain has only very limited powers to repair or regenerate damaged cells, it is particularly vulnerable to these toxic free radicals. When it is affected, CCD results.

The symptoms are not specific. Sufferers are often vaguely dull, depressed and suddenly disinterested in playing or interacting with those around them.

They are often confused, staring into space or at walls for ages, or they may wander aimlessly around the house.

They frequently sleep during the day but are restless at night; pacing the house continuously or howling as if in pain.

Patients affected by CCD will often forget previously learned behaviour, such as toilet training, the route they take on a regular walk or they will appear to disobey commands.

Some owners feel like they are living with a stranger in the house, while others merely believe their pet has become old and cantankerous.

There is no cure but new treatments can greatly increase the quality of life of dogs with CCD. We have recently started altering the diet of these patients. Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d contains antioxidants which combat the effects of free radicals and we have had some simply startling results.

Dogs that previously were virtual zombies have been transformed back to playful pets. Their owners, who, like us, were sceptical of the treatment, have been amazed.

Drug medication can also be useful. Selegiline, which helps correct chemical imbalances in the brain, is non-addictive and can reduce the confusion and anxiety experienced by senile dogs.

It will also inhibit degradation of the brain cells and boost neurotransmitter levels.

Propentofylline works in a different way. It increases the oxygenation of tissue, especially the brain, heart and muscle. Both these substances can usually be given along with the other commonly used geriatric prescriptions, like heart and arthritis drugs. Additionally, Aktivait can counteract the effects of free radicals. The sooner the dog is treated, the better the response.

But you can’t treat Canine Cognitive Disorder if you don’t diagnose it. Just how is your old dog?