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Study links mental decline with other conditions in dogs
The researchers gathered information on 804 senior dogs.

Researchers find strong correlation with musculoskeletal-neurological conditions.

A new study has looked at the links between canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome and other medical conditions in senior dogs.

The research revealed a strong correlation between increased cognitive impairment and musculoskeletal and neurological problems in older dogs.

The study, conducted by scientists from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the University of Milan, also found a moderate correlation between cognitive decline and metabolic and digestive disorders.

The findings were based on information about 804 dogs of various breeds, all in the last 25 per cent of their expected lifespan, collected via an online survey. Cognitive impairments were evaluated using the Canine Cognitive Assessment Scale and owners were asked about behaviour changes, body condition score and veterinary diagnoses.

The researchers used this information to look at four major types of conditions: musculoskeletal-neurological, digestive, metabolic, and dermatological.

Despite finding correlation between cognitive dysfunction and the other medical conditions, the study found a weak positive correlation between cognitive decline and dermatological symptoms.

Because of the nature of the survey, it was not possible to determine any causality between the different medical problems studied. However, the researchers suggest, based on the findings, that dogs which show signs of cognitive behaviour should be screened for other conditions, especially musculoskeletal disorders.

Rosalind Wrightson, one of the authors of the study, said: “As dogs age, they can develop ill health in the mind and body, but little is known of whether there is any relationship between the two in older dogs.

“Our dog owners’ survey indicates that there is a strong connection between mental and physical conditions in these animals and highlights the need for vets who are treating for one to be aware of the other.”
 
The study was published in the journal Animals.

 

Image (C) Shutterstock

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.