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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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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.