Do strange things happen in your house when the sun goes down?
Older dogs can be affected by something called Sundowner Syndrome.
As dogs age, they can experience symptoms of canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) also known as doggy dementia. For many of these dogs, their symptoms worsen in the early evening giving CCD its alternative name; Sundowners Syndrome.
No one knows exactly what causes Sundowners, but researchers believe it could be due to fatigue, hormonal fluctuations or vision changes as light levels drop (Sundowners tends to be worse in winter months).
Confusion, restlessness, agitation, repetitive pacing, barking for no apparent reason, irritability, or unusual neediness as night time approaches are all symptoms of Sundowner Syndrome.
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms in your senior dog and you’re concerned they might have doggy dementia, here are a few things you can do to help them:
Firstly, have a health check with your vet to rule out any underlying problems
Add Omega oils to your dog’s diet (great for the brain and our treats are full of them)
Leave the lights on at night when your dog sleeps
Go for an early evening walk
Create a routine and stick to it
Be patient and compassionate
CBD can be used as a preventative measure against dementia and has been proven to help brain function. It can ease the anxiety and stress related to dementia and can help your dog stay calm and comfortable in their senior years. Full-spectrum CBD is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which also contribute to brain health. 🤓
Our SENIOR treats in the Gizzls Botanicals range are specifically formulated for mature dogs, to keep them healthy and well as they enter their senior years. We've added Rhodiola to the Senior treats – an amazing adaptogen that aids with cognitive function and boost immunity.
We’re here to help. If you’d like to know more about how our treat and oil ranges can help your senior dog, please get in touch.