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Guardians' perceptions of caring for a dog with canine cognitive dysfunction
Tracey L Taylor1, Bradley P Smith2, Susan J Hazel1
1Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
The Veterinary Record
|July 28, 2023
Summary
Caring for senior dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) significantly increases guardian burden. Early diagnosis and treatment of CCD in dogs could improve canine welfare and reduce caregiver stress.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Animal Behavior
- Gerontology
Background:
- Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in senior dogs.
- Diagnosing CCD is challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other age-related conditions.
- The caregiving experience for senior dogs, with or without CCD, is under-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the burden of care experienced by guardians of senior dogs.
- To identify factors associated with the burden of care in dogs with CCD.
- To explore the qualitative experiences of caregivers for senior dogs with CCD.
Main Methods:
- An online survey utilizing a mixed-methods design was administered.
- Validated tools measured CCD severity and guardian burden of care.
- Qualitative data were collected through open-ended questions; statistical analysis used a general linear model.
Main Results:
- Sixteen percent of guardians reported a clinically significant burden of care.
- Factors influencing burden included CCD severity, dog's medication status, and guardian/household demographics.
- Few CCD-diagnosed dogs received specific CCD medications; euthanasia and strong attachment were key themes.
Conclusions:
- The presence of CCD substantially increases the burden of caring for senior dogs.
- Enhanced veterinary attention and pharmacological interventions for CCD could improve canine welfare.
- Reducing CCD clinical signs may alleviate significant caregiver burden.
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