dog question

I know we have a lot of dog people on here too so I'm going to pick your brains.  I'm having trouble with my "oldest child" lately.  She's a black lab going on 13 years old.  She is the most loyal farm dog, pet, and companion I've ever had.  We don't would never say we own her,  she is part of our family.  Here's my problem...she's become "hearing impaired" the hearing maybe gone and that's ok because she's not in any pain and gets around good.  The big problem is in the past 2 weeks she's become a little disoriented.  She's never been tied up or kenneled in her life except during deer season for a couple days (due to following the guys out to the woods) and she's started "wandering".  My question to all of you....can a dog get demetia just like humans can? (dog) (dog) (dog)

My daughter in law's dog recently began to stumble and act disoriented. Her vet said that it was most likely a mild stroke. She is improving.

justme said:

I know we have a lot of dog people on here too so I'm going to pick your brains.  I'm having trouble with my "oldest child" lately.  She's a black lab going on 13 years old.  She is the most loyal farm dog, pet, and companion I've ever had.  We don't would never say we own her,  she is part of our family.  Here's my problem...she's become "hearing impaired" the hearing maybe gone and that's ok because she's not in any pain and gets around good.  The big problem is in the past 2 weeks she's become a little disoriented.  She's never been tied up or kenneled in her life except during deer season for a couple days (due to following the guys out to the woods) and she's started "wandering".   My question to all of you....can a dog get demetia just like humans can? (dog) (dog) (dog)

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There is evidence that dogs can get something like dementia and yes there are drugs for it - take her to a vet who is up to date 

Sounds like a possible stroke, but if she means that much to you I would take her to a vet. You might have to keep her locked up when you are not at home to prevent her from wondering off and getting killed.   

Yes-dogs do get dementia. My 14.5 year old Australian Shepherd has gotten more and more disoriented over the past year or so.  She is a "house dog" and has her daily routine.  She gets up in the morning, goes out, comes back in and eats then goes with me to feed--by mid morning she's back in the house to take a nap--after lunch I get her back up to go outside and she usually goes with me around the farm until time to feed her again.  She does well in this routine, but paces aimlessly if I take her to my parents house  or somewhere else outside of her normal schedule/areas.  As others have said, there are drugs to help with this and they really help some dogs and others, not so much.  You should talk to your vet about them.  Unfortunately, with dementia they require alot more attention (much like when they were puppies!).  Just like in people, the very young and very old require more supervision.  But, I am fortunate my Sam has lived a long and healthy life!

my aunt's 15 year old lab has just started doing the same.  she has spells but always makes it home.  I would follow the others' advice and see a vet though

Thank you everyone....We are to go to the vet at 1:00 today.  Say a little prayer for me.  She took a bad turn last night and I don't really think she'll make it until then. 

(angel) (dog) (angel)

Reds waiting for her.

Funny....that's what I told her

I hope all turns out well for both you and her, over the years I have had to say good bye to several good dogs (most of them labs) It never gets any easier for me, but I would never want to not have a dog around, that is for sure. (probably why we have 5)

My thoughts are with you today.

Pat

Thanks everyone...I had Chubs put down today.  Hardest thing I've ever done, but I know its for the best.

Here's to my best pal, friend, babysitter of an ornery boy....cheers my friend! <beer>

Ohh, so sorry to hear that  :'(  My thoughts are with you and your family today!

:'( RW

said a prayer for you !