27/05/2026
One of the fascinating lectures Michelle and Lois watched at VOACON last week was on Canine Cognitive Dysfunction.
CCD is a neurodegenerative condition — progressive, but absolutely modifiable. Just like humans with Alzheimer’s, dogs benefit hugely from early recognition, structured routines, enrichment, and multimodal support. Most owners mistake the early signs for “just getting old”.
Evidence supports:
• Diet & antioxidants
• Exercise & hydrotherapy
• Cognitive enrichment
• Medications
• Multimodal support
(Ref: Dr Amy Watson Doyle, VOACON)
🔍 Early signs are EASY to miss:
• Slightly reduced responsiveness
• Mild disorientation in familiar places
• Changes in sleep–wake cycles
• Owners often say “It’s just old age”
But early intervention slows progression.
🧠 CCD vs Pain/OA
While pain and sensory loss can mimic CCD, these signs strongly point to cognitive decline:
• Spatial disorientation — getting lost in rooms, staring at walls
• Loss of learned behaviours — forgetting commands, housetraining lapses
• Night-time worsening — pacing, crying, restlessness
• Altered activity patterns
💧 Why Hydrotherapy Helps Dogs With CCD
Hydrotherapy is a perfect fit for cognitive support:
• Low impact, regular exercise
• Predictable routines (reduces anxiety)
• Social interaction
• Structured cognitive tasks
• Supports joint comfort for older dogs
• Enhances circulation and neuroplasticity
🐟 Nutritional Support That Matters
• Vitamins E, C, β carotene and selenium help reduce oxidative stress, a key driver of neurodegeneration.
• Antioxidants support neuronal health and slow cognitive decline.
• MCT supplementation provides an alternative energy source for ageing brains.
• Omega 3 (EPA/DHA) reduces neuroinflammation and supports synaptic function. It also offers mild anti inflammatory benefits for dogs with OA.
If you’re noticing subtle changes in your older dog:
👉 Speak to your vet as soon as possible
👉 Start hydrotherapy early — to help slow progression
👉 Begin Omega 3 support (available at Aquatic Canine Therapy)
📞 01635 521915
🌐 aquaticcaninetherapy.co.uk
✉ [email protected]
