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My old dog shows dementia signs. How can I ensure her quality of life?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Poodle | Female | spayed | 25 lbs

I think that my 10-year-old dog is getting dementia. How can I tell if she still has quality of life?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 22nd, 2018

Dementia is easily treated. You should make an appointment with your vet to rule out other diseases. Should the diagnosis be that Betsey suffers from dementia (typical signs are pacing at night, crying, not knowing where she is , needing you to "save" her from loneliness), there is a medication that can be given which will alleviate all those signs. The medication is called Selegiline (generic name) or brandname Anipryl. In the meantime you can leave a small lamp on at night, and leave the radio on(unless she is deaf). That often helps, too.

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