It’s Raining Cats and Dogs

Why did the dog sit in the shade? Because he didn't want to become a hot dog.

What do you get when you cross a dog with a phone? A golden receiver.

Why was the cat sitting on the computer? It wanted to keep an eye on the mouse.

All kidding aside, the relationship between a person with dementia and an animal can be remarkable. Petting or even being close to a pet can trigger the release of endorphins, chemical brain transmitters often referred to as the “feel good hormone,” which have mood enhancing and calming effects.

Today we’ll uncover what animals do to, and for, people with dementia, the science behind the pet-owner connection, and breeds to consider.

We've all heard “A is dog is man's best friend” and ask any pet owner and you'll probably get a resounding agreement. But it doesn't always involve a dog. For many the devotion may involve a mouse, or other animals like fish or gerbils.

In addition to companionship, which is very important, the anxiety and agitation that those with dementia frequently exhibit is reduced.

Pets decrease the isolation and loneliness an individual with dementia feels whether they live alone or are very withdrawn.

For those of us with communication problems that keep us quiet, talking about and interacting with pets is a great icebreaker for conversations with others. Owning a pet demands some additional physical labor which benefits health and mobility. Individuals with dementia need structure. Caring for a pet can add to the daily routine in a purposeful way. For example, maybe feeding Spot can come between eating breakfast and brushing of teeth on a daily basis.

Interaction with dogs, cats and other animals often remind us of fond memories while the experience stimulates cognitive function.

Petting and grooming enhance a sensory awareness of touch persons with dementia seldom experience. Walking a dog or even reaching out to pet a rabbit can foster movement to improve motor skills, balance and coordination.

Another benefit is the reduction of sundowning events. Sundowning  is a condition that occurs in some people with dementia that begins late afternoon to early evening. It often entails confusion, anxiety and agitation. Symptoms may worsen into the night and interfere with sleep. Some experience hallucinations or increased delusions.

A known science behind pet ownership involves serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters which are released into the dendrites of the brain cells then reaching the probability of providing a sense of relaxed well-being for the pet owner.

So are you thinking about a pet? Dogs are often the first animal that comes to mind when considering owning a pet, but also available are parrots, hamsters, horses and a myriad of others. Ask yourself what are the capabilities of the person with dementia? How much work and responsibility can he put  into pet ownership? If you stay there, will you live with the commitment if he ceases to tire of the responsibility?.

If you're considering a companion, give the issue time to live its life to have the honest feelings emerge. At least sleep on it or maybe wait a couple days before you make a decision. If you decide to go ahead with it, review the task again in detail especially if it's a dog or a cat make sure to purchase a leash, dog bowls, food and plenty of treats (good to use in training). Be ready to take the fellow out as soon as you get home.

A different animal? You'll need kitty litter and box for a cat, food and the rest of the supplies you were instructed by the previous owner. I know little about the other animals. You should be told what you need by the seller. If not, ask. I recommend you read up on the critter before you buy. 

I do know about dogs though. My research in a dog breed for a person with dementia showed a number of choices. I’ll provide you with some of them.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel came up first on a number of the sites. Most said this breed is loyal, playful and a good companion. It's also gentle and affectionate.

Poodles, especially toy and mini. Chewy said the mini was joyful, intelligent, adaptable and has a “spunky personality.” It’s also hypoallergenic. This dog does need lots of exercise and mental stimulation.

The American Kennel Club said the toy poodle is a confident, easily trainable, and athletic. And AI Overview adds intelligent and affectionate.  Both the toy and mini need a lot of physical activity and intellectual stimulation.

Shin Tau is an outgoing, loving, playful dog. The American Kennel Club says they enjoy being close to their owner. As a popular toy dog, they make great partners.

Spruce Pets says the Bichon Frisé loves people and he is hypoallergenic. This dog has long, curly white hair. Others report he is cheerful, eager to please and easy to train.

I’m going to put the cock-a-poo next. This pup is part cocker spaniel and part poodle.  I know him the best as we owned one.  Spanky was full of energy as a puppy.  I remember taking him to the apartment building next to ours where they had a huge, grassy front yard and letting him run circles around me as I held the leash in hand. He loved car rides and drive-throughs where he always copped a treat. He was a real jokester. In the summer while we cooked, he’d slip into the kitchen and pull down our shorts.

Adopt a Pet describes the cock-a-poo as being intelligent, affectionate and friendly. They’re supposed to be easy to train. With Spanky it wasn’t so. (It could’ve been the trainer’s fault.) They’re also hypoallergenic.

If you’re interested in a large dog, the golden retriever is one of the top choices.  He’s affectionate, loyal, eager to please and easy to train.

The Labrador retriever, one of the most popular breeds in the world, is similar but needs more mental and physical stimulation.

As far as cats go look look for a creature that's kind.

The  Persian blue was mentioned as the most popular cat. It likes to be petted and held.  This cat comes in three shades of bright median, grayish blue and dark indigo. The kitty purrs when happy and meows when discontent.

The Rag-doll is calm and friendly and is a lap cat . It has a bicolor coat.

The Persian is affectionate, sweet and soothing to a person with dementia. It is a long haired cat.  A rounded face and a short snout are typical.

The Siamese breed is social and vocal, interactive for those needing and lacking in social contact with others. It’s a good cat for emotional support.

TheI Burmese cat is a good companion cat, supportive and likes to be around  people. It’s fun to be around so be ready to train, play games with and have interactive toys.

As you study different breeds of cats or dogs, or go to a rescue mission, make sure the pet fits the dementia individual.  You don’t want an overactive dog with a middle phase person with dementia. Take into account long hair vs. short and the grooming involved. Also, look at the size and age. An older is less lively and a puppy is vivacious and high-maintenance.

The love and companionship of a pet can brighten the lives of people with dementia. Part two will come in two weeks covering other animals, pet therapy , service dogs, how to handle specific situations and more. That will be out on Monday, July 21st.

Until next Monday, or in the chat. Join us in the chat “office hour” which is on Saturdays, 2:00-3:00. I look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for being here.

Judi

“If you want a friend, get a dog.  If you want a heart to love you, get a  cat.”      Regina Brett, journalist and motivational speaker