Just like humans, as dogs age, they benefit from being
mentally stimulated. In a recent study,
researchers in Vienna taught elderly dogs to play computer games and found that
they can help slow down mental deterioration. The scientists used touch-screen tasks
on a computer, combined with rewards, to motivate them to perform.
The study compared computer games for elderly dogs to
elderly people doing Sudoku puzzles and proposed that this could also be an
alternative to more physically demanding activities.
Physical limitations often mean that elderly dogs do not get
walked and many spend a great deal of their time sleeping. Inactivity can make
joints cease up and the resulting pain and general lack of stimulation can lead
to a general sense of apathy.
The researchers are hoping that the computer-game study
might kick-start the production of a living-room friendly alternative.
But until then, try some of these simple alternatives:
1. Re-visit some basic commands – Use a puppy training
manual and teach some simple commands. Target training is another great way of
engaging them too.
2. The prospect of getting a reward helps release feel-good
hormones. So make sure you use their favourite treat to motivate them to
perform
3. Engage all their senses to stimulate different areas of
the brain – For example snuffle mats encourage them to use their sense of smell
and touch to find hidden food
4. Ditch the food bowl. Present some of their daily food
ration in a Kong or Treat Ball so they have to work at finding it
5. Hydrotherapy can be mentally and physically stimulating
for dogs that love water. The buoyancy of the water prevents concussion on the
joints and helps build muscle. Make sure you find a pool with qualified hydro-therapists.
Also check with your vet beforehand as there are some conditions for which
swimming is not appropriate.
Applying these simple activities into an elderly dog's
routine will help create positive emotions, slow down mental deterioration and
improve quality of life.
Caroline Clark is a consultant in animal behaviour
counselling and you can find more information at
www.peteducationandtraining.co.uk
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