Category: Pets and Animals

June 14, 2023

Ayurvedic Management of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs

Abstract

Canine cognitive dysfunction is a neurodegenerative progressive disorder of an old aged dog. There are behavioral changes in the old dogs which can be due to diminished sensory capacities, decline in cognition power related to age or may be due to some underlying medical issues. Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) causes decline in cognitive abilities in dogs like awareness, perception, memory and learning. All these functions allow dogs to decide and act according to the situation.

Introduction

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) syndrome is characterized by the aging of the brain of the dog that causes decrease in awareness, abnormalities in the memory and learning abilities of the dog along with declined responses to stimuli. There occurs cognitive decline which means worsening of the signs and symptoms over the time. The symptoms of CCD in dogs are similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in humans. Pathological changes are created in the brain in case of CCD where the brain’s functioning becomes slow. Beta-amyloid accumulates in the brain of the dog leading to formation of plaques (type of protein). As the dog grows old their nerve cells die and the space left by dead cells is filled by cerebrospinal fluid. Dogs above the age of 10 years are affected by CCD. Genetic factors are known to play a role in the causation of the disease.

Canine cognitive dysfunction

AYURVEDIC ASPECT OF CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

As per the Ayurvedic concept, there are tridoshas which govern the life, i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha. Nervous system diseases like Canine cognitive dysfunction are caused due to vitiation of Vata dosha. This vitiation or imbalance of Vata dosha is caused due to the improper diet and other lifestyle issues. Also the old age is considered to be the time of Vata aggravation, hence the atrophy of the brain is common in old age be it in humans or dogs.

Symptoms

As per the Ayurvedic concept, there are tridoshas which govern the life, i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha. Nervous system diseases like Canine cognitive dysfunction are caused due to vitiation of Vata dosha. This vitiation or imbalance of Vata dosha is caused due to the improper diet and other lifestyle issues. Also the old age is considered to be the time of Vata aggravation, hence the atrophy of the brain is common in old age be it in humans or dogs.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

Most common signs and symptoms of CCD in dogs are

  • Desire to play decreases
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Restlessness or anxiety
  • Too much irritability
  • Keep of licking
  • Decreased ability to learn new things
  • Dog barks a lot
  • Disregard for previously learned house rules or tasks
  • Incapacity to follow previously known routes
  • Declined self grooming
  • Anorexia, i.e. loss of appetite
  • Incontinence of urine and stool
  • Disturbed sleep routine like sleeping during day or night waking

CAUSES OF CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

With the growing age of dogs, when they pass around 10 years of age their brain cells start to die, i.e. brain atrophy. This causes decline in brain functions. However the exact cause of Canine Cognitive dysfunction is not known but the reasons are almost similar to those in humans which causes atrophies in them.

DIAGNOSIS OF CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

A detailed history of the health of your dog to the veterinarian will help in the diagnosis of the disease. History will include nature and onset of symptoms along with any complications or unusual behavior. After history, the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination to evaluate the cognitive functions and overall health status of your dog.

TREATMENT OF CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

Traditional treatment for CCD includes lifelong support and therapy. This treatment includes medications, new toys, exercises, and making them learn new commands. All these things will help in improving your dog’s memory. Diet also plays a major role in the improvement of cell membrane health and memory. The main conventional drug used in the treatment of CCD is Anipryl, it is the same drug which is used to treat Parkinson’s disease in humans.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

Ayurvedic treatment for CCD is as per the Vata vyadhi which includes nourishing the body with oily substances (Snigdha dravya), herbs and Panchkarma (Therapeutic cleaning of body). There are many herbs and natural compounds that possess potency to balance the vitiated Vata dosha and slows down the progression of the brain atrophy. These herbal remedies also help in improving the functioning of the brain.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR CANINE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION

Planet Ayurveda is a very well known herbal pharmaceutical company that deals in the production of herbal remedies and products. These products and herbal medicines are further prescribed by experienced Ayurveda doctors of Planet Ayurveda to the patients as per the ailments. All these herbal products are purely authentic, herbal and vegetarian. They are free from chemicals, dye, preservatives, fillers, additives, colors and yeast which make them safe and effective then similar other brands products available in market. For CCD Planet Ayurveda offers a combination of herbal remedies that pacify the Vata dosha and help in slowing down the progression of disease along with improving the life quality of your dog.

Products List

  1. Neuroplan syrup
  2. Brahmi capsules
  3. Ashwagandha capsule
  4. Vrihat vatchintamani ras

Products Description

herbal-remedies-for-Canine-cognitive-dysfunction

Herbal Remedies for Canine cognitive dysfunction

1. Neuroplan syrup

This amazing herbal syrup helps in treating the nervous system disorder and here in CCD it helps to treat any underlying nervous system issue causing atrophy of brain cells. Neuroplan syrup is prepared from various herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Bhojpatra (Betula utilis), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus) etc.

Dosage- Give 10 ml of the syrup twice daily

2. Brahmi capsule

It is produced using standardized extract of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). Brahmi capsules possess many medicinal properties which helps in slowing down the progression of CCD. These capsules help in enhancing memory and learning, treating CCD and improving functioning of the brain.

Dosage- Give 2 capsules twice daily with or after meals

3. Ashwagandha capsule

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is used in standardized form to prepare these herbal capsules. Ashwagandha capsules help in fighting against the general debility caused in disease, improves sleep pattern, and gives internal strength to the dog’s body.

Dosage- Give 1 capsule twice daily with or after meals

4. Vrihat vatchintamani ras

Neurological disorders like CCD are caused due to the vitiation of Vata dosha and vrihat vatchintamani ras tablets help in balancing the dosha and slows down the progression of this nervous system disorder. These tablets are prepared using Abhrak bhasma (Calx of mica), swarna bhasma (Calx of gold), pravala bhasma (Calx of coral), rajata bhasma (Calx of silver), suta bhasma (Compound of purified and processed sulfur and mercury), loha bhasma(Calx of iron) and mukta bhasma (Calx of pearl).

Dosage- Give 1 tablet twice daily for chewing after meals.

Contact my assistant to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-5214040

CONCLUSION

Canine cognitive dysfunction is a nervous system disorder which can be managed and progression of the disease can be slowed down with the help of herbal remedies mentioned above. Also these herbal remedies can help in improving the brain functions of your dog naturally.

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June 13, 2023

How to Treat Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs Through Ayurveda

Abstract

Like humans, dogs are also vulnerable to problems in the spine. Problems associated with the spine are much more common than most dog owners may realize. Spinal problems in dogs are of various types and signs and symptoms depend on the cause and severity of the disease. This article will recapitulate spondylosis in dogs which is a common condition and may or may be a part of normal aging. In the majority of cases, spondylosis deformans is a normal part of aging and dogs do not have any outward signs at all. Below you will have a look at details of the disease condition and how to fix this issue and improve the quality of life of your dog with the help of Ayurveda.

Introduction

In dogs spondylosis is also called spondylosis deformans and is a degenerative condition of the spine that leads to the development of bone spurs along the vertebrae. Usually, aged dogs get affected with this condition but spondylosis can also happen as a result of injury. Spondylosis deformans commonly affects older dogs, as with age bones and joints have endured persistent stress that leads to degeneration and instability that leads to formation of bony spurs in order to regain stability in those areas.

In the normal spine there is an individual vertebra with space in between that consists of an intervertebral disc.  In spondylosis deformans vertebral spine is characterized by presence of bony spurs, or osteophytes along the edges of the spine. This bony spur develops in a single spot on the spine and commonly there will be multiple bony spurs in different areas of the spine. Spondylosis is a painful condition and affects the flexibility and range of motion for the dog. Spondylosis deformans most commonly occurs along the thoracic vertebrae, lumbar spine, or lumbosacral spine. Rarely, the bony spurs develop between adjacent vertebral bones and result in fusion of the vertebrae.

Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs

Causes

Spondylosis deformans is known to be a chronic condition and is related to aging. It often results as a secondary problem that is associated with degeneration of intervertebral discs. Following are the causes of spondylosis deformans in dogs:

  • Increasing age: With age the spine bears wear and tear from repeated lifetime movements and in order to compensate for the damage there is formation of bony spurs.
  • Injury: injury to the spine results in spondylosis
  • Body weight: Body weight influences the development of degenerative diseases that includes spondylosis. Increased weight will put pressure on the affected area and make it worse.
  • Genetics: The dog with certain genetic make-up is more susceptible to development of spondylosis deformans. For example German Shepherds, Boxers, or dogs having long backs are more prone to development of spondylosis deformans.

Symptoms

The dog may or may not have any sign or symptoms of spondylosis deformans. It is diagnosed incidentally. If bony spurs occur near a nerve, there can be pain. The dog may have restricted movement depending on the location of bone spurs. With the involvement of nerves there could be neurologic impairment.

Following are the signs that you should be noticed in the dog:

  • Changes in movement: Dog starts avoiding jumping or rolling over, he starts dragging hind legs due to the rigid back.
  • Changes in walk: That smooth swaying from side to side is lost; dog is not able to move back freely, and there is limping and lameness due to stiffness.
  • Changes in comfort level: Dogs become sensitive to touch on their back due to pain; this is because the bony spur puts pressure on the nerves along the spinal cord.

Prevention

In particular there is no prevention of the spondylosis deformans, but there are few things you can do to prevent the disease to certain extent.:

  • Keep your pet active and fit which is helpful in age related changes
  • Maintain a healthy weight of your dog
  • Pay attention to the nutrition and caloric requirements of your dog
  • Take your dog for  a regular walk

Diagnosis

Spondylosis is an incidental finding when X-ray is done for any other reason. Following tests are done if the dog is in pain or if there are signs of nerve damage:

  • X-ray- Bone spurs also appear in inflammatory lesions, so in order to thoroughly assess the spine, multiple radiographs may be needed to rule out other causes.
  • Myelogram- spinal fluid is injected with special dye and radiograph is taken
  • MRI

Ayurvedic treatment

Dogs are an important part of families today and owners are no less than parents to them, so it is the responsibility of parents to give their beloved dog a healthy and disease free life. People often encounter health issues of dogs but giving them right treatment is crucial and Ayurveda solves the purpose effectively. Ayurveda is a science of life, the major focus of Ayurveda is on preventive and curative healthcare. Ayurveda is also well known for Pashu Chikitsa, meaning Ayurvedic Veterinary medicine and in Atharvaveda section VI Ayurvedic Veterinary medicine has been mentioned and is being practiced long before the emergence of present day veterinary medicine. Ayurvedic herbs contain a variety of bioactive compounds and do not have any side effects and thereby keep the animal safe and healthy.

Planet Ayurveda’s Treatment

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned Ayurvedic Herbal product manufacturing company and is serving humankind in a favorable way with incredible herbal remedies. Planet Ayurveda has global reorganization for its services and efficacious results with herbal products. The products prepared by Planet Ayurveda are 100% natural, free from additives, chemicals, and preservatives. Along with the treatment of human beings, Planet Ayurveda also treats animals with its marvelous herbal remedies. Following are the various herbal remedies that are used in Spondylosis in dogs.

Herbal Remedies for Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs

Herbal Remedies for Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs

1. Yograj Guggul

Yograj guggul is a classical polyherbal formulation and is available in tablet form that contains Guggul (commifora mukul), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), Ajwain (carum copticum), Pippali (piper longum), Vidang (Embelia ribes), etc. This remedy rejuvenates and gives strength to the skeletal and neuromuscular system and is a traditional medicine for painful joints and muscles.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily

2. Joint aid plus

Joint id plus is available in capsule form and is herbal formulation that contain standard extract of Nirgundi (vitex negundo), Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Sonth (zingiber officinale), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Guggul (commiphora mukul). It is an effective problem for joint problems that helps in reducing pain and swelling. It helps the joint to regain the lost strength. The degeneration of joints as in spondylosis is effectively managed by this marvelous remedy.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily

3. Boswellia curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin contains effective anti-inflammatory ingredients like Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (curcuma longa). It promotes blood circulation to the joints hence improves joint health and improves flexibility. It gives a remarkable benefit in cases of degeneration of bones in spondylosis. Limping gait due to nerve pinching is also improved.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily

4. Ashwagandha capsules

Ashwagandha capsules are made from standard extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It is a useful remedy in debilitating conditions. It is a natural rejuvenator that helps in maintaining proper nourishment of tissues, majorly muscles and bones. It gives strength to bones and keeps the degeneration that occurs with age at bay.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily

Contact my assistant to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call +91-172-5214040

Conclusion

Spondylosis is a degenerative disease that reduces the range of motion and results in stiffness, pain and wobbly gait. This deformity affects the quality of life of your beloved pet as there are limitations to his movements. Ayurvedic remedies mentioned in the article are a boon to the spondylosis treatment for your dog and he can have a good life as these herbal remedies stop the symptoms from becoming severe and help in preventing pain. Ayurvedic herbal treatment lets you and your dog enjoy life to the fullest.

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