When Your Senior Dog Seems “Off”: Understanding Canine Dementia and How You Can Help

 As our dogs move into their golden years, many of us assume the changes we see—slower walks, more naps, shifting routines—are just part of “old age.” But sometimes what’s happening is more than simply aging: our canine companions may be showing signs of cognitive dysfunction, also known as “doggy dementia.” At Your Furry Godmothers LLC, we understand how much your senior or medically fragile pet means to you. We also understand the concern you feel when favorite behaviors fade or new challenges emerge. Let’s talk about what to look for, what it means, and how we can help your pet live well during this phase.

What is canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD)?

Much like Alzheimer’s disease in humans, CCD involves changes in the aging dog’s brain – impacting memory, awareness of surroundings, learning, and behavior.  It doesn’t appear overnight — it is typically a gradual shift.

Key signs to watch for:

• Getting lost or confused: A dog who once navigated the home easily may suddenly stall in corners, hesitate at familiar furniture, or seem unsure of where to go.

• Behavior changes: Perhaps your pet becomes unexpectedly irritable, less interested, or more clingy than before.

• Anxiety or restlessness: Night-time pacing, increased vocalization, or avoidance of hugs and quiet cuddles may show up.

• Memory and training slip-ups: A well-trained dog may forget commands, have accidents indoors, or not remember cues or routines.

• Sleep or activity shifts: More napping during the day, being awake and restless at night, or simply losing interest in favorite activities.

What to do if you see these signs:

1. Check with your vet. Because many health issues mimic cognitive dysfunction (like urinary infections, arthritis pain, sensory loss), it’s important to rule out other causes.

2. Support their environment. Keeping a predictable routine helps your pet feel secure. Minimizing obstacles and confusion in the home helps too (for example: clear pathways, consistent locations for food, water, and sleeping areas).

3. Support their environment. Keeping a predictable routine helps your pet feel secure. Minimizing obstacles and confusion in the home helps too (for example: clear pathways, consistent locations for food, water, and sleeping areas).

4. Mental & physical stimulation. Gentle walks, puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, scent games—all of these help keep the brain engaged even when movement is slower.

5. Consider diet and supplements. While there’s no cure, certain diets rich in antioxidants or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and supplements like Omega-3s, SAMe and others, may slow progression.

6. Focus on comfort and quality of life. For pets with more advanced signs, keeping them safe, comfortable, calm and loved becomes the priority. That means extra supervision, help with mobility if needed, and lots of tender care.

How Your Furry Godmothers can help your senior pet thrive:

• We specialize in caring for pets at every stage of life—including senior or medically fragile animals who need extra attention, medication administration, or slower, gentler walks.

• During home visits or overnight stays we can monitor changes in behavior (sleeping more, pacing, accidents) and alert you early.

• We’ll maintain your dog’s routine, use gentle enrichment (mental games, calm walks) and ensure comfort, whether that’s minimizing confusion at night or ensuring water and food are easily accessible.

• If changes in behavior have you worried, we can partner with your vet team to support your dog’s journey—and help you decide when it’s time to adjust care plans.

Watching your beloved dog slow down or shift in behavior can be heart-wrenching. But recognizing the signs of cognitive change early gives you the power to act — to ease anxiety, safeguard your pet’s routine, and help them feel loved and supported in this new phase. If you’ve noticed your dog acting “off,” confused, or unsettled in familiar spaces, don’t wait. Reach out, get that vet check, and plan a thoughtful approach. 

If you liked this post, check out this one about separation anxiety here.

Keeping Your Pet Fit and Happy Starts with a Healthy Weight

 

Just like us, our pets can struggle with their weight—and the truth is, those extra pounds can lead to real health problems. Carrying too much weight puts strain on their joints, heart, and lungs, increases their risk of diabetes, and can even shorten their lifespan. It’s easy to overlook a few extra pounds when your dog’s tail still wags or your cat still jumps up to the counter, but maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most loving things you can do for your furry friend.

Start by getting your pet’s ideal weight from your vet. Every breed and age is different, so a quick check-up helps you know what’s right for your pet. Once you have that number, take a good look at portion sizes. Most pet food bags list daily feeding amounts that are a bit too generous, especially for indoor pets. Measure meals carefully and skip the habit of free-feeding—leaving food out all day can make it easy for pets to overeat.

Treats are fine (we all love a good snack!), but moderation matters. Try using small, low-calorie treats or even a few pieces of their regular kibble during training or playtime. For dogs, daily walks, fetch sessions, or even a trip to the park can help burn off calories while strengthening your bond. Cats need movement too—laser pointers, feather wands, or treat puzzles can turn exercise into fun playtime.

If your pet is overweight, don’t rush it. Gradual weight loss is safer and more effective than cutting back drastically. Aim for steady, small progress and schedule weigh-ins every few weeks. Keep an eye on your pet’s energy level and attitude—most owners notice their pets become more playful and alert once they start losing weight.

Helping your pet stay healthy isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports their well-being. With consistency and a little patience, you’ll both enjoy the results: a happier, more energetic companion who’s around to love you for many years to come.

The Hidden Dangers of Pet Obesity: Healthy Weight means Happy Pet

We love to spoil our pets—extra treats, a few table scraps, maybe skipping that walk on a cold morning—but all those little indulgences can add up. Pet obesity has quietly become one of the most common and preventable health problems today. In fact, veterinarians say more than half of America’s dogs and cats are overweight or obese. That’s why National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, observed every October 8, is such an important reminder for pet parents everywhere. It’s a chance to stop, take a good look at our furry friends, and ask, “Am I helping or hurting their health?”

A few extra pounds might seem harmless, but they can have serious consequences. Overweight pets are at much higher risk for diabetes, especially cats, whose pancreas can get overworked from constantly producing insulin. Pancreatitis is another painful and dangerous condition often linked to obesity and high-fat diets. Extra weight also puts stress on your pet’s heart and joints, leading to arthritis, high blood pressure, and breathing problems—particularly in breeds with short snouts. Many pets even lose years off their lives simply because they’re carrying more weight than their bodies can handle.

The good news is that you can turn things around with a few small changes. Start by asking your vet what your pet’s ideal weight should be. Once you have that number, measure their food—don’t guess. Most pets need less than what the bag suggests, especially if they’re not very active. Replace fatty treats with healthy alternatives or even use part of their daily kibble for rewards.

Daily movement makes a huge difference. Dogs benefit from regular walks and playtime, while cats need encouragement to stay active with toys like feather wands or puzzle feeders. Gradual weight loss is safest—slow and steady wins the race here. You’ll notice your pet becoming more energetic, playful, and alert as the pounds come off.

We know how important it is to keep your pet healthy and active. Whether it’s daily walks, playtime while you’re away, or a little extra care for a senior or recovering pet, we’re here to help you keep your furry friend feeling their best. 

Why You Need to Walk Your Dog

 

Most dog owners know their pups need daily walks, but it’s easy to underestimate just how important those walks really are. For dogs, a walk isn’t just about bathroom breaks—it’s their version of exercise, exploration, and even therapy. Regular walks help keep their weight in check, build muscle tone, and strengthen their joints, which becomes even more important as dogs age. A well-exercised dog is also less likely to develop destructive habits like chewing on furniture or excessive barking because they’ve had a healthy outlet for their energy.

The benefits go beyond physical health. Walks stimulate a dog’s mind in ways that toys in the living room simply can’t. Every new scent on the grass, every sound of birds, and every passing neighbor adds variety to their day, preventing boredom and boosting their mental well-being. This mental stimulation helps reduce stress and anxiety, which is especially valuable for dogs prone to separation anxiety or high-strung personalities.

And then there’s the emotional bond. Walking together strengthens the relationship between you and your dog. The leash may connect you physically, but the shared experience of moving in rhythm, exploring together, and stopping for those curious sniff breaks builds trust and affection. Many owners even find that daily walks become one of their favorite parts of the day—a chance to unplug, get some fresh air, and enjoy a slower pace alongside their furry best friend.

So, whether it’s a quick stroll around the block or a long meander through the park, regular walks are one of the best gifts you can give your dog. They’ll be healthier, happier, and more relaxed, and you might just notice those same benefits rubbing off on you too.

Why Orange Cats Are Extra Special

 

If you’ve ever met a ginger cat, you already know they have big personalities. But did you know there’s real science behind those fiery coats? Yep, orange cats are genetically one-of-a-kind!

Here’s the scoop: researchers recently discovered that the reason orange cats exist at all comes down to a tiny twist on the X chromosome. That little quirk flips the usual cat colors from black or brown to the famous orange we all adore.

And here’s why most ginger cats are boys—males only have one X chromosome. If it carries the “orange switch,” boom—instant orange cat. Girls, on the other hand, have two X’s, so they need that orange switch on both to turn out fully ginger. If they only get it on one, you end up with those beautiful patchwork calicos and tortoiseshells. It’s the same science, just showing up in different ways.

What makes this even cooler? This trick is unique to cats. Tigers, orangutans, even redheaded humans don’t get their orange coloring the same way. Our kitties are doing their own thing.

So the next time your ginger boy sprawls across the couch acting like he owns the place, just remember—he kind of does. Science says so.

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