I know that Opie is beginning to exhibit some of the signs of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) that many aging dogs develop as their brain ages. The symptoms are described extensively in the Proceedings of the Southern European Veterinary Conference in 2008. This document identifies (CDS) as senility. The four categories of behavioral changes that can be associated with senility are Disorientation, Interacts Less, Sleep Patterns, House Training or what the paper calls the DISH System. I know that Opie does not sleep as soundly during the night and she seems to become disoriented in situations where she would have normally adapted previously. From reading this paper and other research articles, people should have their dog checked for other causes of such behavior. The DVM Magazine provides evidence that diet and mental stimulation can help manage canine brain aging. Please read both of these articles so that you can be a better caregiver to your aging canine and a better consumer of veterinary and alternative care services. I know that the quality of the rest of Opie’s life is more important to me than how long I have her as my best friend and guardian.