We are all getting older every day, much as I hate to admit it, and like us, as your dog ages, you might notice some senior moments. Our pets are living longer due to improvements in breeding, diet and medical care, which in turn is increasing the occurrence of cognitive decline, similar to canine Alzheimer’s, in our pets.

So, what does that look like in our canine companions?

Your dog might stare off into space, get lost in familiar places or stuck in corners.

They might sleep all day and pace restlessly all night. Some dogs get anxious or clingy, while others just seem less interested in life, unwilling to play or go for walks.

Accidents in the house can happen, and you might catch them staring at walls or floors like they're solving a mystery.

There may be multiple factors, or co-morbidities occurring at once, such as deafness, or arthritic pain which can cloud the issue of cognitive decline.

Vets will likely implement a holistic approach to their treatment plans, including medicines, mobility support, weight control, physio and laser.

It is important to address the whole patient and make their geriatric care specific to their best quality of life and home environment.

Environmental enrichment is key – think puzzle toys and scent games to keep their minds sharp, in the same way that crosswords and jigsaws help us as we age.

Sticking to a routine can reduce stress as familiar patterns increase a sense of wellbeing and relaxation.

This is especially true when leaving your older pet when you are on holiday, or when you travel with them.

Make their space comfy with orthopaedic beds and with easy access to food and water.

Get them moving with gentle walks or low-impact exercise but leave plenty of time for naps in the day and restful sleep at night.

Show them love ― extra cuddles and patience go a long way.

It’s not just dogs that show cognitive decline; our older cats can also be affected.

Symptoms include forgetting to finish a meal, asking to be let in our out repeatedly, staring off into space or increased vocalisation.

It is important to have your older pets checked by a vet at least every six months so that decline can be monitored and issues addressed quickly.

Going to the vet can be stressful for cats so ask for a home visit to help them stay calm.

The love, care, and attention we give to the elderly is a measure of our own humanity, and that includes our pets, who have given us a lifetime of happiness.

Let’s treat them kindly in return and help them navigate through the fog of cognitive decline.

• Lucy Richardson graduated from Edinburgh University in 2005. She started CedarTree Vets in August 2012 with her husband, Mark. They live at the practice with their two children, Ray and Stella, and their dog and two cats. She is also the FEI national head veterinarian for Bermuda