Generally, cognitive health is a blanket term that refers to an individual’s ability to successfully translate brain signals into the mental and motor processes that facilitate standard adult functioning. This encompasses everything that the brain does—from regulating emotion to enabling us to move, breathe and learn new things. While the constituent components of cognitive health are not easily separated from each other, different specialists tend to focus on specific clusters of functioning. In the case of cognitive decline, and in contrast to mental health (feelings and behaviors), research is primarily interested in the objective mechanics of the mind-body link, considering processes such as speech, memory, coordination, motor functioning and the ability to count. When the breakdown of these abilities reaches a certain degree of severity, doctors will diagnose the individual with dementia.  
 
Dementia is a symptom of many disorders, the most prominent of which is Alzheimer’s, a disease that changes portions of brain tissue and weakens vital connections to other parts of the body. Although dementia and Alzheimer’s are often used interchangeably, it’s important to understand that the former is actually a symptom of the latter, and many other factors can influence the development of dementia.  ​

Patients afflicted with dementia, regardless of its source, often see a major decline in memory functioning, preventing them from recalling essential details about their lives. This is probably the dimension of the disease most prevalent in popular consciousness, frequently appearing in films, television shows and other expressions of culture. What begins as a pattern of frequently misplacing important items might soon advance to a point at which the individual no longer recognizes their loved ones, or place of residence, becoming confused and frightened by what they perceive as the presence of strange people in strange surroundings. As you’d expect, this is a harrowing experience for both the affected individual and their caregiver. In the most severe, yet tragically common, cases, the lack of basic cognitive functioning leads to premature death as the disease weakens the sufferer against other harmful health conditions and renders them unable to care for themselves. Currently, as many as 1 in 3 seniors will die from Alzheimer’s, a number greater than breast and prostate cancer combined.  

Not all forms of cognitive degeneration will appear so severe, and in many cases the general loss of functioning occurs gradually, beginning with what experts call Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD). SCD precipitates the same cluster of symptoms as full-blown dementia, but with much less severity. As such, it often precedes a more serious diagnosis, and can act as a warning system, enabling patients and doctors to identify the potential problem in advance and implement preventative measures. The infographic below lists some of the early warning signs of cognitive decline. ​

Recent studies suggest that over 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s. Worldwide, experts fear the total number of people afflicted by some kind of dementia will rise from 57 million (measured in 2019) to 153 million (predicted for 2050). These already staggering numbers are expected to grow further as life expectancies increase, and more people age into an at-risk demographic.  
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In 2019 alone, cognitive decline cost global economies $1.3 trillion, with 50% of this attributed to the cost of caring for the afflicted. These costs are spread across society, absorbed by both private individuals caring for their families directly (or paying for an external form of care), and public health institutions and initiatives, already struggling within the budgetary limitations of their respective governments. Ultimately, patients suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia are not easily managed. They require an average of 5 hours daily care, and many need to be closely monitored to mitigate the risk of harm to themselves or others. It is clear that preventative measures are urgently needed, beginning with an understanding of the disease and those it affects. ​

There is much work to be done before we have a complete understanding of what might prevent various forms of dementia, but both existing data on possible causes, and several new studies, bode well for pet owners. Amongst other things, doctors advise those at risk to keep physically active, maintain social and community connections, and regularly stimulate their brain by trying new activities and learning new things. All these are habits that come naturally to pet owners. Walking a dog, for example, gets the individual moving, while interactions with other pet owners forge and strengthen community bonds. Even visits to the vet, while stressful, can help individuals stay connected to systems of empathy and support. 
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Pet ownership also involves the kind of basic brain activity that strengthens cognitive functioning against decline. Keeping any kind of animal necessitates some kind of schedule, requiring the owner to remain organized as they cover grooming, feeding and other pet care essentials. In these cases, being able to remember what to do and when becomes essential, working out the memory “muscle” and guarding it against atrophy. Animal ownership might even involve a degree of learning, as the individual familiarizes themselves with the particulars of their pet's species or breed. 
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Finally, as researchers see an increasing link between loneliness and dementia, the mere presence of another living creature in the home becomes an invaluable preventative measure. Many elderly pet owners describe talking to their pets, and openly sharing their troubles and concerns. Such carers report feeling a sense of sympathy and understanding from their animal, coupled with an attitude of complete non-judgement; pets provide a near perfect neutral sounding board for their owner’s troubles.  ​

For years, the above observations remained mostly speculative, beginning anecdotally with pet owners eagerly espousing the many ways in which their animals positively influence their mental and physical health. In recent years, as our overall understanding of both the human brain and dementia have evolved, researchers are beginning to examine the possible benefits of pet ownership in a more systematic way. They have become increasingly able to back up their theories with hard data, taking common claims from speculation to somewhere closer to fact. In particular, the findings of a new study correlate pet ownership with higher levels of cognitive functioning, especially in seniors who live alone. 
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Considering other factors that might have affected the participant’s cognitive health, this project “showed that long-term pet owners, on average, had a cognitive composite score that was 1.2 points higher at six years compared to non-pet owners”  (American Academy of Neurology). Specifically, the participants displayed marked improvements in verbal memory, story memory and overall executive functioning. These findings were even more pronounced in the case of black pet owners. Even in those already suffering from dementia, scientists found that interactions with a dog or other pet precipitated a lessening of existing symptoms, likely because they increased the quality of social interaction within the care home setting. In many cases, the participants initially reported the high levels of social isolation associated with an elevated risk of dementia, many of them living alone without regular interactions with friends or family. Pet ownership mitigated these risks. Additionally, a sub-section of the project looked specifically at seniors who walked their dogs, finding additional improvements in such cases.  ​

These findings have undoubtedly validated existing ideas about the positive cognitive effects of pet ownership, adding much-needed hard data to back up observations already offered by both owners and scientists. By considering the “loneliness factor,” as well as dog-walking and other specific facets of pet care (as opposed to examining only the general act), researchers have been able to focus more precisely on what works, and why.
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However, the writers of the study caution that there is still work to be done. Not all of its findings are conclusive, and while the researcher’s methodology accounted for the presence of factors supportive of cognitive health, but unrelated to pet ownership, there’s still the possibility that such influences remained present in some form. Simply put, more research is needed, both to cover possible blind spots in the existing research, and to strengthen established findings with more extensive data. ​

Anyone even vaguely familiar with our mission at PAWS/LA will understand why this dementia study is of such importance to us. Not only does it pertain to a segment of our core client base (seniors), but it speaks to a developing pattern of socio-scientific research that suggests pet ownership is objectively good for everyone. The facts extend beyond attempts to arrest cognitive decline. In a broader sense, the scientific link between the human-animal bond and individual health is going from strength to strength, with research showing that animals can help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, as well as decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially in military veterans. ​

The science matters. It lends strength to the overall argument that people and animals are better together, making it more than just an opinion. There are those who still consider pet ownership a luxury, arguing that people struggling for resources shouldn’t have an animal; that their pet should be the first thing to go at times of hardship. To these people, pets are something we enjoy, not something that we need. This fundamentally erroneous belief underestimates the now measurable impact that service animals have on their owners’ lives. While they might not occupy the same level of necessity as food and water—elements without which a person will die--animals are far from a luxury item. For years, our clients have been describing their pets as a lifeline, a reason for living; some would (and have) even given up shelter to keep their animal in cases when the only available housing refused to allow pets. 
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Scientific studies vindicate all these points, drawing a hard line between pet ownership and an individual’s health. They add an objective, measurable dimension to subjective arguments, freeing them from a reliance on individual testimony alone. Science gives us a way to prove the potential physical and mental damage done to those separated from their pets, or denied animal companionship to begin with. This strengthens the advocacy position of organizations like PAWS/LA, and gives our friends and allies an invaluable legal argument for protective housing laws and policies; it potentially increases the scope of what can be considered a service animal, and broadens social and medical attitudes towards animal assisted therapies; it may even make the government think more carefully about the resources it's willing to allocate to pet owners in need. While there’s still a lot of work to be done, the more data we have, the harder it will be for opposing parties to argue that the human-animal bond is incidental to the overall health of society.  
For seniors, animal ownership is proving a powerful tool in the fight against dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. For the rest of us, it’s yet another reason to seriously consider the benefits of a society in which pet ownership is available to all, regardless of their physical or economic status.  ​

​The Holiday Season is a special time for people to gather and be merry together. No matter your background or belief system, some kind of holiday celebration is likely to insert itself into your day-to-day life. At such times, it’s important to remember that pets are part of festivities too. Amidst the hustle, bustle and disruptions in routine, it's easy to overlook the potential, pet-specific dangers that lurk within the celebratory frenzy. In this guide, we will highlight some of these hazards and explore various ways to keep your pets safe and happy during the holiday season.

​Nobody likes decorating for the holidays more than I do. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as buying an artisanal, hand-crafted bauble for a hundred bucks and then seeing it shatter the next time someone sneezes near it. Yet, behind the sparkle of fairy lights and shimmer of tinsel there lies a world of danger, especially for your pets. What you see as a delightful winter grotto might constitute a perilous hellscape for a cat or dog. Keep your decorations off the floor as, according to both experts and anyone with even a modicum of common sense, they can be harmful to your pet’s digestive system if swallowed. In the same vein, make sure to secure your Christmas tree so it doesn't topple over if an overly rambunctious pet decides to climb it. Always have a fireguard in your hearth, and make sure those candles are well out of reach. Finally, bear in mind that your pet is not a decoration or accessory. It’s perfectly acceptable to dress them up for the festivities, but only if they’re comfortable with it. The only thing worse than a sad cat is a sad cat with reindeer antlers taped to its head.

​Without a doubt, food and drink play a major role in almost every holiday tradition. We feast and imbibe, and imbibe some more, and then feast again, seeing out the year with an earnest, but ultimately futile resolve to scale back our future indulgences. Just bear in mind, that our furry friend's dietary needs are vastly different from our own. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, alcohol, and foods with artificial sweeteners (like xylitol) should be kept out of your pet's reach. With so many visitors coming and going throughout the season, it’s important to inform your guests about not feeding table scraps to your pets. Instead, serve them (the pets, not the guests) with healthy organic meals. This is particularly important if children are visiting. Of course, that doesn’t mean your furry friends shouldn’t eat well over the holiday season. You can find an abundance of gourmet pet food options available in any major supermarket or pet supply emporium. Consider treating your beloved animal to something special they can enjoy while you’re scarfing your fourth piece of pie. Just remember, Fido most definitely needs to stay away from the champagne. He’s obnoxious when he’s drunk, and everybody knows it.

​The holiday season often involves gatherings, parties, and fireworks. Some of us enjoy these festivities, others find them only mildly more tolerable than a root canal. Regardless of your own inclinations, bear in mind that your pet probably has no idea what in the world is going on and could easily become overwhelmed. This is especially true on New Year's Eve when your pet is wondering why your weird neighbor is vomiting in the plant pot. Some animals, get especially excited or hostile around strangers, and this can prove dangerous for both parties—especially when kids are involved. Nobody wants to miss out on the celebrations because they had to rush Cousin Johnny to the ER for stitches and a rabies shot. In such chaotic circumstances, your animal is most certainly not at fault. Create a safe and quiet space where they can retreat to if they feel stressed. This could be a cozy corner with their bed, toys, and water. You might even consider playing soft music or leaving on a white noise machine on to soothe their nerves. Never force a shy pet to socialize, and make sure all guests are aware of any boundaries the animal might have.

​If you plan to give your pet a gift, remember that they almost certainly don’t care. They're animals! They would probably rather a little extra care and attention, instead. (Likewise, do not be upset if your pet doesn’t give you a gift. It’s not that they’re being thoughtless; you’re just particularly difficult to buy for, and they don’t want to spend money on something you won’t use). If you insist on buying them a present anyway, keep it simple. Ensure that any new items are safe and appropriate. Avoid toys with small parts that could be a choking hazard. Instead, opt for sturdy, pet-approved items that encourage mental stimulation and physical activity. Remember, something as simple as a ratty piece of old string peeled off your shoe can provide a kitten with hours of entertainment.

​With busy holiday schedules, it's easy to overlook your pet's exercise routine. However, just because you’ve eaten so much saturated fat you can hardly move, doesn’t mean your pet should suffer too. Regular exercise, fresh air and the stimulation of being outside are crucial for any animals’ well-being. No matter how busy you get, take time for walks and activities that keep your pet’s mind sharp. If the weather is harsh, consider indoor games like hide and seek. Just bear in mind that there are plenty of holiday hazards outside of the house.

​The holiday season often means an increased output of household waste. For us, this is an inconvenient by product of our seasonal revelry; for a curious pet, it is an abundance of riches. Make sure your garbage is secure, perhaps in a cabinet or sealed with a pet-proof lid. You don’t want them rummaging through the trash and potentially ingesting something harmful. 

​If you're traveling with your pet, ensure their safety and comfort by investing in a spacious, fully equipped pet carrier with a secure door. Make sure to bring some familiar bedding, toys, and food to help them feel at ease in a new environment. If you're flying, check the airline's pet policies well in advance and ensure your animal meets all the requirements to board. Any time your pet is away from their home environment, they should be microchipped and wearing a collar with up-to-date contact information. Remember that the movie Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a highly embellished work of fiction and that most lost animals will NOT embark on a series of colorful adventures and soul-searching trials to find their way home. (Most cats will just pick a new owner).

​Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. It’s the thing you don’t worry about that inevitably ends up blindsiding you—usually when you least expect it. Like any good boy scout you need to be prepared. Have the contact information of a local 24/7 veterinary clinic readily available. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest emergency animal hospital. Check their website for holiday hours and other changes in schedule. In a crisis, quick action can make all the difference.

​Once again, these seemingly innocuous household accessories can pose a significant risk to your pets. Several plants commonly used for decorations, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to pets if ingested. Mistletoe can also be problematic as it encourages the unsanitary practice of interspecies smooching. Make sure these plants are out of your pet's reach or opt for pet-safe alternatives if you want to decorate with greenery.

​Amidst the holiday chaos, don't forget about your pet's routine health care. Ensure they are up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite prevention, especially if your guests are bringing unfamiliar animals into the home. With many stores and pharmacies operating on a holiday schedule, it pays to make sure you’re sufficiently stocked up on any essential medications BEFORE the shops close. The holiday season often means colder weather, so take necessary precautions to keep your pets warm, especially if they spend time outdoors. Little dogs in coats and mittens are adorable, just make sure they are comfortable.

​In conclusion, the holiday season can be both delightful and challenging for our pets. While being overly anxious ultimately helps nobody, a little reasonable mindfulness goes a long way. As with any good safety plan, identifying potential dangers is the natural first step. With one in place, you can relax into the spirit of the season and share your joy with your furry friends. Just don’t get so carried away that you end up ruining the occasion for everyone. The holidays wouldn’t be the same without your beloved animals. They likely feel the same about you.

Your Animal’s Diet Matters!
 
As one of the fundamental conditions needed to sustain life, nutrition drives every aspect of our biological functioning, either fortifying or weakening body and mind. A good diet will fend off illness and disease, ensure that we have enough energy to live a productive life, and toughen our bodies against injury. A poor diet leaves us vulnerable to every kind of physical harm, and can exacerbate, or even cause, mental health disorders, leading to increased levels of depression and anxiety. In other words, food matters. A lot. As humans we have access to a wealth of information on good nutrition, as well as a market saturated with healthy food offerings. Our understanding continues to grow steadily, with new diets and nutritional strategies entering our cultural consciousness on what feels like a daily basis.

​What we sometimes overlook, however, is that proper nutrition is just as important for our pets. Without realizing it, we might subscribe to the idea that our pets will function just as well no matter what they eat—that as long as they’re fed, and protected from allergens and poisons, they’ll be healthy. This simply isn’t true. Animals are complex organisms just as we are. Their age, sex, genetic makeup and evolutionary habits dictate the specific combination of nutrients that are optimal for their health. A pet might be exceptionally well-fed, and cared for in every aspect, and yet be lacking vital sources of nutrition, simply because the owner doesn’t know what they should be providing.

Luckily, we’re increasingly recalibrating our knowledge of human nutrition to meet the specific needs of our pets, acknowledging that every organism has different requirements, and that what works for us might not work for our furry friends. Gone are the days when pets were expected to eat whatever surplus scraps their owners had left after a meal. Now, pet parents are eager to feed their beloved animals well, and to give to significant consideration to their nutritional intake. For this reason, pet health food is a growing market with both big brands and smaller companies diversifying their offerings to appeal to a variety of species, ages and body types. Of course, dogs and cats remain the most catered to demographics in the pet food market, which gives us even more reason to understand their diet; when faced with an abundance of options, we need at least a minimum amount of knowledge to ensure that we make the right choice.

Throughout a continuing series of posts, we’ll be digging into all the available information, and exploring various aspect of your pet’s dietary needs. In this article specifically, we consider the unique nutritional requirements of cats, and cover some of the ways in which you can ensure your favorite feline stays fit and happy. Many of the following tips, however, could apply to any animal you care for. Look out for more posts about pet nutrition, including information specific to our canine companions.

​Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily consisting of animal-based proteins. Cats cannot be vegetarian, and need fatty acids, vitamins and minerals found only in natural tissue. Their nutritional requirements differ significantly from humans and even other pets. Consult your veterinarian to understand the specific dietary needs of your cat based on its breed, age, weight, and any medical conditions they might have. Remember, one of the most dominant myths in the pet care world is that cats love cow's milk. Neither kittens nor adult cats require significant amounts of milk or cream. These dairy products have no useful place within a cat’s nutritional system and often cause digestion problems.

​Protein is the foundation of your cat's diet. Look for cat foods with meat or fish listed as the primary ingredient. These proteins provide essential amino acids that support muscle maintenance, organ function, and overall energy levels. Unlike humans, who enjoy variety in what they eat, pets in general can find it difficult digesting foods they aren’t accustomed to. Sticking with a single kind of protein can help avoid gastrointestinal problems.

​A balanced diet includes not only protein but also fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Too much or too little of any nutrient can lead to health issues. Consult with your vet to determine the optimal nutrient ratio for your cat's age and activity level. These days, you may come across “prescription foods”, dishes that are specifically tailored to help treat a specific condition. While, these foods can only be purchased through a veterinarian, they rarely contain any actual medicine and are not prescriptions in the usual sense of the word. There is some debate over prescription pet food, as it is often considerably more expensive than normal pet food, and its overall benefits have been contested by a number of studies. Make sure you’re working with a veterinarian you trust, and always check the label before you shell out cash for a product that may well be no better than what you usually buy from your local pet store.

​Cats often have a low thirst drive, which can lead to dehydration, especially if they're on a dry kibble diet. Always provide fresh water and consider incorporating wet cat food into their diet. The moisture content helps maintain their hydration levels. This becomes especially important when you live in a hot climate, or during unexpected heat waves. It also pays to learn the signs of dehydration in your cat, so that you can catch the problem early on and hydrate accordingly.

​Obesity is a growing concern among cats, leading to various health problems like diabetes and joint issues. Follow feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust portions based on your cat's activity level and weight. Regularly monitor their weight and consult the vet if necessary. Generally, an adult domestic cat eats little and often, anywhere from 12 – 24 small meals over the course of a 24-hour period, which they spread relatively evenly across both daylight and night time hours. If your cat is free to roam and visit other houses, consider politely asking you neighbors to refrain from giving out treats.

​Some human foods are toxic to cats and should be strictly avoided. These include chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners. Make sure to keep these substances out of your cat's reach. A less obvious danger can come from the kinds of trendy “raw diets” that have popped up over the past few years. As with prescription food, there is some debate over the safety and effectiveness of such diets, but whatever your final opinion, you should be careful any time you provide raw meat, as the risk for bacterial infection is considerably higher. Make sure any raw products you provide for your pet have been safely stored in a freezer.

​Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats have different nutritional requirements. Kittens need more calories and nutrients to support their growth, while senior cats might need diets that support joint health and manage age-related issues. Again, this is a case of doing a little research and consulting your vet. Remember, nobody knows your cat like you.

​While treats can be a way to bond with your cat, excessive treats can lead to nutritional imbalances. Choose high-quality cat treats and use them sparingly, preferably as rewards for training or special occasions. Try to resist feeding your pet from your dinner plate. It is difficult to resist pleading kitty-cat eyes, but encouraging random feeding can have a detrimental effect on your portion control strategy.

​Some cats may develop food allergies or sensitivities over time. If you notice signs like gastrointestinal upset, skin problems, or excessive scratching, consult your vet to explore potential allergies and adjust their diet accordingly. 

​If you're switching your cat's diet, do it gradually to avoid digestive upset. Mix the new food with the old one over several days until your cat is fully accustomed to the change.

​Caring for your cat's diet is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. Each cat has unique needs, and so careful research, observation and the professional expertise of your veterinarian should be your primary tools. Don’t assume your cat is like every other. Be attentive to how they react to certain foods, and make sure that they’re getting the right amount of each specific nutrient--protein, carbs, fats, and vitamins. Consider keeping a notebook or planner in which to track the foods you provide, and record any observations you make about your cat's responses to various dishes. Remember to share your nutritional strategy with your cat's other caretakers, so that they can maintain the consistency of your approach. ​A good diet will not completely protect your beloved pet from sickness and injury, but by making an effort, you ensure you have done everything possible to give your cat the life it deserves.

We love our pets! They're precious companions, maybe even part of the family. It's essential that we ensure their well-being and safety, especially when a crisis strikes. Natural disasters or unexpected emergencies don't politely announce themselves. They can occur at any moment, leaving us with little time to react. This is especially true in California, with the ever-present threats of wildfires, earthquakes and flooding. Assembling and maintaining a well-prepared emergency kit for our pets helps ensures you're ready for anything, and provides peace of mind outside of a disaster scenario. In this blog post, the PAWS/LA team will discuss the essential items and steps required to assemble an effective emergency kit. You can also download a comprehensive and printable emergency kit checklist from the CDC website.

​The first step in creating a pet emergency kit is to gather all the necessary documents related to your pet. These documents may include vaccination records, medical history, identification papers, and contact information for your veterinarian. Make sure to store them in a waterproof bag or folder and keep a digital copy as a backup.

​When disaster strikes, access to food and clean water may be limited. Ensure you have a sufficient supply of your pet's regular food stored in airtight containers to maintain its freshness. It is recommended to store at least a week's worth of food for your pet. Additionally, pack portable bowls for both food and water, and remember to rotate the food supply periodically to avoid expiration.

​If your pet requires regular medication, ensure you have a sufficient supply in your emergency kit. Include a first aid supplies specifically designed for pets, which should contain items such as bandages, antiseptic solution, tweezers, and any necessary medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Familiarize yourself with basic pet first aid procedures or enroll in a pet first aid course to be well-prepared in case of an emergency.

​Disasters can be stressful for pets, and having familiar items can provide them with comfort during uncertain times. Pack their favorite blanket, toys, and any other items that bring them comfort. These familiar objects can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security.

​In an emergency, you may need to evacuate with your pet quickly. Ensure you have a sturdy leash and collar readily available for each pet. Additionally, invest in a secure and properly sized pet carrier that is easily transportable. Practice using the carrier with your pet beforehand to reduce stress during an actual emergency.

​Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is essential for your pet's health. Pack a supply of poop bags, litter, litter trays (for cats), and cleaning supplies such as pet-friendly disinfectants. These items will help you keep your pet's environment clean and reduce the risk of diseases.

​In chaotic situations, it is common for pets to become separated from their owners. Ensure your pet's identification is up to date. A collar with identification tags and a securely fitted microchip with your contact information are vital in helping reunite you with your pet if you get separated.

​You can never be too prepared. Although we don't want to live our lives anticipating disaster, taking a little time to create an emergency kit for your pet allows you to relax in the knowledge that you're ready for anything. By being prepared, you can minimize stress and provide comfort to your beloved companion when it matters most. Remember to periodically check and replenish supplies, so your emergency kit remains up to date. Taking these proactive steps will help you face emergencies with confidence, knowing that you have everything you need to protect and care for your beloved animals. And who knows, maybe they'll end up protecting and taking care of you!