vet-n-pet DIRECT

2 1 3 Not just FRESH, HEALTHY too. Innovative FR3SH technology targets the causes of bad breath 3 ways: NEW 1 C LEA N S E 2 C O O L 3 D I GE S T I V E The power of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in dogs, also known as Canine Compulsive Disorder, is when a typically normal behaviour becomes excessive, extreme or repetitive. The dog is compelled to excessively repeat a behaviour through an irresistible urge. The behaviour continues although there is seemingly no positive benefit or outcome. These behaviours can interfere with the dog's ability to function normally. It can be very distressing for the dog and for humans to witness. Common obsessive compulsive behaviours seen in dog's include; u Spinning or tail chasing u Air snapping u Fly chasing u Light or shadow chasing u Sucking, licking or chewing on a body part or object u Self-mutilation or excessive grooming u Pacing u Barking in a rhythmic or incessant way seemingly for no reason Many obsessive behaviours start from a normal or natural behaviour or response and can develop to an excessive behaviour due to a few reasons; u Boredom u Lack of physical and/or mental stimulation u Fear, anxiety or stress u Lack of attention or attention seeking u Medical conditions including pain, neurological conditions or dermatological conditions u A genetic predisposition to certain behaviours (for example, German Shepherds are more likely to tail spin) It is important to address any obsessive compulsive behaviours early as they affect the dog's quality of life. The longer the behaviour continues for the harder it can be to rectify. The first step if a dog is exhibiting compulsive behaviour or any unusual behaviour is to visit your vet. A veterinarian needs to perform a thorough examination and possibly run some tests to rule out if there is a medical reason for the behaviour. OCD in dogs can be difficult to treat if the trigger for the behaviour remains unknown. If the trigger is identified and removed this could rectify or at least help reduce the behaviour. Other things that can help reduce and stop OCD behaviours include; u Redirecting them to another activity when the trigger is present or when the behaviour starts u Increase mental and physical stimulation u Reducing stress u Not paying them attention, even negative attention, when performing the behaviour u Medication. Research studies have shown that dogs that display OCD behaviours have altered serotonin levels. There are some medications that can be prescribed to help with the absorption of serotonin. If your dog is suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder contacting an Animal Behaviourist may help you understand the behaviour and help in finding a way to manage or fix the problem. OCD IN DOGS

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