The purpose of this study is to evaluate what sort of behavioral changes we may expect to see over a short period of time in senior dogs which we are being seen for veterinary care.
Senior dogs which are presenting to the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center for veterinary care, including a medical appointment, anesthesia for a diagnostic procedure, or anesthesia for a surgical procedure are eligible for inclusion in this study.
Dogs which have moderate to severe systemic disease, have a disease process that might specifically influence their behavior, are taking certain medications that may influence their behavior, or have recently had anesthesia are not eligible for inclusion in the study.
Owners will be asked to complete two questionnaires about their dog’s behavior at two different timepoints, once around the time of the patient’s appointment/procedure and again about one month later. These questionnaires are available for completion online via a link that will be provided to you.
By participating in this study, you will be providing valuable information that can contribute to improving the care of dogs in the future. The hope is that having a better understanding of the impact of aging on the behavior of these animals will help us optimize their care by allowing us to take into consideration these changes when formulating treatment plans for these patients.
You are encouraged to ask questions at any time during this study. For further information about the study, please contact Dr. Merodio Maria (mmaria@iastate.edu)