Dementia is a terrible disease. The mental decline of our loved ones is heartbreaking, and the effects are profound. This condition can’t be cured, but medication and therapy can help. And what better therapy is there than the unconditional love of a dog?

In today’s episode, we join Layla, a Jack Russell who visits dementia patients in a Canadian senior center. She helps those afflicted by spreading love and joy in a way only dogs can. We also get into the science and research behind why dogs are so beneficial for those with dementia.

Episode links

Swedish Study: A Therapy Dog’s Impact on Daytime Activity and Night-time Sleep for Older Persons with Alzheimer's Disease-A Case Study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287442448_A_therapy_dog's_impact_on_daytime_activity_and_night-time_sleep_for_older_persons_with_Alzheimer's_disease_-_A_case_study

University of Nebraska study showing relief from Sundowner Syndrome: https://onecallmedicalalert.com/blogs/news/research-shows-therapy-dogs-can-help-alzheimers-patients-with-sundown-syndrome

About DPN

Check out Dog Podcast Network for other dog-adjacent shows:

The Long Leash where we rescue tasty scraps from the editing room floor in an unscripted interview show

Dog Cancer Answers which offers vetted advice from real veterinarians who answer your questions about dog cancer

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