Use of acupuncture in canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome - Case report

Abstract

The life span of dogs has increased due to scientific advances in veterinary medicine and, consequently, neurodegenerative diseases related to aging are becoming a clinical routine. Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is considered a disease without cure and the aim of treatment is based on delaying the progression of clinical signs. The main clinical signs of CDS are disorientation, changes in the sleep-wake cycle, decreased social interaction and increased anxiety. In addition to conventional treatment, the use of acupuncture has proven to be effective, improving cognitive function and bringing quality of life to dogs and owners. In the present case report, treatment with acupuncture was performed on a 13-year-old male schnauzer dog, with signs of CDS such as disorientation and changes in social interaction. The Yin Tang, GV20, PC6, B23, ST36 and KID3 points were used, resulting in an improvement in cognitive signs. As there is a shortage of data in the literature on integrative therapy using acupuncture in cognitive dysfunction syndrome, the aim of the present study was to report a case of acupuncture treatment in an aged canine patient diagnosed with CDS.