Getting older is a fact of life for every living being. However, watching a beloved pet age can be incredibly upsetting. They gradually change, need more and more support, and can no longer do the things they used to.
The American Kennel Club estimates that 28% of dogs aged 11 to 12 show at least one sign of canine dementia, which is the canine equivalent of Alzheimer's disease in humans. This figure rises to 68% by the time dogs reach the age of 15.
A heartbreaking moment
Last autumn, as reported by US publication Newsweek, Paola Kulsrud started to notice these signs in her oldest dog, Mehkia. He was finding it increasingly difficult to get up from the sofa and to walk.
She decided to take her beloved dog to the vet, who confirmed the onset of dementia. This is sadly not uncommon for a 15-year-old dog.
Heartbroken and distressed to see her best friend so unwell, Paola Kulsrud recently shared a short video on TikTok. It shows her dog looking completely disoriented in the middle of the night. The poor animal is pacing back and forth while his owner gently tries to persuade him to go back to sleep. It was a difficult moment that broke Paola's heart, as she explained in the comments.
A wave of compassion
Of course, a treatment plan has been put in place to help Mehkia as much as possible during this new stage of his life. And the lovely dog still has many wonderful moments of joy and happiness.
Within hours, Mehkia's video had been viewed more than ten million times. People everywhere were deeply moved to see the dog's decline, but also by the immense love he receives. It's a universal story, and a progression dreaded by all loving pet owners.
