Dogs and Dementia

I’m caretaker for 70 y/o wife with moderate dementia. While things are manageable, the biggest decline is in verbal communication and ability to do many household things. Recently we dog sat our daughter’s Cavachon dog for a week and she interacted with the dog very well and seemed to love having dog on her lap. We’ve had dogs in past but not for last 15 years or so due to travel.

Has anyone had experience with a dog for dementia patients? As primary caretaker, I know duties will ramp up as the disease progresses. Not knowing what to expect just don’t want to overload myself, yet loved seeing her smile and enjoy the dog. Welcome thoughts and experiences.