wandering aimlessly around

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Synonyms and antonyms of wander aimlessly in English

Wander aimlessly.

Word of the Day

have your hands full

to be so busy that you do not have time to do anything else

Binding, nailing, and gluing: talking about fastening things together

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists

Add ${headword} to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

bottom_desktop desktop:[300x250]

• Dictionaries home
• American English
• Collocations
• German-English
• Grammar home
• Practical English Usage
• Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
• Word Lists home
• My Word Lists
• Recent additions
• Resources home
• Text Checker

Definition of aimless adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• My life seemed aimless.
• She was wandering around in a somewhat aimless way.

Take your English to the next level

The Oxford Learner’s Thesaurus explains the difference between groups of similar words. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app

Biden Wanders Aimlessly Around Stage, Appears Completely Lost In Arizona (Video)

President Joe Biden delivered remarks at the Grand Canyon in Arizona today as part of a multi-day trip to the Western United States. During his speech, Biden mumbled and rambled about the ‘climate crisis’. Biden seemed to struggle to deliver his message.

Biden can be quoted as saying, “There’s a lot of good that’s gonna come from the sacrifices of dealing with taking on the climate crisis!”

What is Biden talking about? See a clip of that statement below…

As Biden was exiting the stage he appeared completely lost. He randomly saluted the crowd, headed left, headed right, and eventually exited the stage to his left. It appeared as if the President had absolutely no idea where he was supposed to go…

How could somebody who cannot even walk off of a stage possibly be capable of executing the duties of the highest office in the land? See a clip of Shufflin’ Joe wandering aimlessly around the stage in Arizona in the clip below…

It was yet another embarrassing performance for this President. You would think that coming back from a 10-day vacation in Delaware would have meant that the President would be well-rested.

Biden is showing that it isn’t tiredness that prevents him from doing his job, it is deterioration. In other words, he has no mind to rest. This is Joe Biden. This is as capable as he gets!

Scary, isn’t it?

The post Biden Wanders Aimlessly Around Stage, Appears Completely Lost In Arizona (Video) appeared first on Rare .

Definition of 'wander'

Video: pronunciation of wander

wander in American English

Wander in british english, examples of 'wander' in a sentence wander, trends of wander.

View usage over: Since Exist Last 10 years Last 50 years Last 100 years Last 300 years

Browse alphabetically wander

• wand reader
• wander aimlessly
• wander alone
• wander an aisle
• All ENGLISH words that begin with 'W'

Related terms of wander

• eyes wander
• wander plug
• polar wander
• View more related words

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

If you have a dog, you probably hate thinking about negative things, such as the signs your dog may be getting dementia . But part of being a good pet owner is acknowledging that our pets do get sick, and they do age. And the more we can learn about all of the above, the better we can take care of them.

Dog dementia, otherwise known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS), is very similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. If your dog has it, they may start to show signs of confusion, anxiety, listlessness, and other neurological-based problems. But usually not until they're older.

"Age of onset can vary greatly based on individual breed characteristics, however we commonly see signs of CCDS in dogs 11 years and older," Dr. Emily Wilson, of Fuzzy Pet Health , tells Bustle. "Subtle initial clinical signs can be noted as early as seven years of age in some dogs."

The good thing is, if you notice signs of dementia, there are ways to help your dog feel better and stave off worsening symptoms. "One of the best things is regular environmental enrichment and mental stimulation," Dr. Wilson says. "This can include food puzzles or some simple low stress training to help engage their minds on a daily basis. Regular low-impact exercise is also really important and it will also help maintain a healthy weight as well as mental stimulation." There are also special diets, natural supplements, and medications your vet can recommend, if need be.

If you're worried about your dog's health , notice these changes, or want to know more, make an appointment with a veterinarian. Here are some of the signs of dog dementia to watch out for, as your dog gets older.

Aimless Wandering

Sometimes dogs want to wander around the house, so no need to worry if yours is strolling around or peeking out windows. But if your dog is older, and they appear aimless or lost in their own home, it may be a sign of cognitive decline.

"Changes in orientation can include aimless wandering, as well as pets appearing 'stuck,' such as in a corner for no apparent reason," Dr. Wilson says. "As dogs develop CCDS they have difficulty with day-to-day routine recognition and remembering where to go, similar to humans with Alzheimer’s disease ."

If your dog is beginning to feel lost, it can help to keep them on a strict routine. "Keeping a regular schedule with your dog [can] minimize [their] confusion and anxiety," Dr. Turnera Croom , a holistic veterinarian, tells Bustle. "Also keep the layout of your home, and your dog’s belongings, in the same place."

Changes In How They Interact With You

When a dog is getting dementia, they often go through slight personality changes, which can cause them to act differently around you.

"Social interaction changes are usually best gauged between the dog and the pet parent," Dr. Wilson says. "Signs can include seeking out the pet parent less for attention, increased anxiety, and increased fearfulness."

These new behaviors are usually due to confusion, and the anxiety it causes them. "All of these changes usually arise due to uncertainty of routine or familiarity, but each dog can show signs very differently because of varying personalities," Dr. Wilson says.

Peeing In The House

If your dog is house-trained , but is suddenly going to the bathroom inside, take note. As Dr. Wilson says, "Changes in house training are a common initial sign in some of our older dog patients. This may be due to decreased mobility in addition to confusion as to the 'routine' of going outside to potty. Dogs may forget or get confused which door to use to go outside even though it has been a part of their routine for years."

This could also be a sign of another health problem , such as gastrointestinal distress. One accident is usually nothing to worry about, but if it's become a habit, it may be a good idea to take your dog to the vet for a checkup.

Sleeping More Or At Odd Hours

Dogs sleep a lot, especially as they get older. And that's OK. With dog dementia, though, you may notice that they sleep more often than usual or at odd hours. Or that they have a different sleep/wake cycle than usual.

"It is important to pay attention to this since it can also be an early sign of CCDS," Dr. Wilson says. "Some dogs will start to sleep more during the day and then be restless with increased wakefulness during the night either due to increased anxiety or decreased awareness of their regular routine."

New Aggression

If your dog has always been sweet and laid back, but is now in the habit of growling at you or seeming shocked and territorial whenever your friends come over, it may be another sign dementia.

"Aggression toward family or friends [is] due to lack of recognition," Dr. Croom says. It's part of the cognitive decline, and a sign of confusion and anxiety — not hostility.

"The aggression that the dog may display confuses human family members prior to a definitive diagnosis," Dr. Croom says, which is why it's important to point out this new behavior to your vet, so they can suggest the correct treatment.

Keeping a routine can be a big help when it comes to lessening your dog's anxiety, as it makes them less likely to lash out in fear. There are also medications and supplements they can take, so it's definitely a fixable problem.

Loss Of Direction When Out For Walks

If your dog is getting dementia, you may notice they've lost their ability to follow usual routes while you're out walking, Dr. Croom says. And since this can cause them even more anxiety and confusion, sticking to a routine will be key.

"Trod down those well-worn sidewalks with your pup and help [them[ remember the trees [they] always lifts [their] leg for," Dr. Croom says. By staying on the same path, your dog will feel more secure in their surroundings. And, as a bonus, exercise can really help stave off dementia symptoms .

Lack Of Interest In Play

For older dogs, a lack of interest in play can be a sign of dementia, according to Dr. Croom. So if your dog has always been down to play, but now has little interest, you should definitely point it out to your vet.

This could also be a sign of things like arthritis, as well as other health issues dogs encounter as they age, though. So try not to immediately assume it's dementia.

Pacing & Whining

All dogs whine and pace, especially if they're bored or need to go outside. Dogs with dementia do this more frequently, however, and at strange hours of the day.

"Pacing, whining, and panting are [...] common, and may increase in the evenings," certified professional dog trainer Erin Jones MSc, CPDT-KA, CDBC , tells Bustle. "As well [as a] change in sleeping patterns, such as waking up early or in the middle of the night and pacing."

Staring Off Into Space

As Jones says, if your dog has taken to staring off into space, it may be a sign of dementia. You know your dog best, so if this is out of character, it may be a good idea to ask a vet for advice.

Some changes in your dog's behavior can be attributed to other things, such as boredom, loneliness, or even other health issues — such as arthritis. If your dog is older, though, these changes may be an indication of dog dementia.

By spotting the signs of dementia, you can start adjusting how you care for your dog, possibly by stimulating their mind with fun games, taking them for more walks, or even giving them medications — whatever your vet suggests. It can be scary to watch your dog's mind decline, but there's quite a few things you can do to help them feel better .

10 Triggers for Wandering in Dementia

Dementia is a debilitating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It not only affects the memory but also causes changes in mood, behavior, and communication skills. Wandering is one of the most dangerous and common behaviors associated with dementia. It can lead to injury, death, and a lot of stress for caregivers. In this blog post, I talk about the triggers for wandering in dementia and how to prevent it.

Jump Directly To

What is Wandering in Dementia?

Wandering is a behavior characterized by aimless or repetitive movements, without a clear purpose or destination. It can take many forms, such as pacing, walking in circles, leaving home without a plan, or getting lost in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Wandering is particularly dangerous for people with dementia, as they may not remember where they are or how to get back home. They may also become disoriented, confused, and agitated, leading to a higher risk of falls, accidents, and injury.

Triggers for Wandering in Dementia

1. feeling lost or disoriented.

One common trigger for wandering in dementia is feeling lost or disoriented. For example, imagine an elderly woman with dementia who gets up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. She may become confused or disoriented and wander around the house, looking for the bathroom or trying to find her way back to bed.

2. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation

Another trigger for wandering in dementia is boredom or lack of stimulation. For instance, a man with dementia who used to be an avid gardener may become restless and agitated if he no longer has access to his garden. Without stimulating activities or hobbies, he may wander in search of something to do.

3. Unmet Needs

Unmet needs can also trigger wandering in dementia. For example, an elderly man with dementia who is hungry or thirsty may wander around the house, looking for food or water. Similarly, a woman with dementia who is in pain or discomfort may wander around in search of relief.

4. Confusion or Memory Loss

Confusion and memory loss are hallmark symptoms of dementia and can trigger wandering in some individuals. For instance, a man with dementia who forgets where he is or what he is supposed to be doing may wander in search of familiar surroundings or routine activities.

5. Changes in Routine or Environment

Changes in routine or environment can also trigger wandering in dementia. For example, a woman with dementia who is moved to a new care facility or taken on vacation may become disoriented and wander around in search of familiar surroundings.

6. Side Effects of Medications

Some medications used to treat dementia or other health conditions can have side effects that trigger wandering. For instance, a woman with dementia who is taking a medication that causes drowsiness or confusion may wander around in a disoriented state.

7. Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disturbances are common in people with dementia and can trigger wandering behavior. For example, a man with dementia who experiences frequent nighttime awakenings may become disoriented and wander around in the dark.

8. Fear or Anxiety

Fear or anxiety can also trigger wandering in some individuals with dementia. For instance, a woman with dementia who is afraid of a thunderstorm or unfamiliar noise may wander around in search of safety or reassurance.

9. Unfamiliar Surroundings

Unfamiliar surroundings can also trigger wandering behavior. For example, an elderly man with dementia who is taken to a new doctor’s office or hospital may become disoriented and wander around in search of familiar surroundings.

10. Desire for Independence

Finally, some individuals with dementia may wander to assert their independence or control over their surroundings. For example, a woman with dementia who is used to being in charge of her own life may wander in an attempt to take back control and feel more independent.

These are just a few real-life examples of triggers for wandering in dementia. By understanding these triggers and taking steps to prevent wandering, caregivers can help ensure the safety and well-being of their loved ones with dementia.

10 Real-Life Examples To Help You Understand the Situation Better 

1. Mary is an 80-year-old woman with early-stage dementia. She lives alone in her home and enjoys walking in her neighborhood. However, lately, Mary has been wandering more frequently and getting lost. Her daughter, who lives out of town, visited and noticed that Mary’s home was cluttered and disorganized, which may be causing her stress and confusion.

2. Tom is a 75-year-old man with mid-stage dementia. He lives in a care facility and enjoys participating in group activities. However, Tom has been wandering more frequently and leaving the facility without permission. Staff members discovered that Tom’s medication dosage was incorrect, causing him to feel restless and disoriented.

3. Emma is a 90-year-old woman with advanced-stage dementia. She lives in a nursing home and enjoys spending time with her family. However, Emma has been wandering more frequently and getting agitated. Her family discovered that Emma’s hearing aid was not working properly, causing her to feel frustrated and confused.

4. Jack is an 85-year-old man with mid-stage dementia. He lives with his wife in their home and enjoys reading and watching TV. However, Jack has been wandering more frequently and becoming lost. His wife noticed that Jack’s sleep schedule was irregular, causing him to feel tired and disoriented during the day.

5. Alice is an 85-year-old woman with early-stage dementia. She lives in a retirement community and enjoys playing cards with her friends. However, Alice has been wandering more frequently and forgetting where she is. Her friends noticed that Alice’s glasses were missing, causing her to have difficulty seeing and feeling disoriented.

6. Peter is a 70-year-old man with mid-stage dementia. He lives in a care facility and enjoys taking walks outside. However, Peter has been wandering more frequently and becoming agitated. Staff members discovered that Peter’s room was too hot, causing him to feel uncomfortable and restless.

7. Karen is a 78-year-old woman with early-stage dementia. She lives with her daughter and enjoys cooking and baking. However, Karen has been wandering more frequently and forgetting important tasks. Her daughter noticed that Karen’s kitchen was cluttered, causing her to feel overwhelmed and confused.

8. David is an 80-year-old man with mid-stage dementia. He lives in a care facility and enjoys listening to music. However, David has been wandering more frequently and becoming anxious. Staff members discovered that David’s favorite music was not available, causing him to feel frustrated and disoriented.

9. Rose is an 85-year-old woman with advanced-stage dementia. She lives in a nursing home and enjoys looking at family photos. However, Rose has been wandering more frequently and becoming agitated. Her family discovered that Rose’s hearing aid batteries were dead, causing her to feel frustrated and confused.

10. James is a 75-year-old man with early-stage dementia. He lives with his wife and enjoys working in his garden. However, James has been wandering more frequently and getting lost. His wife noticed that James was not eating enough, causing him to feel weak and disoriented.

What does the research say?

In this study , the researchers were trying to understand something called “wandering” in people with dementia. You see, wandering is when someone with dementia starts walking around aimlessly without any clear reason. It’s like they’re on a journey, but they don’t know where they’re going.

To figure out more about this wandering behavior, the researchers searched for information in places like Medline and Google Scholar. They were looking for articles, chapters, and books that had been published since way back in 1975. They used words like ‘wandering,’ ‘behavioral and psychological symptoms,’ ‘dementia,’ ‘nursing,’ and ‘elopements’ to find this information.

After finding these sources, they looked through them to see if they could find more references that would help them learn even more. So, they were kind of like detectives searching for clues about why people with dementia wander.

Now, let’s talk about why wandering is important to understand. Wandering can be a big problem for people with dementia and those who take care of them, like family members or nursing home staff. Imagine if your grandma or grandpa with dementia suddenly started walking around the neighborhood without knowing where they were. That would be really scary, right? Wandering can lead to bad things happening, and it’s a major reason why some people with dementia end up in nursing homes.

The tricky part is that we don’t really know why people with dementia wander. It’s like a mystery that hasn’t been solved yet. But the researchers think that maybe if we can treat other problems that people with dementia might have, like feeling sad or anxious, it could help reduce wandering.

So, in simple words, this study was all about trying to understand why people with dementia wander and how we can help them and their caregivers deal with this challenging behavior. It’s like trying to solve a puzzle to make life better for people with dementia and their families.

Preventing Wandering in Dementia

Maintain a structured routine.

Maintaining a structured routine can help reduce disorientation and boredom in people with dementia. A consistent routine can provide a sense of familiarity and predictability, making it easier for them to understand their surroundings and stay engaged in daily activities. A structured routine can include regular meal times, exercise, social activities, and a consistent bedtime.

Provide Adequate Stimulation

Providing adequate stimulation can help reduce boredom and restlessness in people with dementia. Activities that are mentally, physically, or socially stimulating can include things like puzzles, music, art, exercise, and conversation. It’s important to find activities that are appropriate for the person’s cognitive and physical abilities, as well as their interests.

Ensure Basic Needs are Met

Ensuring basic needs are met can help reduce the risk of wandering in people with dementia. Make sure they have access to food, water, and a bathroom at all times. Check to see if they are feeling hot, cold, or uncomfortable, and adjust the environment accordingly. If they are experiencing pain or discomfort, speak with their doctor to determine if medication or other interventions are necessary.

Create a Safe Environment

Creating a safe environment can help reduce the risk of injury or accidents in people with dementia. Install locks on doors and windows, remove tripping hazards, and install handrails or grab bars in areas where they may need assistance. Use a monitoring system or alarm to alert you if they wander out of the house or into unsafe areas.

Communicate Clearly and Effectively

Communicating clearly and effectively can help reduce the risk of unmet needs in people with dementia. Use simple, direct language and avoid talking down to them or using complicated sentences. Give them plenty of time to process information and ask clarifying questions if necessary. Use visual cues, such as pictures or signs, to help them understand their surroundings and locate important items.

Wandering in dementia can be frightening and dangerous behavior for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. By understanding the triggers for wandering and taking steps to prevent it, we can help reduce the risk of injury, accidents, and stress. 

Maintaining a structured routine, providing adequate stimulation, ensuring basic needs are met, creating a safe environment, and communicating clearly and effectively are all important strategies for preventing wandering in dementia.

Have you ever cared for someone with dementia who wandered? What strategies have you used to prevent wandering and keep them safe? Let’s start a discussion in the comments section below.

I have lived-experience taking care of my parent with dementia. My goal is to help you overcome challenges involved in family caregiving.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Find Veterinarians

When To Put Down A Dog With Dementia

Just like in humans, our dog’s health can begin to decline as they age.

Not only can they develop complications in their overall health, but they can begin to experience cognitive decline as well.

Canine dementia is fairly common in our older canine friends, leaving many pet parents with questions on when it may be time to say goodbye.

So when should you put down a dog with dementia?

It all comes down to quality of life and what you believe is in the best interest of your dog.

In this article we will discuss the details of canine cognitive dysfunction, and help you better recognize when your pup may be struggling in their condition.

Can Old Dogs Have Dementia?

Our senior canine friends can develop a cognitive condition similar to dementia in humans.

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCD), or dog dementia, is a decline in mental function leading to altered behavior, confusion, change in personality, and other forms of mental decline.

Due to the familiar symptoms present with CCD, this condition is commonly compared to Alzheimer’s or dementia in humans.

Dementia in old dogs may also be called sundowner syndrome, though this mainly refers to a dog experiencing disorientation and confusion at night .

Is Dog Dementia The Same As Alzheimer’s?

Though dog dementia is an entirely different condition than Alzheimer’s in humans, it makes perfect sense as to why the two are compared so often.

Dog dementia involves the aging of the canine brain, and all the cognitive decline that comes along with that reality.

CCD in dogs affects a dog’s memory and comprehension once the condition sets in, often worsening as time goes on.

Dog dementia and Alzheimer’s have many traits in common, so comparing the two can often help owners understand the cognitive decline their dog is undergoing.

One of the main differences between dog dementia and Alzheimer’s is the fact that CCD is expected to be seen in 60-70% of dogs ( source ) as they reach their senior years, while Alzheimer’s is seen in about 11% of the elderly population.

This may mean that dog dementia is often just a result of the normal aging process in a dog’s brain, and may not have as much to do with lifestyle factors or predispositions.

It’s important to note that while canine cognitive dysfunction is thought to be due to standard aging, other factors can put a dog more at risk.

Brain conditions like tumors or previous head trauma can eventually lead to dementia in dogs, as well as some genetic factors.

Signs Of Dementia In Dogs

If you have a senior dog in your life, it’s important to be aware of the signs of cognitive dysfunction in our canine friends.

Keeping an eye out for the potential symptoms can allow you to offer your pup help when it’s needed, as well as be aware of when it may be time to say goodbye.

Some of the most common signs of dog dementia include:

• Not wanting to play as often
• Forgetting normal routines
• Disorientation or confusion
• Forgetting tricks or commands they once knew
• Wandering aimlessly
• Decreased interest in social interaction and activities
• Zoning out or appearing to be blankly staring
• Changes in their sleep cycles
• Changes in appetite
• Increased anxiety or anxious behavior
• Anxiety at night, such as panting and pacing at night
• Challenges learning new tricks
• Abnormal vocalizations
• Accidents around your home, or inappropriate urination/defecation in general

If your senior dog is experiencing any of the above behaviors, it may be time to speak with your veterinarian about the potential for dog dementia.

Can You Treat Dementia In Dogs?

There is no set treatment option for dementia in dogs, but there are a few management options that may offer a dog longevity in their condition.

Ranging from nutritional supplements to changes in their daily routine, there are a few ways to potentially improve a dog’s life with CCD.

Give Additional Supplements

Some experts believe that certain nutritional supplements can delay changes within the brain, as well as improve cognitive function in some dogs with CCD.

Supplements including omega fatty acids, beneficial antioxidants, and medium chain triglycerides may be discussed when a dog is beginning to show signs of dementia.

Mental Exercises

Many believe that keeping a dog mentally fit can help them maintain as much awareness as possible as they develop canine cognitive dysfunction.

This can mean keeping up with tricks and commands they still remember, giving them mentally stimulating toys, socializing them as much as possible, and introducing them to new experiences.

Prescribed Medications

There is currently only one medication that has been approved for managing CCD in dogs.

Anipryl for dogs is used to control the symptoms of CCD in dogs, as well as potentially slow the progression of the condition.

This can only be obtained through a prescription from your veterinarian.

If your dog is beginning to struggle with the effects of dog dementia, you may be wondering how to know when it’s time to say goodbye.

Every situation will vary, but there are a few common signs of a dog suffering in their mental decline.

It may be time to discuss quality of life with your veterinarian if your dog with dementia is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Confusion or disorientation that impacts their lives daily
• Often appearing lost in their normal environment
• Significant decrease in appetite
• Changes in behavior such as aggression, severe depression, and any other abrupt changes
• Frequent abnormal vocalizations
• Signs of distress such as circling, staring at walls, appearing restless, pacing, etc.

If your dog with dementia is experiencing any of the above behaviors, or any other changes that are deeply concerning, it may be time to discuss the possibility of saying goodbye to your furry friend.

Dementia in dogs is a troubling condition that can disrupt a dog’s life.

Only you will know when it’s time to put your dog down based on their pain or suffering.

My name is Amber. I am a dedicated animal lover that turned my passion into my career. I am a Licensed Vet Tech with 12 years of experience in veterinary medicine, but I recently took my career online to help spread accurate information on animal care. With how vast the online world is, I have a strong desire to ensure that the reader always walks away with helpful pet advice. With the experience I’ve gained from my time in this field, I have been able to travel the world, offering my services to as many animal rescues as I can find. If I am not at my laptop, or back home visiting family, you can find me somewhere in the world, cuddling every furry friend that I can find! More About Us

There are 14 comments:

I just put down my 16 yr old Trixi. She declined quickly, I couldnt stand to see her suffer another minute. Endless Wandering, panting, bumping into things, not eating, weird barking at nothing, confused, pacing. Im heart broken.

My 16.5 year old JRT Skittles is doing poorly. She’s basically blind and deaf, and now the doggie dementia. She paces, is sometimes more aggressive, stares at the wall, I have to go outside with her or she won’t potty.

She was on silegeline (spelling?), but it gave her diarrhea. I give her melatonin at night and sometimes a Gabapentin so I can get some sleep. I gave her a trazadone last night and that seems to have set her back. She was still drugged this morning, and seems a bit “off.”

Like so many others here, it’s hard to tell when it’s time to let her go. I’m almost positive it’ll be this year, just not sure when.

Hi Laura. My 14 year old JRT is experiencing some of the same symptoms as Skittles. I have not put her on any meds as she had severe allergies when she was younger. She pees and poops in the house frequently, even though I carry her outside about 20 times a day. She sleeps alot during the day however she also sleeps through the night, so I am fortunate in that regard. She stares at the walls and is deaf and half blind. She will hear me if I talk VERY loud. She still looks forward to her breakfast and supper and the occasional treat. I also think it will be time to let her go sometime this year. It’s nice to know my JRT is not the only one going through this. Best to you and Skittles.

Chris and Patches

Hi Laura, I feel for you. I am going through the same thing with my Jack Russell. I’ve made an appt. with her vet, but can’t be seen until the end of the month. His input will help us make a decision wether to put her down or not. You feel like your playing God, with this decision. Prayers go out to you, to make the decision. 🙏

Our seventeen year old dog ‘Jack’ is a Mouzer. A schnauzer Maltese mix. He’s a sweet guy and has been good therapy for all who have needed him but it feels as though he is the one in need now. He gets lost just walking to the door. He turns in circles, looses his balance and often urinates in the house when we are a few feet from him and would easily open the door for him. He panics when we are gone for 10 minutes, upsetting our equally dog loving neighbors. Since my husbands stroke I have become caregiver to both of them. I think I’m very close to putting him down but I love him so much. He saved me when I needed him most. This will be the hardest thing to do. I just need someone to tell me that it’s time.

Hi my beloved Yorkie Blue has stopped wanting to play together with his toys as we normally do everyday. For the last 2 weeks he’s up all night aimlessly wandering & pacing around the house…Instead of cuddling & sleeping with me as we’ve done every night for 9 years. I rarely get my daily kisses. His eating habits have decreased. It’s the most HEARTBREAKING experience to see him like this.

I’m so mixed up right now. Our 10 year old Frenchie has dementia, I think. That’s what’s tearing me up. Two weeks ago she seemed fine. Then she became a little off her schedule. No potty at bedtime, unless we stood out with her and made her go. Then she started acting like a zombie, like she wasn’t there. We discovered two days ago that she can’t see. I’m not sure if she’s not seeing or not recognizing what she’s seeing. She’s bumping into everything. How can this happen in just two weeks? I don’t know if it’s dementia or not, but it sure ticks most of the boxes. What’s unfair is she never had a period where she acted really old. I don’t want to let her go.

Thank you for your post. My 14 yr old baby has the same symptoms.

My 16 year old rescue poodle has been diagnosed with Canine Dementia. He is also blind and deaf. He has a good appetite but shakes all day, licks everything in sight, barks excessively for no reason, has multiple “accidents”, is confused, staggers and snaps/growls at one of my other poodles. He does not seem to be in any pain. I need to hold him as much as possible to calm him. How do I determine when it is “time”? He does not seem to be in any pain, but how do I make the “quality of life” factor?

Our schnouser, 13.5 years old. He has accidents, quit often, even after being outside. Doesn’t answer to his name much, grumpy in morning and wants to eat always. Drinks like crazy, pants, nips at you when drying him off from rain. Many times, just stars at walls or behind door and is lost. Sleeps most of the day and wanders at night, pacing. My wife is not ready. Know people that have this breed and say 14-15 years if lucky for their life. I believe, after being a quiet obedient dog, full of life and play, chasing squires, which he can’t see anymore – I believe it’s time to say goodbye.

We are deeply in this right now as I listen to my beloved Eddie cry and bark. He is also blind in one eye and mostly deaf. Tears are streaming down my checks as I consider our options for him. I think the kinder gentler thing would be to let him go but I’m the one who is being selfish in holding on and allowing him to suffer not knowing what to do.

How can I make the call?

Our Lucy is a 16 year old Dachshund. She has had old dog disease in the past with pacing, head tilting and going around in circles which was difficult. Over the last several years she has had more periods of disorientation, confusion, vocalization, pacing, anxiety, wanting to eat all the time which seems to be dementia. I can’t hardly go anywhere because she is attached to me and has anxiety separation. She will sometimes not sleep at night and wants to pace around the house and sometimes has potty accidents. She has really been bad this week since I left her alone on Saturday for most of the day. It has been very stressful seeing her suffer so much. I have been wanting to put her to sleep and I really feel guilty about it. My husband and son want to wait and don’t feel it is time but I am the main caregiver and I am at the end of my rope. I have been to the After Hours Clinic in North Little Rock, Ar and they are great. I mainly just wanted to verbalize my feelings and ask whether taking her to the After Hours Clinic would be better than her regular vet if I decide to put her down.

Leslie, thank you for sharing your story as it can help others who may be struggling with the same issues with their dog’s dementia. Putting our pets down can and will often be the hardest thing we can do. Of the hundreds of messages we receive, the number one thing people always mention is the struggle of when to euthanize. If your 16 year old Dachshund isn’t in pain and still has ‘quality of life’ then you can always wait. Only you will be able to make that decision since you are the main care giver. Regarding After Hours Clinics vs your regular vet, if it was me I would go to my regular vet as they will have a history with my canine friend. There are also options of euthanizing at home. Your regular vet might offer that service, where they can come to your home to provide that service.

I am going through the same exact thing with my 15 year old dachshund Sabrina. It is heart wrenching to see the constant pacing and staring off into nothing. Mine is also mostly blind. Thank you for the question as I wonder the same thing daily..

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Synonyms of wandering

• as in rambling
• as in nomadic
• as in roaming
• as in trespassing
• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Thesaurus Definition of wandering

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

• digressionary
• digressional

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• straightforward
• undeviating
• peripatetic
• galavanting
• on the move
• gallivanting
• perambulatory

Thesaurus Definition of wandering  (Entry 2 of 2)

• knocking (about)
• gadding (about)
• kicking around
• vagabonding
• milling (about or around)
• trespassing
• transgressing
• breaking the law
• falling from grace
• backsliding

Thesaurus Entries Near wandering

wandering (into)

Cite this Entry

“Wandering.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wandering. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on wandering

Nglish: Translation of wandering for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of wandering for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, every letter is silent, sometimes: a-z list of examples, more commonly mispronounced words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, popular in wordplay, a great big list of bread words, the words of the week - apr. 12, 10 scrabble words without any vowels, 12 more bird names that sound like insults (and sometimes are), 9 superb owl words, games & quizzes.