As a pet owner, there is nothing worse than seeing our dogs suffer – especially as they get older. Similar to humans, a dog’s eyesight worsens over the years - with the potential to go blind. While life with a blind dog is certainly different than dogs with normal eyesight, it’s not as difficult as you may think. Here is guide on caring for your blind dog. They Still Have Their Other Senses Even though your dog lost their sight, they still have four other senses – taste, touch, sound, and most importantly, smell. Dogs interact with the world primarily through smell. They are able to know where and what things are using their nose. When combined with taste, touch, and sound, it makes life for blind dog easier. Keep Them Safe Since your blind dog can’t see where they are going, you are going to have to take some extra safety precautions. For example, enlist the help of a baby gate – especially if you have stairs in your home. Block off any area where your dog may get injured – like a pool – and get rid of any sharp objects. And, don’t let your dog run around outside off-leash – especially in an unfamiliar territory. Make Mealtime Pleasant If your dog is recently blind, they are most likely still adjusting to life without sight. This could mean they will have trouble eating or finding their food bowl. Most dogs will smell when their dinner is ready, but they may have trouble actually locating the bowl. For the first few days, bring them their food bowl and touch their chin to the edge. Most pups will catch on quickly. Don’t Rearrange The House Since your dog can’t see, moving furniture or items in the house can confuse and disorient them. Make sure to create (or keep) a space in your house for them and leave it that way. This means keeping their bed, toys, food and water bowls, and kennel in a separate space where they can easily find them. Leave The Radio or Television On Blind dogs will feel more comfortable alone if you leave the television or radio playing. Not only will it keep them calm during your absence, it also helps them stay oriented. Furthermore, a blind dog cannot see the outside world – so they can’t see you when you pull into the driveway. Having background noise will help comfort them. Give Them Clues To help your dog get around the house with ease, leave them little clues. For example, place a wind chime near the outside door. This will help teach them where the door is and make it easier for them to let you know when they need to go outside. Another helpful “clue” is to place mulch or bark chips around trees, buildings (such as a shed or garage), or other larger objects to help “warn” your dog they are there. Socialize Them Blind dogs still need exercise and socialization. When taking them for a walk, make sure you invest in a harness rather than a collar as well as a shorter lead to avoid tripping. When socializing with other dogs, take things slowly as your blind pup won’t be able to “read” the other dogs body language. One way your blind dog can enjoy a walk is with a Pet Rover stroller. Your pup will still be able to get outside but you won't have to worry about them getting injured. And, make sure other humans know your dog is blind. They can wear a bandanna or vest that says “I’m Blind”, for example. Adding an identification tag to their collar that says “I’m Blind” can be a lifesaver in the event they get lost. Life with a blind dog doesn’t have to be difficult! Just use these tips and tricks to make you – and your dog’s – life as easy and calm as possible.
