What would you do if your dog went blind? Many of us would not know the first thing to do to make them comfortable. Whether your dog lost their vision, or you have recently decided to adopt a hard-of-seeing dog, these tips and tricks will help you navigate this new world for both you and your dog!
Use Different Scents and Textures
Because your dog cannot see, it's important to help them navigate your home in some other way. Dogs have an excellent sense of smell, so one thing many owners of blind dogs do is use scent to help their dogs differentiate which room they are in. You can use dog-safe essential oil sprays on your cushions or bed, or unlit candles in each room, each with a different scent. Some people choose to use specific cleaning products in each room of their house as well.
Another way you can help your dog safely navigate the home is to utilize textures under their feet. Hardwood, rugs, carpets, and other flooring options will all feel different to your dog. Some owners of blind dogs will put down a specific kind of rug, or anything with a unique texture, in each doorway of their home so that their dog can always know that they are entering a new room. It is also highly recommended to put your dog on a leash and walk them through the house any time the furniture is rearranged, or after a move, so they can safely familiarize themselves with the layout.
Dog-Proof Your Home
It's also important to be sure that your home is free of any hazards for your blind dog. You'll want to get on your hands and knees and move around each room carefully to identify any potential risks. The corners of all furniture should have covers on them. Stray items should be picked up off the floor.
Consider also using gates or any other type of block for staircases. When you are home with your dog, it's best to keep them in an area of the house where you can easily keep an eye on him, so gates can also be used for that purpose.
Giving your dog a special "spot" in your home where he can rest is also a great idea. You can train your dog to go to his or her crate, bed, or a special spot on the couch. This area should be comfortable and clean. This area will be your dog's home base so you can keep a watchful eye on them. When you have to leave your dog home alone, it's best to keep them in a crate, or a small room free of any hazards. This is especially important for a special needs dog.
Some owners choose to place a special kind of collar or vest/harness on their blind dog, called a "halo." This device acts as a bumper, to keep them from accidentally running into furniture or walls. This can be helpful for a newly blind dog, or a blind dog in a new environment.
Tips for Training a Blind Dog
Because your dog can't see, it's important to use specific verbal cues when training. Some owners like to implement hand gestures in their training, but this cannot be done in this case. It's important to use the same cue every time you ask your dog for a command, so they don't get confused.
A clicker can be a very effective tool for hard-of-seeing dogs, as it makes a unique sound. To implement a clicker into training, simply click the device and immediately give your dog a treat. Repeat this until your dog expects a treat when he or she hears the click. Now, each time you give a command, and your dog completes the action you wanted, use the clicker to mark this behavior, and give them their reward. Soon enough, the sound of the clicker will be all it takes to get your dog to come to you.
And of course, if you hit any roadblocks during training, it's always a good idea to enlist the help of a professional dog trainer - in this case, one that specializes in training blind dogs.
Keep an “I’m Blind” Tag on Your Dog
It's important to keep your dog properly identifiable as blind. Along with their rabies tags, microchip tags, and name tags, your dog should wear an "I'm blind" tag. If your dog gets lost, anyone who finds them will know right away that they can't see. Blind dogs are easily startled, so this information is useful for anyone new coming in contact with your dog, and they'll know how to talk to them to keep them calm.
Use Your Community for Support
Whether your dog went blind due to old age or an illness or old age, or they were born blind, it's important to keep them healthy and happy with veterinary care. Some vets specialize in special needs animals, so it's a great idea to reach out online or with friends to find a local veterinarian for your dog. Social media can be a great tool for finding these resources.
It's also very important to make sure your neighbors, friends, and family are all aware that your dog can't see. They will need to use their voice to let him or her know they are approaching so they don't scare them. And they'll need to be aware of any potential risks, like leaving a purse or boots on the floor in your dog's path.
Social media can also be used to reach out to owners of other blind dogs, so you may meet them and share tips! Remember, while this new journey can be daunting, it will be very fulfilling. Hiccups along the way are to be expected. But don't forget to give your dog lots of love and support as you both learn all about their abilities and needs.
