Blind Dog Rescue Alliance is a group of volunteers spread throughout the United States and Canada dedicated to helping blind and visually impaired dogs by rescuing dogs in shelters, assisting blind dog owners, and educating the public about these wonderful dogs.
They offer the following tips for living with a blind dog:
10. Put jingling tags or bells on other dogs. That way your blind dog will know where they are.
9. Clicker training can be very helpful in training a blind dog.
8. Teach your blind dog the “watch” command, for when things are in his way. “Step” is also a useful command, when there is a step in front of him.
7. Get down on your hands and knees, to your blind dog’s level, and look for things that could harm him. Sharp table edges, etc. can be hazards for your blind dog.
6. Do not re arrange the furniture. Blind dogs learn the way the house is set out, and can have trouble getting around if it is changed.
5. Use scented oils or perfumes to spray things that your blind dog could bump into.
4. Join the blind dog support group on Yahoo: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/blinddogs/
3. Read Living With Blind Dogs by Caroline Levin. http://www.petcarebooks.com/
2. Textures seem to help some blind dogs. Example: In the yard, we have rocks around the pool. When he feels the pebbles, he knows that he is getting close to the pool. When he feels the sidewalk instead of the grass, he knows that he is close to the door. Another possible use of textures is to put a rug under the water bowl to help the dog identify when he or she is in the right place.
1. Adopt a seeing companion dog who can show your blind dog the ropes.
Blind Dog Rescue Alliance also fosters dogs like Ice Pops (shown above) who is available for adoption. Check out their available dogs.
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!
This is a really useful top ten for me as my dog is now visual impaired.
Great piece! It’s very difficult owning a special needs dog!