Firstly, dogs that are blind generally cope better to humans. They already have a much better nose and hearing than humans, so they are off to a good start. These senses will get even better with time. Time is important, for dog and human, it might take just days, and rarely could it be years. With dogs born blind, they know no different, to them they are “seeing”. Remember, patience is needed for time to pass.
- If you have other pets at home you can get “jingle bells” at any craft store (small pets – a cat collar w/bell) that can be added to the collar of other pets so your blind dogs can easily tell where they are.
- Sew 1 or 2 “jingle bells” onto an elastic pony tail band (used for hair) to slip onto your own ankle, or attach bell to shoe laces, so your blind dog can hear where you are walking.
- Leave a TV or radio playing softly near the pet’s bed (or wherever they spend the most time when you are gone) the sound is soothing, and may help prevent excess barking.
- If your dog uses a crate – turn it on its side, so that the door opens “up” and you can bungee the door in place. This way your dog doesn’t need to worry that the door may only be partially open.
- If you have a smaller dog, avoid picking him/her up to “help” they get to food or other areas. They need to learn on their own, and actually become very confused when picked up and set down.
- Your dog will learn to “map” home and yard in his mind when ready, but you can also put dog on a short lead and encourage to walk around room to room, and around yard. Using treats if needed.
- If your dog hesitates learning to “map” the house, get down on all 4’s with him, as this is tremendous fun for pup and you can slap door, floor, furniture with your key word: Ouch! Or whatever!
- Get down on the floor and crawl around at the dog’s eye level to find anything that might be dangerous. Do the same in your yard look for low growing branches etc.
- Start teaching your dog new “help words” like “Stop” – “Step up” – “Step down” – “Easy” – “Careful” – “Danger” – “Right” – “Left” etc.
- Hearing your voice is very soothing, so talk to you blind dog often. Let him know when you are walking out of a room etc. Even just some “silly chatter” is enjoyable to him. And really is kind of fun!
- Remember to speak to your dog when you are approaching to touch (especially while sleeping) to prevent startling him/her.
