Blind Dog Day

August 23^rd is Blind Dog Day. Just like people, our canine pals can be afflicted by vision issues, up to and including blindness. However, Fido can still lead a happy and fulfilling life, even if his peepers don’t work properly. A Coral Springs, FL vet discusses blindness in dogs below.

Signs Of Blindness In Dogs

Blindness can happen suddenly or gradually, depending on the cause. Keep an eye out for warning signs. Bumping into things is often a giveaway. You may also notice your pooch not wanting to play, go outside, or even move. Fido may act clumsy, anxious, jumpy, or cranky, and he may get clingy. Your furry pal may also sleep more than usual. There are also visible indicators, such as red, cloudy, or swollen eyes. Excessive thirst can be another red flag.

Causes

Our canine companions can develop many of the same vision problems as people can. Some common issues include cataracts; glaucoma, which is a leading cause of blindness in people; infection; tumors; and injuries. Some pups just lose their vision due to old age, while others may have genetic issues that compromise their sight from puppyhood.  

Breeds

Although any pooch can lose their vision, some breeds are prone to specific vision issues. For instance, Labs and Golden Retrievers are susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), while pugs are prone to eye injuries. Other pups that are at high risk of vision problems include spaniels, huskies, poodles, and collies. White dogs also have elevated risks of both hearing and vision trouble.

Care Tips

One of the remarkable thing about our canine companions is their resilience. Fido often adjusts to vision loss without missing a beat. For the most part, blind dogs are just like any other pup: they really just want love, attention, and, of course, bacon. That said, you will need to make a few adjustments to your furry pal’s care regimen. Taking a few steps to make your home safe and navigable will go a long way. That may entail using things like carpet runners or stick-on odoreaters to help your pooch form and navigate by a mental ‘map’ of his domain. You’ll also need to block access to stairs, pools, fireplaces, and other hazards. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Do you have questions about your dog’s vision or care? Contact us, your local Coral Springs, FL pet hospital, anytime!