Blindness in dogs

As dogs get older, they can lose their vision, much like humans do. Unlike us, dogs rely more on their sense of smell and hearing than their sight. You might notice signs such as them bumping into things or feeling nervous in new places. This can happen because of ageing, injuries, or health issues like glaucoma or diabetes. Spotting these signs early helps us give them the care they need. By adjusting their surroundings and routines, we can help our dogs live well, even if their eyesight isn't as sharp as it once was.

What is blindness in dogs?

Blindness in dogs refers to the loss of vision in one or both eyes, which can occur due to various factors such as eye diseases, injuries, or neurological conditions affecting the brain's ability to interpret visual signals. This condition can either develop gradually over time, commonly seen in ageing dogs, or occur suddenly due to trauma or acute illness. While the exact prevalence of blindness in dogs is difficult to determine, it is more frequently observed in middle-aged and senior dogs compared to younger ones.

Blindness itself is typically not life-threatening, but it can significantly impact a dog's quality of life and requires careful management by a veterinarian. Dogs are generally resilient and can adapt well to gradual vision loss, although sudden blindness may necessitate immediate veterinary attention and adjustments in their care. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor changes in a dog's vision and ensure appropriate intervention to maintain their overall health and well-being.

Common symptoms of blindness in dogs

Blindness in dogs can often go unnoticed at first glance, as it doesn't always visibly alter their appearance. A blind dog could start bumping into things or getting lost in places they used to know well. They might also not react normally when something comes close to their eyes.

You can also tell if a dog is losing their sight by looking at their eyes. They might appear cloudy or change colour to white or blue. Sometimes, their eyes could look red or swollen. These signs can vary depending on why the dog is going blind, so it's important to keep an eye out and talk to a vet if you notice any changes.

Causes of blindness in dogs

Blindness in dogs can be caused by various reasons. Older dogs and those with diabetes often develop cataracts, clouding the eye lens and hindering sight gradually. Glaucoma, marked by increased eye pressure, can harm the retina and cause blindness if untreated. Inflammation inside the eye, called uveitis, may also impair vision, sometimes affecting the retina or optic nerve.

Certain breeds are prone to genetic conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), where the retina deteriorates slowly, leading to eventual blindness. Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) can swiftly impair vision without a clear cause, particularly affecting middle-aged females and certain breeds. Traumatic injuries to the eye or head, such as severe eye trauma or brain disease, can also result in sudden blindness. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for managing your dog's vision loss effectively.

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Diagnosing Blindness In Dogs

Ensuring prompt veterinary care is crucial if you suspect your dog may be experiencing blindness. During the examination, your vet will thoroughly assess your dog's eye health and overall physical condition, including vital signs and reflexes. To rule out underlying conditions like diabetes or Cushing’s disease, diagnostic tests such as blood glucose monitoring and urinalysis may be necessary. They may also conduct specialised eye tests such as tonometry to measure eye pressure and Schirmer tear tests to evaluate tear production. Depending on these evaluations, your vet might recommend a referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist for more detailed vision assessments like electroretinography.

What are the available treatments for blind dogs?

Treatment for blindness in dogs depends on the underlying cause and aims to manage symptoms rather than restore vision, as canine blindness is typically permanent once it occurs. If one eye is affected and the other is at risk, interventions may be applied to slow or prevent further vision loss. For progressive conditions like retinal degeneration or cataracts, treatments may include antioxidants or other supportive therapies aimed at preserving remaining vision. In cases where one eye is causing pain and cannot regain vision, surgical removal might be recommended. Addressing systemic health issues such as high blood pressure or infections may also impact vision and require specific treatments. Consulting with a veterinary ophthalmologist can provide specialised care tailored to the dog's individual condition and needs.

How to support a blind dog

Supporting a blind dog means keeping their environment safe and consistent. Clear paths and avoiding moving furniture are crucial to prevent confusion. Teach family, especially kids, to tidy up toys to avoid accidents.

Use clear verbal cues to help your dog navigate by sound. Consider a trainer who specialises in teaching auditory commands, which are important for blind dogs. Use scents like lemon oil to mark hazards and help your dog recognize different areas.

Ensure your dog has a regular feeding schedule with nutritious food for their health. Show them lots of love and attention; these are crucial for their happiness and adjustment to blindness. 

Final thoughts:

Living with a blind dog requires patience and understanding, but it's a journey filled with love and resilience. By making small adjustments at home and providing consistent care, you can help your furry companion live a happy and fulfilling life. Early detection and awareness of blindness symptoms are crucial, and supporting resources can make a significant difference. Regular veterinary check-ups and consultations can provide valuable guidance in managing your dog's specific needs.

It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life. 

Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.

When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier. 

We offer quality of life assessments from qualified vets, specialist grief counselling, at home euthanasia from dedicated end of life veterinarians, as well as cremation services and memorial options to help remember your pet for their unique character.

We are with you at every step of the journey.

To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.