How to care for blind and deaf older dogs (2023)

Taking care of blind and deaf dogs

A difficult period in a dog's life is the last 20-25%. As dogs age, changes occur in their bodies that lead to vision and hearing loss. Many dogs of this age also have arthritis, mobility issues, and other physical limitations associated with the natural (though sometimes distressing or painful) effects of aging. Most dogs will experience some form of visual impairment, and some will develop cataracts. Hearing impairment is common, and arthritis and mobility issues are a common problem, particularly in overweight dogs.

This process is not dissimilar to that of the aging human being in that as we approach old age, we don't see or hear as well, can develop arthritis, and generally "slow down." It may take us a little longer to get up. , turn up the TV a bit louder and you need glasses to read the newspaper. We can feel confused or tired more easily, and suffer from weight gain or loss of appetite due to our changing needs.

It's typical for a veterinarian to have an appointment with a healthy older dog and find that the animal has a history of not hearing when the owner comes home, doesn't see as well, and has difficulty climbing stairs or general mobility. These things are a common part of this aging process, although they can seem annoying to owners.

If you are one of these owners, you surely want your beloved pet to be as comfortable and happy as possible. What can you do? Here are some tips for living with dogs who are blind, deaf or have arthritis. Your dog may have some or all of these symptoms, so I hope you find this tip helpful.

Tips for living with blind and deaf dogs

Blindness is defined as loss of vision in both eyes. There are many reasons dogs go blind including glaucoma, corneal problems, cancer, trauma, retinal disease and cataracts. For a more comprehensive list and explanation, see our article onblindness in dogs.

Blind dogs require special care but can live long and happy lives. Many dogs adjust to blindness or vision loss fairly quickly and do well by relying on their other senses. A dog's sense of smell is very good, as is their hearing. Many older dogs that lose both hearing and sight rely on their sense of smell. dr Rhea Morgan wrote a very good article about itTips for living with a blind dogwhich I think is really cool.

Living with a blind dog is one thing, but caring for a blind and deaf dog is much more difficult. Depending on the degree of hearing loss, some dogs hear nothing and others can hear certain frequencies. Some can hear a murmur of something and understand that it is from a familiar person, but they do not understand what is being said.

Deaf dogs rely on smell and touch to tell when someone is nearby, allowing them to get much closer to their human companions than before.

In my opinion, blind dogs with some hearing really appreciate you talking to them. Losing the senses can be disorienting and frightening, and a soothing voice can help orient and guide them.

Here are some tips to help you help your dog with vision and hearing loss live a happy and healthy life.

1.Be patient. When dealing with a blind or blind and deaf dog, it is important to be patient. They often navigate more slowly, especially when some of their other senses are impaired. Most dogs end up adjusting very well, but it can take a little while.

2.Be consistent with your dog. Consistency is important when dealing with a blind and deaf dog. They rely heavily on memory and enjoy predictable routines for stability and comfort.

a. Feed your dog and keep the water in the same place. Some dogs like fountains because they can feel the vibration of the pump to orient themselves to their food and water areas. Some blind and deaf dog owners believe their dogs drink healthier water after installing a pet drinking fountain.

b. Leave your bed in the same place.

C. Minimize renovation or furniture changes when possible. Some dogs compensate for their vision loss so well that many pet owners don't realize their pet is blind until they move the furniture and realize the dog suddenly bumps into things. Several dogs are also found blind when they are taken to the animal hospital, crashing into walls and cabinets in the unfamiliar rooms.

i.e. Having a fenced yard, as we'll discuss later, also helps minimize changes to the landscape (like planting or cutting down trees or shrubs) that can be disorienting for dogs with vision loss.

3.Routine. Disabled dogs seem to appreciate a regular routine. They get out at the same time every day and night, walk the block the same way, and eat in the same place at the same time. If your dog can hear something, you can use a bell or other soft noise (even a soda can with rocks can work) as a call to let your dog know it's time to eat. If you maintain a routine, most dogs will learn to wait at the bowl at the scheduled time.

4.neatness. If you have a dog with vision or hearing problems, keeping your home consistent and fairly tidy is ideal. If your dog has a preferred route from the door to the bedroom, don't leave toys, shoes, or other things lying around that he might trip over. If you move things, put them back. If you have guests and add two more chairs in a room for extra seating, put them back when you're done so your dog doesn't get confused or hurt trying to move around them.

5.dog security. Once you realize your dog is blind, it helps if you try to look around your home from the dog's perspective. It can even help to get down on the ground and see things from your level. It may sound silly, but it can reveal some hidden dangers that might otherwise be overlooked.

a. Look for sharp objects that he or she might trip over. Do not leave coat hangers or other sharp objects on the floor, and be careful of corners that can bruise or injure sensitive skin. Keep cabinets closed (a dog can accidentally bump against an edge and cause injury). Cover sharp edges with soft foam or other materials; those designed for baby-proof homes are particularly useful.

b. Put up barriers around swimming pools and hot tubs, and make sure your dog doesn't have access to ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.

C. Use baby gates to restrict access to open stairways, decks, balconies and uneven walkways.

i.e. Block access to fire pits and secure all pokers and doors so your dog cannot accidentally bump into them and injure themselves.

me. Do not light candles near low tables; Dogs can knock over lit candles with their tails.

F. Eliminate flimsy carpeting that can bunch up and cause injury from trips or falls.

6.let your dog run. Of course, some pet owners want to pick up their pets and take them with them. This may seem like a courtesy, but when you bring your dog into a new room, he or she has no idea where he or she is. As they move from room to room, they can develop awareness.

7.talk to your dog. If your dog seems lost and can hear something, you can talk to your dog so it can use sounds to identify your location. (If your dog can't hear anything, this doesn't help.)

8.Don't startle your dog. Dogs that don't see or hear well are easily startled. They can develop anxiety and always seem restless. If your dog can hear at least a little, you can make a noise or talk to him before you touch or approach him so he knows where you are. Touching your dog suddenly can startle it, and some dogs will bite if surprised. If your dog cannot see or hear well, it will be difficult to announce your presence. You can walk heavily towards your dog so that he can feel the vibration of your footsteps. Another option is to use a buffer between you and him. For example, to wake up your dog, you can gently touch it with a toy. If he is startled and bites, bite the toy, not your hand.

9.Do not brush dog whiskers. Many dogs use their whiskers to perceive the world and will use this ability more often if they have vision and hearing loss. Whiskers, also called vibrissae, can act as sensitive antennae, detecting objects, air movement, and even vibrations such as those produced when a door is open or someone walking by. Do not allow your groomer to trim these hairs, or if they do, give your dog extra space and consideration until they grow back.

10Wear bells and ID. Attach a small bell to your dog's collar so he knows where he is. Make sure your pet is well identified with a collar and microchip. If your dog runs away for any reason, he won't have all of his senses to help him get home and will rely on human means to find his way to you. An ID tag and microchip collar may be the only way to return a lost dog to its owner. An ideal pet tag will tell anyone who finds your dog that you are deaf and blind and should include your contact information. Another option is bandanas, which indicate that your dog has special needs.

11Use leashes and harnesses for your dog. Dogs with vision and hearing loss must be kept on a leash at all times when not in a fenced family yard. Dogs can pick up another dog's scent and run away. It doesn't take many long to find their way to the freeway, where they may be hit by a car or another dog. A dog without hearing or sight cannot react or avoid possible danger. Collars are best, but harnesses are a good alternative as they fit around the chest instead of the neck. In times of danger, this protects the delicate neck tissues from injury and damage.

12Dangers for dogs outdoors. Dogs with hearing and vision problems should not be allowed outside alone unless in a fenced family yard as mentioned above. It's important to regularly inspect your yard and yard for potential hazards, including broken fences, broken flower pots, garden debris, sharp edges, broken gates, and more; all of this can cause trauma.

13Plan to keep having fun. Dogs that can't hear or see still want to have fun. Touch, taste, and smell are their remaining senses, which can be used to their advantage for long periods of time. Choose toys that dogs can respond to with some hearing (some have loud or high-pitched squeaks designed for such dogs) or even textured toys. Some dogs like stuffed animals and enjoy the feel of soft stuffed animals; You can also buy toys that you can use to hide treats and tap into your dog's sense of smell. Dogs also appreciate the feel of the grass and the smell of fresh outside air or the feeling of the balmy sun, so don't neglect a simple afternoon in nature.

Blind and deaf dogs can live happy and rewarding lives with your help. I hope these tips will help you enrich your pet's days even more.