Just like people, some dogs are born blind, develop sudden blindness, or gradually lose their vision. If blindness develops slowly or in just one eye, you may not even notice your pet’s handicap because she will adjust her behavior to compensate. Visually impaired dogs navigate their homes quite well, just as you do in the dark. But move some furniture around, and you’ll soon spot the problem.
Causes
Blindness is associated with many illnesses that affect the eyes—or involve the whole body. Causes include corneal diseases, cataracts (sometimes associated with diabetes mellitus), liver disease, seizures, poisonings, infectious diseases, hemorrhage, trauma, bleeding disorders, cancer, glaucoma, injury to the brain’s vision centers, and progressive retinal deterioration.
Sudden vision loss can accompany temporary or reversible conditions, but slow, progressive vision loss is usually permanent.
What you can do at home
If your dog acts confused, stumbles, or bumps into things, test her to see if she can navigate a new furniture arrangement or an unfamiliar environment. Sudden blindness is more obvious, because the dog usually displays dramatic behavior changes.
When to call the veterinarian
If you suspect your dog is blind, take her to your veterinarian for diagnosis. See the doctor immediately if blindness occurs suddenly or if your pet exhibits other symptoms of illness.
What your veterinarian will do
Your doctor will ask you about your dog’s behavior and perform a careful examination. The veterinarian may use eye drops to dilate the pupils and anesthetize the eyes. This allows the doctor to thoroughly examine the interior of the eye and measure eye pressures. Depending on what the examination shows, your dog may need blood tests and X-rays. Or your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist (a veterinarian specializing in the treatment of eye disorders). Promptly treating some conditions may restore vision. However, vision loss in pets usually is permanent.
Although most blind dogs live normal, happy lives, you may need to make a few accommodations to ensure your precious pet’s safety. For example, keep blind dogs in a securely fenced yard. Be patient with your dog if you rearrange the furniture, or avoid rearranging things at all.
