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Pet Ohana
The Hawaiian Humane Society
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There are a number of things to do that will help a blind dog get along
Question: A friend can no longer take care of her dog, Stevie, who is blind. I absolutely adore him but am worried about caring for a dog with a disability. Any advice?
Answer: It takes an extraordinary breed of human to open heart and home to a special-needs dog. We applaud your compassion and interest in being the best caregiver possible.
Like blind people, dogs without sight can do very well with the senses they do have. So tailor your environment and behavior so that you speak to Stevie's heightened sense of smell, taste and touch.
Some of the basics include surveying your home to minimize sharp-cornered furniture and being careful to never leave obstacles on the floor. Learn to walk with a heavy foot and be very vocal with Stevie. Introduce him to his new home by walking him on a leash slowly several times through the house so that he becomes familiar with your floor plan. You can also use a clicker and treats to help him acclimate. Any time Stevie walks in an appropriate direction, click, which lets him know that what he was doing was right, then immediately offer him a treat.
You can help Stevie distinguish between rooms through tactile differences, such as raised doorway thresholds, or using rugs or runners.
To make this a fun experience, play the recall game: Stand a few feet away and call him to come to you. Once he gets to you, praise him heavily. Do this at least a few times a day, and slowly increase the distance between you both.
Once he feels secure, settle into an exercise routine, starting with a quiet pathway. A calm and assertive demeanor will help build his confidence in you as his provider. So try not to coddle him, worry or be hesitant in your actions.
Q: I also have a cat. How should I make the introduction?
A: Try to keep them separate for a while to allow Stevie time to build confidence. Keep Stevie leashed and facilitate a slow introduction. First impressions are lasting ones, and you want the two to get off to a good start.
Stevie should be allowed to smell the cat's things before he enters the home for the first time. Once he's inside, gently ring a bell when the cat comes around. Then place a bell collar around the cat's neck. Remember to reward both the cat and Stevie any time that they are together. All of their initial interactions should be monitored to ensure that they are both having pleasant experiences.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail, hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.