Owner Survey of and Response to Behavioral Changes in Dogs with Vision Loss

Abstract

Survey data on pet behavioral changes and owner responses over a three-month period were collected from 15 owners of dogs diagnosed with blindness. The data showed increases in aggression toward the owners (minor changes), inappropriate elimination (minor changes), reaction to noises or odors (moderate changes), the amount of time spent alongside the owners (major changes), collisions with objects/people (major changes), and sleeping/inactive periods (major changes). The surveys also indicated decreased barking (mod erate changes) and interest in going for walks (moderate changes). Collisions and stumbling were considered troublesome by the owners. Most owners had concentrated on speaking to their dogs more frequently, not changing the layout of their furniture, and advising others that their dog was blind. After three months, seven owners said they had become accustomed to life with their blind pet, and eight owners indicated that their pet had adjusted to life without sight. It is recommended that veterinarians inform owners of our results, as this will help them deal with the sorrow they feel when their dog is diagnosed as blind, and will also provide them with the appropriate understanding of the needs of their pets. For instance, owners should be informed of the facts that blind dogs attempt to compensate for their lack of vision through audition and olfaction, and that they require dietary management because of their reduced activity level, and require practical management to avoid collisions. This will assist blind dogs and their owners to gradually adjust to life without vision.