Question
How do I keep a blind diabetic dog safe at home?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
It's hard to watch him bump into things, but most blind dogs learn their home again. Keep the furniture where it is, and talk to him before you touch him. Block off stairs he might miss, and keep his water in one spot. Walk him on a lead on a route he knows. If he went blind quickly or his eyes look sore, see your vet.
What you might notice at home
He learns the room, and then someone moves a chair. He walks off a step he used to see. Some owners end up watching a step or porch edge all day. A baby gate or a closed door can take that worry off you.
Some owners use words as cues, like one word for a step and one for his bowl. Pick a couple of words and use them every time.
What to set up this week
- A clear path from bed to bowl to door.
- A baby gate or a closed door at stairs, if he misses them.
- Water in the same place, always full.
- A lead, even in a garden he knows, until you're sure how he gets around.
What to tell the vet
What he can't do safely any more. Ask whether pain, glaucoma or a sudden cataract means he should see an eye specialist.
Sources
- My diabetic dog is going blindCataracts, and when sight loss needs a vet
- Red, painful, dry or cloudy eyes: what else can happen to the eyes?Sore or red eyes that need a vet
- How do I find a vet or specialist who knows diabetes?Seeing an eye specialist
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My diabetic dog is going blind
Cataracts are common in diabetic dogs. Many cope well if it happens slowly. Ask your vet about surgery.
Q&A
How should walks work for a diabetic dog?
The same walk every day is best. A much harder day can drop his glucose, so ask first.
Q&A
Why is my diabetic dog drinking so much?
Note how much he's drinking compared with a normal week. Your vet will work out why.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.