cataracts

[teeny567]

Our mix breed has cataracts, he functions well but at 16 although the vet claims he is 13, we claim he is 2 the way he acts, we worry how bad this will get.We don't want him to be blind and have to put him "down".The vet says it is a sign of aging and just go with the flow.Surgery is beyond our financial means, I am not working right and no way will we be approved for financial anything.anyone else had to deal with this?

[Misfits4Me]

Hello & welcome....Unlike people, dogs adjust to blindness very well!!  You do have to keep things the same such as don't move the furniture around, etc..Without change, they can navigate exceptionally....Things need to be kept in same in the yard, also....No odd things that they can run into or strip over...

You can also tie a little bell on your belt loop, so he will know where your at.....

Dogs have a great sense of smell and it even becomes more efficient when they can no longer see.....

There is NO reason to even think about putting this guy down.....He can continue to lead a Happy Productive Life even without his sight......Good luck to you & him and enjoy your guy....Karla

[BluCrystal]

Cataracts in dogs are progressive and do result in blindness.  I work with animals every day, and have worked with blind dogs as well.  They can lead very happy lives as long as their owners are willing to give them the extra attention they need with getting around.  There is no reason to put your dog down due to blindness.