Don't give up on your dog (with SARDS)

[LisaByrnes]

About 6 years ago I realised my dog was as blind as a bat. For how long she had been blind prior to this, I do not know, because she got around real well. I thought she was on death row 6 years ago. She was diagnosed with SARDS and was not on any type of treatment or medication. Today, we put her to sleep. But she has had 6 years that we thought she would not have had. We have moved 3 times. Every house she adjusted to, with stairs, gardens, everything. We took her on pet friendly holidays, and she loved the beach the best. Don't give up on your dog. They adjust better than humans. The only thing you need to watch out for is behaviour changes. Some vets tell you dogs don't get depression, but I think they do. In the last 6 months, our dog was lethargic and a little disorientated. It wasn't much of a life for her. She was also getting old. Blindness does not mean you put your dog to sleep. Provide a safe caring environment and hopefully your dogs life will be fulfilled. Get this - last weekend I thought my dog was not in a good state. I accidentally dropped a small piece of lettuce from my top balcony to the lower balcony on which she resided. The little bugger felt that lettuce fall, picked it up and ate it. If they don't have their sight their other senses are heightened. Unless your dog has other life threatening issues, please don't put your dog to sleep - they're resilient little buggers!!!!

[Blinddogs.net]

Hi Lisa.. and welcome to the forum

I'm so very sorry for the loss of your pup.. and thank you so much for sharing her story. It sounds like she had 6 great years after going blind.. and was blessed with a wonderful & loving mom that helped her continue to live her life to the fullest!