Delicious
Digg
Google
YahooRemove obstacles that might be in the regular pathways of the dog. Keep doorways clear and block off stairways. Be careful not to set items down in doorways or pathways; always use tabletops for setting items down so as to keep your dog from running into items he’s not used to having around.
Don’t make changes to furniture arrangements. If you’ve been watching a lot of HGTV and you feel like you have to rearrange the living room, walk your dog through the living room on a leash to allow him to familiarize himself with the new surroundings.
Be careful not to startle your dog when you enter a room. Let him know you’re there by gently saying his name. When you approach him, laying your hand softly on his back will let him know you’re close.
Encourage his other senses. Your dog’s hearing and sense of smell will definitely improve with the loss of his sight. Play music in the most frequented room so that he feels comforted by the sounds. Light different smelling candles in the rooms that he frequents so that he can begin to recognize his location based on the smells he notices.
Play to his strengths. Your dog’s sense of touch will also become heightened. If you place area rugs in specific locations throughout the home, he will be able to use those as a guide as he maneuvers blindly.
Take precautions with your outdoor space as well. If you have stairs or a deck, it might be a good idea to take your dog outside on a leash for a while. You can use the tip in Step 5 to signal changes in levels in the yard as well.
Anytime you introduce your dog to a new environment, you should always use a leash and practice patience. It might be a good idea to have a command, such as “wait” or “careful” that you can use to slow your dog down if he is unleashed and headed towards a safety hazard.
