My shih tsu/poodle, Bear, is blind. He also has diabetes. He developed cataracts and went blind rather quickly. We got his diabetes under control, but it was too late for cataract surgery.

The first clue that he couldn't see was when he tried to get on my bed and kept missing. Now I lift him up and put him down when needed. He does fine with the couch. I pat the seat twice and he knows it's OK.

At first he was a little confused. He learned to listen for the other dogs' jingling tags. He 'senses' objects that are near him so he doesn't run into ALL of them. He feels the floor for vibrations when I walk. He has a very detailed map of the house and yard imprinted on his mind. It took a while for him to get a grip, but I didn't pamper him a lot and he figured it out for himself. I do try to give him a little consideration when I walk around him instead of expecting him to get out of my way.

Bear will let me know when it's time for supper or his evening shot.

There is a lot of help at the Blind dogs Message board at ezboard. I visit there every weekday morning.

Does your mom's dog have cataracts or was there another reason for the blindness?

Mary