Blind Dog Information
Surveys
Home ] Coping and Help ] Diseases ] Links ] Message Board ] Related Diseases ] Breed Related ] General Health ]
Blind Dog Emergency Pack ] Blind Dog Locations ] [ Surveys ] Recent Additions ]

 

This might provide the answers to your questions, a person may have asked the question you want to ask already, and people have responded to that question. You are invited to answer as many questions as you can now, and in the course of time you could re-visit, and answer some more. This will build a better overall picture.
If no one has asked the question on your mind, you can set it her, the system is flexible enough for alternative answers to be added by other visitors.
So here we go, here are the results of all surveys - Click here to either vote, or make your own survey


What was the cause of your dogs blindness?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
SARDS50336.11
PRA705.03
Born blind493.52
Cataracts976.96
Diabetes946.75
Glaucoma1349.62
Dry eye60.43
Neglect by others120.86
Primary lens luxation130.93
Bad luck60.43
combination, diabetes, cataracts, glaucoms100.72
Traumatic injury181.29
Retinal Detachment412.94
Optic Neuritis231.65
genic, lens luxation90.65
ehrlichiosis (tick disorder)60.43
Unknown261.87
she went into coma while coming out of a spay surgey50.36
CARRIED BY MOTHER DOG, GENETIC151.08
age161.15
cat--URI20.14
Corneal Ulcers151.08
Unknown171.22
Retinal degeneration120.86
Combination of Cataracts, Glaucima & genetics30.22
juvenile cataracts/genetic80.57
Either PRA or RD--"medical mystery" according to Cornell eye specialists20.14
microphthalmia90.65
detached retna60.43
limited vision due to microphthalmia and starburst pupils20.14
toxic retinopathy10.07
Dog fight, eye came out, detached optic nerve40.29
uveitis70.50
blasto mycosis181.29
histoplasmosis10.07
cat scratched eye cataracts, glaucoma120.86
I don't know161.15
SARDS - But what causes SARDs????453.23
SARDS - But what causes SARDs????90.65
he got on a fight with a porkypine30.22
diabetes100.72
born with sick eyes50.36
cataracts and then detached retinas40.29
lens displacement30.22
optic nerve hypoplasia30.22
sprayed with unknown compound20.14
ChronicSuperficialKerititis,(Pannus)20.14
Ueveitis30.22
Pannus30.22
Parvo Injection10.07
post-op complications to cataract surgery20.14
Frog Spit....10.07
ulcer caused by vestibular syndrom as a result of an inner ear infection10.07
Told it was sards%2C I think it was the sterroids10.07
Hyper pigmentation causing glaucoma10.07
immune-mediatied retinitis10.07
Secondary Glaucoma %28Injury related%2910.07
meningitis and bad luck10.07
PPM10.07
Cataracts then lens luxation10.07
ivermectin overdose10.07


Is there a link between PRA and Cushing's Disease
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
My dog just has PRA3842.22
My dog has PRA and Cushing's Disease910.00
my dog has PRA and other autoimmune disease33.33
my dog has pra11.11
My dog has PRA - Not sure about Cushing's22.22
my dog has Sards and Cushing`s1314.44
glaucoma and cushings44.44
na55.56
My dog just has SARDS1516.67


What is the age your dog went blind?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Born Blind324.85
1162.42
2152.27
3182.73
4203.03
5345.15
6629.39
79714.70
88913.48
9649.70
10497.42
11426.36
12274.09
13213.18
15101.52
1471.06
not totally blind yet253.79
7 weeks10.15
7 weeks10.15
10 months30.45
6 weeks30.45
Now age 2, almost totally blind. Seemingly progressive.30.45
2 1/2 years10.15
4 months20.30
Born with limited vision30.45
blind in one eye only71.06
Almost bilnd at 3 1/220.30
DIED10.15
2-one eye only10.15
born blind in one eye20.30
Botrn with CEA, now has PRA too10.15
Mt dog was never the same after her last Parvo Injectio10.15


Is there a link between SARD's and Cushing's Disease
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
My dog just has SARD's8934.10
My dog has SARD's and Cushing's Disease7327.97
My dog has SARDS and other autoimmune disease20.77
My dog has SARDS and Hypothyroidism2710.34
my dog has SARD'S and high triglycerides62.30
my dog has SARD's and thyroid probllems31.15
My dog has SARDS and possiboe hypothyroidism (results in low normal range)103.83
My dog has SARDS, Cushing's Disease and Hypothyroidism134.98
My dog has Sards and calcium oxalate kidney stones31.15
my dog just have cushing d41.53
my dog just has sard's51.92
My dog has SARD's, Cushings symptoms but negative tests166.13
Ethyoxine in foods ( resulting in pancreatitis)10.38
autoimmune disease10.38
hypothyroidism31.15
diabetes10.38
NA10.38
Sards%2Cweight gain%2Cconfusion20.77
cancerr10.38


My dog copes with blindness -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Really good, in fact it is not a problem5314.13
Reasonably well, only minor things are a problem10427.73
There is a lot of sleeping, but when awake has no troubles246.40
There has been a cessation of play activities, can manages otherwise256.67
There are some major problems with things like steps and stairs112.93
Most of the time not a problem, but some days of confusion328.53
Really well, but and accident puts things back00.00
We sometimes see signs of coping well71.87
There is definitly a problem with all aspects61.60
There is definitly a problem with all aspects, but it is early days yet236.13
After a good deal of time to get used to blindness, there seems to be no quality of life20.53
Coping with most things but has trouble finding her way around133.47
Sleeps a good bit but when awake does really well, very active51.33
He's not completely blind yet. Working on a lot of verbal ques. Some disorientation, doing pretty well.71.87
Can manage almost everything except going "down" stairs.82.13
He ran the Idiatarod twice, nothing bother him10.27
Much better than I would.123.20
He does very well except when he steps on new surfaces and then he is very cautious and depends on verbal cues to continue.20.53
Doesn't know he has limited vision.41.07
Lessening of play activities, more sleeping (depressed?), adjusting fairly well.61.60
Doesn't slow down enough, now has the nickname "Scarface"20.53
She did well with the blindness until her eyes were removed. Now she can not find her way around at all.20.53
Usually manages ok, some days of disorientation, more sleeping, believe depressed71.87
very loud vocally/doesnt understand-I don't either, hes not alone10.27
most people have no idea he's completely blind, in fact neither does he71.87
constantly bumps into things, sometimes yelps in pain20.53
constantly bumps into things and gets very disoriented and more so if her schedule changes or someone visits41.07
Hes eyes are very ulcerated, seems to cope until l put in his drops he then bumps into things and listedns for my voice as he is nearly blind and drops form a layer over top, he tries hes best none the less10.27
depression20.53
Tiger%27s not even blind%2110.27
diagnosed 1%2F22%2F09- is still treat motivated-performs tricks with voice instead of hand signals%2C 10.27


My dog copes with blindness and gets on with life - it took this long to get to this stage
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
I didn't even realise there was blindness95.77
1 day31.92
a few days1610.26
1 week85.13
a few weeks159.62
1 month74.49
a few months2415.38
6 months148.97
about a year74.49
two years10.64
still trying to cope1710.90
Realized blindness, adjusted from the start63.85
BLINDNESS WAS GRADUAL159.62
He was blind whenI met him, He adjusted on his own31.92
Born with limited vision, doesn't know anything different.31.92
She is deaf also so we cannot give her voice commands, She gets along by scent only.63.85
only saw the world for 6 weeks. still adjusting10.64
Went blind just 2 days ago10.64


Age at onset of Cataracts
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
6 months910.98
1 year78.54
2 years33.66
3 years33.66
4 years22.44
5 years89.76
8 years1821.95
10 years1012.20
older than 10 years1012.20
13 years33.66
15 years11.22
6 years22.44
Unknown11.22
1411.22
11 months22.44
born11.22
7 years11.22


Age at onset of Glaucoma
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
8 months1011.24
1 year66.74
2 years33.37
5 years1112.36
6 years66.74
8 years1213.48
10 years55.62
older than 10 years1011.24
7 years44.49
10 months22.25
911.12
9 years66.74
4 years22.25
14 years33.37
13 YEARS44.49
2911.12
1811.12
4011.12
3 years11.12


Would you knowingly get another dog with eye problems?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes!!10043.48
Perhaps3113.48
Don't know135.65
Probably not2510.87
No!!!3113.48
Why not?41.74
Absolutly!41.74
Already have!41.74
eh10.43
Moo!10.43
i don't know or perhaps.31.30
I just found out about this one, so I don't know yet52.17
adopted him knowing he was blind20.87
Yes, if otherwise well adjusted52.17
Eye problems cant be predicted, it dosent happen to all German Shephard x Rotty so thats a hard question to answer. I certainly wouldnt wish it upon anyone nor hope to deal with this all over10.43


My dog has SARDS and -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
He is an unaltered boy73.18
He is a neutered boy8337.73
She is an unaltered girl73.18
She is a neutered girl12355.91


My dog has lens luxation and his bread is
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Jack Russell Terrier3323.08
Terrier mix74.90
American Cocker42.80
shihtsu/poodle117.69
lhasa maltise (llamalese)139.09
Tibetian Spaniel Mix21.40
Maltise-Poodle2215.38
Australian Cattle Dog53.50
boston terrier42.80
Miniature Bull Terrier42.80
maltise149.79
toy poodle21.40
black lab/border collie10.70
sourdough10.70
tibetan terrier42.80
Chihuahua21.40
cocker terrier21.40
pitbull mix32.10
malise poodle32.10
miniture pincher21.40
miniture pincher10.70
teckel (dachshund)21.40
minature poodle10.70


I cope with my dogs blindness -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
I adjusted very quickly6122.43
I am still trying to cope259.19
I am mostly adjusted but still have *bad* days6122.43
I am having a very difficult time (still early days)259.19
I am having a very difficult time72.57
A few weeks of adjustment but am doing well now165.88
It is an ongoing learning process3211.76
Very well because he is more giftd than any sighted dog I have ever had93.31
It makes me depressed51.84
His limited vision doesn't bother me. 41.47
I am having such a difficult time because she is having such a difficult time. I feel so bad for her.93.31
I'm in a state of shock and feel hopelessness62.21
adopted him as a blind pup, we're having fun together, he's amazing51.84
I medicate myself by means of over the counter drugs and horse pills20.74
I take it one day at a time but it breaks my heart to see him this way and I don't know if I will ever adjust but I hope he does but it is still early.(he just turned 4, so young )41.47
I can live with his blindness. His other problems are worse. Incontenance%2C kidney disease10.37


(Cropping of ears and dockin tails), I think that -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Cropping of ears and dockin tails is acceptable4524.06
Cropping of ears and dockin tails is wrong4423.53
Dockin tails is acceptable179.09
No opinion, but personally wouldn't do it115.88
Docking of tails and cropping of ears is mutilation in the name of fashion or tradition6032.09
Sometimes justified, usually not94.81
Docking tails is fine%2C I wouldn%27t personally crop ears10.53


My dogs favorite toy is -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
a smell oriented one135.44
a sound oriented one (with a bell or squeeker)4317.99
a silent to, like a tug toy52.09
Humans125.02
a food oriented one135.44
stuffed toy177.11
rawhide chew strips156.28
a tennis ball or similar177.11
A pad of post it notes... and no, I'm not kidding ;o)10.42
He doesn't play with toys62.51
Our other dog41.67
My bedroom slippers20.84
me156.28
anything of mine that will get my attention!31.26
rope toy4418.41
a soda bottle31.26
baseball cap10.42
pig ear31.26
his feet10.42
He has limited vision and is deaf, loves his flashing glow ball10.42
small rocks10.42
Small hard rubber circle10.42
Anything he can tear up (kleenex, pillow stuffing)31.26
BooBoo Kitty ( TY stuffed cat)10.42
Her favorite toys were small stuffed animals with sqeekers. But she no longer plays with her toys since she had her eyes removed.10.42
Nothing..she just sleeps all day20.84
A 11" ball with bells in it to fetch10.42
Talking Treat Ball10.42
a fuzzy cat toy on elastic20.84
A milk carton20.84
my voice10.42
a basketball to roll around10.42
noise ball10.42
Tennis ball with a bell in it10.42
Stuffed dragon he won at a fair%2110.42


My dog got glaucoma, sight was saved, but it took this long before it was lost forever
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
1 month1431.11
2 months00.00
3 months12.22
4 months36.67
5 months24.44
6 months24.44
7 months00.00
8 months24.44
9 months12.22
10 months24.44
1824.44
Still Sighted715.56
4 years, but due to cataract (had surgery previously and stayed on eyedrops)24.44
blind in one eye, sited in other36.67
5 years (last 1 1/2 year taking medicine)12.22
1 week after cataract surgery24.44
chnell is my dog12.22


Where does your dog sleep?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
On your bed with you18347.66
On the floor in your bedroom4611.98
My dog is not welcome in the bedroom30.78
Locked in a different room in the house123.12
In a different room/Dogs choice92.34
Outside71.82
Any where he wants266.77
couch in family room51.30
on his bed in my bedroom266.77
kennel in my bedroom153.91
In my bed under the covers112.86
INTERNAL GARAGE30.78
either in house or in kennel, his choice10.26
Any where she wants61.56
In my bed, head on pillow, body under covers, just like me51.30
Kitchen51.30
In my bedroom, sometimes on the floor, sometimes on the bed her choice92.34
In her Donut bed in our room until going blind, now random places on the floor in our room10.26
It is more important for her to be closer to me; nearest floor space10.26
since blind, anywhere but in the bedroom..has doggy door and free roam of rest of house10.26
in his bed30.78
In a kennel With his dear Staffy friend Baby10.26
Why are pronouns MALE?20.52
Anywhere SHE wants20.52
On our bed%2C on the floor%2C sometimes in his kennel10.26


How many dogs are you owned by?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
One5823.48
Two9036.44
Three3714.98
Four2710.93
Five135.26
Six52.02
Seven20.81
Eight52.02
More than eight41.62
5 dogs and 1 cat10.40
more than twenty20.81
they aren't owned10.40
5 dogs 3 cats10.40
1 cat, 4 yabbies10.40


Is your dog a rescue dog?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes (I only have one dog)3919.50
One of my dogs is (I have more than one dog)2412.00
No6030.00
Yes, some of my dogs are rescue dogs94.50
Yes, all of my dogs are rescue dogs4924.50
Yes, 3 out of 4 are rescue dogs73.50
Yes, 2 of 4 are rescue dogs21.00
Yes,1 out of four10.50
1 was rescued off the freeway (more than one dog in house)10.50
6 out of 9 are plus 4 rescue kitties10.50
Yes 3 of 5 are rescue dogs and 7 cats all rescue cats10.50
Yes, 2 of 3 are rescue dogs31.50
3 of the 4 were, the other rescues people! (search and rescue dog)10.50
my dog has the ablility to expand in both space and time, although he has trouble seeing. that is okay though, because, well, you know, he can expand in space and time10.50
5 out of 5 are rescue dogs10.50


Does your dog have any other major disability in addition to blindness
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Sleep Apnea(due to being over weight from lack of exercise) and age125.53
Epilepsy62.76
weight156.91
Cushings Disease115.07
kidney problems31.38
congestive heart failure52.30
Diabetes115.07
luxating patella41.84
Arthritis73.23
deaf188.29
gluten, diary produce & red meat allergy20.92
no other problems3013.82
seizures83.69
skin allergy due to pollens, molds, dust etc.104.61
allergies & very litle immune system73.23
anxiety10.46
fatty tumors62.76
non-cancerous tumors20.92
hypo-thyroidism62.76
PANCREATITIS52.30
unexplained seasonal alopecia20.92
1 has 3 blown disks and lots of arthritis in spine10.46
Cushing's & Ectopic Hyperparathyroidism41.84
oscular skeletal disease10.46
weight, skin allergies, hypothyroidism, poor hips20.92
hip displaceia.62.76
Brain disese10.46
Cystic tumur on brain10.46
diabetic, autoimmune anemia, 10.46
she ids deaf, has arthritis, ear infections, fatty tumors and other tumors and last but not least a skin disease10.46
she is deaf, has arthritis, ear infections, fatty tumors and other tumors and last but not least a skin disease20.92
Blind, deaf, Cushings, Hypothyroidism, ear infections, skin infections, hip displasia, arthritis of the spine10.46
Cushing's, Arthritis, Hypothyroidism, Seizures31.38
he has three legs10.46
Deafness, hypothyroidism, food and airborn allergies10.46
hypo thyroidism and skin allergies10.46
Three legs & Addison's Disease10.46
hypothyroidism20.92
Deaf in one ear10.46
cortisol/progesterone problems10.46
SEVERAL OTHERS20.92
no83.69
struvite10.46
Incontenance20.92
Renal failure10.46


Do you treat your dog the same as before you did before blindess, like going for a ride in the car
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes8243.85
No63.21
Already Blind When Adopted73.74
Most of the time. He does get a little more spoiled these days3418.18
A few lifestlye changes for her but she is definitely more spoiled these days!4121.93
SPOIL HIM MORE. WITH WALKS AND CAR RIDES147.49
Came to me with limited vision21.07
Adopted blind, I treat her as any other 'normal' dog10.53


Did other people tell you it would be kinder to put your blind dog to sleep.
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes8742.65
No5024.51
yes, my mother offered to buy me a new puppy if I would put this one to sleep10.49
not in so many words, but you could tell they were thinking that2512.25
I don't listen to garbage20.98
They still do! Even after six years. 10.49
blind dogs deserve a 'seeing-eye human'146.86
they just didn't know the options20.98
No. They don't know he's mostly blind until I tell them.20.98
A few radicals10.49
I thought it might be better ,he's 14, but my vet talked me out of it. Glad he did.10.49
Yes, but i don't listen to bullshit73.43
Some yes, most no20.98
NO! I have received nothing but full support and reassurance!83.92
no they wouldn't dare, but they did think I was crazy for adopting him ("you already have 3 dogs, do you really NEED a blind puppy?" blah, blah, blah...he needed me!)10.49


The weight of my blind dog is -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
the same as it was before blindness arrived, and a good deal of time has elapsed4322.99
too heavy, and a diet is followed, with plenty of excercise too105.35
early days, but I can see an increase already94.81
heavy, but another condition is/may be causing it94.81
heavy, but age is a factor here too52.67
heavy, because of too much food and not enough excercise147.49
average 63.21
recent wt loss which I find vry worrisome, cold weathr,increased activity vs illness progressing10.53
back to pre-diabetic weight. Maintaining well52.67
had a weight loss due to Cushing/diabetes; he was too heavy; he has maintained at a good weight since stablized and since going blind31.60
He/She is ahppy and looks good to me94.81
heavy due to years of prednisone and other meds21.07
owner is lazy and doesn't exercise dog enough21.07
Too thin, I am worried about illness42.14
lost weight on diabetic diet10.53
holding steady136.95
ON WD WITH SARDS AND PANCREATITIS AND IS STILL GAINING WEIGHT10.53
Still early, but so far so good147.49
limited vision, he's lean and energetic21.07
Gained 6 or 7 POUNDS right before going blind (SARDS) after opthamologic check up we'll go on a STRICT diet73.74
weight always problem, a few extra pounds since SARDS21.07
went from 3 1/2 to 7.7 lbs since just before going blind with sards.21.07
Went from 58 to 95 in three moths before going nlind10.53
about 12 pounds21.07
gained 15+ lbs before going blind.. still has cyclical bouts of constant hunger (approx. 1-2 x's/mth)94.81
Weight has always been a problem, blindness hasn't made it any worse10.53
9 lb Chihuahua21.07
7 pound Maltese became 13 pounds a couple of months before going blind and being diagnosed with SARDS42.14
17 lb dog gained 7lbs before going blind, has gained more, on very restricted diet and is always hungry 21.07
heavier, less exercise and mobilty, same food10.53
Has gained 14lbs from the beginning of the SARDS experience (2.5 months)10.53


Are you having trouble finding information that would help you with your blind dog?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes4444.90
No1111.22
I am just winging it.33.06
Don't need any information to help me with my blind dog.00.00
No, and I wish there were more information available66.12
not once I found this site, the blinddogs site is great2626.53
The book "Living With Blind Dogs" is worth it's weight in gold!!!!22.04
I am having problems finding information. I feel like no one else is having the same problems that I am.33.06
I have had all kinds of luck searching the net!!! Got all I need from there... but "Living with Blind Dogs" is great too!33.06


How do your other dogs react to the blind dog?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
They don't seem to realize he is blind4336.44
They know he/she is blind, and sometimes take advantage of it1311.02
Just wants to fight with her/him now43.39
once they figured out he was 'different' things have been fine!1210.17
No difference what so ever119.32
Sighted dog reacts fine, blind dog barely tolerates other dog54.24
normally no difference, but once in a while gets cranky when stepped on43.39
Very cautious. Offensive21.69
They don't seem to know he has limited vision, deafness causes more problems.21.69
they give him more space and are more tolerant of little things. They let him think he is the alpha dog in the pack knowing he is really a whimp.32.54
Right now, she knows something is different but can't seem to figure out what! Hopefully that'll change in the future!10.85
the sighted Jack Russell taught the blind dogs how to play!!10.85
they usually ignore her10.85
I have never tried my dog with a blind dog.10.85
They seem to be alittle confused. My dog will growl at them if she knows they are around her. Then they usually just leave her alone.54.24
they know something's different, but only one acts differently - more aggressive sometimes towards her, taking advantage of her weakness21.69
my younger dog (of the 3 original) gets perplexed as to why the new pup runs into things sometimes (including him) and doesn't like being mouthed on so much, but they are all doing well together most of the time10.85
She loves to be around them and establishes rules of play10.85
\With care and respect21.69
They use to be big buddies and now they act as if they don't know one other and I have even had to break up a few fights. If they even get close to one another the one w/ sight will growl and the blind one runs.21.69
Is confused, doesn't understand what has changed.10.85
One doesn't notice and another (a pit bull) is more tolerant and kinder to the blind dog10.85


When others discover that your dog is blind, do they pity him?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes3035.29
No11.18
Sometimes78.24
Most of the time67.06
Almost always33.53
They have no reaction11.18
most are surprised at his skills and abilities1922.35
They are stand-offish33.53
ALL of my friends actually cried when they found out...33.53
I don't tell people. 11.18
Only when she runs into things33.53
They laugh, he's totally cross-eyed and adorable too!!11.18
Absolutely, but he doesn't want or need pity - they did that at the rescue I got him from and it gave him bad habits, he just want to do what everyone else does22.35
A first reaction, then delight at her remarkable adaptation. She teaches a great lesson.55.88


Number of eyes: My dog is blind and-
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
still has both eyes7233.80
has had one eye removed, no prosthesis198.92
has had one eye removed, has prosthesis104.69
has both eyes removed, no prosthesis219.86
has both eyes removed, has prosthesis104.69
In the near future, my dog will have to have one or both eyes removed104.69
One eye removed, other still sighted.115.16
has had one eye removed with prosthesis, and prosthetic implant in other20.94
has had one eye removed, and cataract surgery on remaining eye with limited vision31.41
was born without eyes41.88
had one eye removed 3 yrs ago, getting the second one removed next week20.94
Completely blind in one eye, about half way there in the other41.88
blind in one eye but still has vision in the other2411.27
Was born with one eye and is sighted in the other31.41
limited vision, has both eyes83.76
has both eyes but was born blind in one62.82
injury to one eye41.88


id there a connection between sards and urinary problems
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
my dog has sards with no urine/kidney problems4143.16
my dog has sards and urinary tract infections88.42
my dog has sards and decreased kidney function, short of or up to kidney failure1313.68
my blind dog without sards has urinary tract infections44.21
my blind dog without sards has kidney disease with or without "kidney failure"11.05
my blind dog has crystals in the urine or stones44.21
My blind miniature schnauzer has SARDS, diabetes and various metabolic functions not doing well.11.05
My sards dog has crystals in the urine and stones55.26
My SARDS dog has frequent unination problems off and on.1616.84
I have SARDS and it wont go away22.11


In your opinion, what are the three most important things a blind dog who is being adopted, the new family should know (multiple votes allowed)
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
An 'eye' for danger66.06
The willingness to go to formal training22.02
The use of smells33.03
What are suitable toys11.01
To treat them as much as possible as a sighted dog1717.17
make them feel secure and wanted before anything else2222.22
do not move furnishings66.06
Noisy tags on other dogs55.05
All of the Above1616.16
place runners in high risk spots for head bumps22.02
read the book "Living With Blind Dogs"55.05
use lots of verbal commands, talk alot to them77.07
don't move furniture, alot of patience, and love55.05
watch for health problems other than sight22.02


My dog has had one eye/both eyes removed - noticable problems for a short time afterwards was (multiple choices allowed)-
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
None - rapid healing and no pain2650.00
Bleeding from the sewn up eyes47.69
Infection (with pus) from the eyes611.54
General body infection11.92
Bleeding from the nose23.85
Some pain35.77
reaction from the stitches11.92
Swelling and bruising35.77
It has been 3 weeks since my dog had both her eyes removed. She was blind before and could get around great. Since the eyes were removed, she can not find her way around at all now.23.85
Swelling from surgery47.69


My dog has SARDS, and went blind in the month of-
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
January2717.31
Febuary95.77
March2314.74
April95.77
May1710.90
June117.05
July95.77
August106.41
September138.33
October42.56
November106.41
December148.97


My dog has SARDS and exhibited these symptoms-
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Extreme thirst before blindness3215.46
Extreme thirst after blindness115.31
Extreme appetite before blindness178.21
Extreme appetite after blindness94.35
Kidney problems before blindness10.48
Kidney problems after blindness52.42
SKIN PROBLEM ON STOMACHE THAT ITCHED, THEN SEVERELY INCREASED APPETITE, THIRST AND WEIGHT GAIN. D136.28
extreme weight gain and excessive panting188.70
extreme thirst, extreme apetite, extreme weight gain, congested breathing, panting, lethargy, excessive licking of front paws4019.32
Extreme thirst and appetite before blindness - is tapering off some now (also thyroid meds help).62.90
all the above except kidney problems52.42
Had Just Started Lysodren20.97
extreme appetite and weight gain, insomnia, two small red spots on the abdomon that did not itch or hurt, got grumpy and growly10.48
had started Lysodren 4 months before, had taken Rimadyl for a month before31.45
extreme thirst, extreme apetite, extreme weight gain, congested breathing, panting, lethargy, thyroid problem (treated with meds), high blood pressure (treated with meds), tiny growths/bumps on forepaws.31.45
Panting more immediate before and after blindness41.93
increased thirst, extreme appetite, itchy skin41.93
noticed night blindness41.93
no other symptoms except blindness104.83
Skin infection, taking steroids for infection10.48
Extreme thirst and appetite before blindness, lessened thirst, wetting in the house and elevated appetite, but not as bad as a month ago.31.45
Diaherra then pneumonia after blindness10.48
extreme appetite and weight gain, sagging belly, not wanting to walk, increased thirst, panting, lethargy, sleeplessness83.86
extreme appetite%2C weight gain%2C increased thirst for about 2-3 months before becoming blind31.45
thirst %26 urination in the house before becoming blind%3B increased appetite and increased thirst %28but not as bad%29 after becoming blind20.97
extreme thirst%2C increased appetite%2C weight gain and congested breathing10.48


My dog has laser/cryo surgery, and had
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
1 laser treatment, sight still lost637.50
2 laser treatments, sight still lost00.00
1 cryo treatment, sight still lost00.00
2 cryo treatments, sight still lost00.00
1 laser treatment, sight retained00.00
2 laser treatments, sight retained00.00
1 cryo treatment, sight retained212.50
2 cryo treatments, sight retained00.00
1 laser treatment, to save eye, eye saved00.00
2 laser treatments, to save eye, eye saved16.25
1 cryo treatment, to save eye, eye saved00.00
2 cryo treatments, to save eye, eye saved16.25
1 laser treatment to save eye, eye still lost16.25
2 laser treatments to save eye, eye still lost00.00
1 cryo treatment to save eye, eye still lost00.00
2 cryo treatments to save eye, eye still lost00.00
1 cryo treatment, sight retained but later lost to diabetic cataract16.25
3 laser treatments, to save eye, partial sight retained (only partial sight due to complications) - eye saved16.25
1 laser surgery, sight lost in bad eye; good eye stable 15 months and counting!16.25
2 Cryo treatment, 1 laser treatment, sight still lost212.50


SARDS DOGS THAT IMPROVED AFTER THE ONSET OF BLINDNESS
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
WAS THE APPETITE STILL INCREASED1822.78
DID THE DOG BECOME EVEN MORE DISORIENTED45.06
WERE THERE BREATHING PROBLEMS45.06
DID THE SENSE OF AMELL SEEM TO DECREASE ALSO22.53
DID YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH PIDDLING IN THE HOUSE45.06
MY DOG HAS ALL OF THESE PROBLEMS BUT IT'S ONLY BEE 1 MONTH THAT HE IS TOTALLY BLIND1417.72
all of the above but in slightly different order, now most improved but it has been almost a year810.13
all of the above and never an improvement810.13
Has become Anorexic & Depressed, it has only been 2 weeks since he went blind33.80
Excessive drinking, disorientation, piddling in the house, but it has only been a few weeks.810.13
Is there help for sard56.33
no more extreme thirst or hunger; getting back in shape and enjoying life more!11.27


HOW MANY OF THE SARDS DOGS ALSO HAVE PANCREATITIS
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
NO2644.83
YES1322.41
DON'T KNOW1932.76


DID ANY SARDS DOGS HAVE A LIME DISEASE SHOT?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
NO8168.64
YES3126.27
mybe10.85
jkk10.85
yes, but not for several years43.39


DID ANYONE WITH A SARDS DOG USE WEED PREVENTATIVE OR PESTISIDES ON YOUR LAWNS
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES5156.04
NO2729.67
blind 5/2000, house treated for termites 1/2000 but symptoms noted in 12/00 that retrospect. were sards11.10
Who knows what was used on grass where dog is walked88.79
neighbor who sprays malethion into our yard on a weekly basis33.30
have in past%2C neighbor has his professionally done 4 times a year11.10


DID ANY SARDS DOGS HAVE AN ITCHY RASH ON THEIR STOMACHE ABOUT 6 MONTHS BEFORE THEY WERE TOTALLY BLIND?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES 1531.91
NO3268.09


SARDS DOG OWNER. DID YOU USE CHEMICAL ICE MELT IN YOUR DRVEWAY OR WALKWAYS?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES815.09
NO4279.25
last exp. 4/98, blind 5/200011.89
Yes, but dog never went on that sidewalk or driveway11.89
Occassionally%2C but winter of 2008%2F2009 not any exposurre11.89


DID YOU FEED YOUR DOG TABLEFOOD?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES 5657.73
NO1111.34
very occasionally3030.93


DO YOU FEEL THE ONLY WAY TO FING THE ANSWER TO THIS BIZZARE SARDS BLINDNESS IS THOUGH ANSWERS TO SURVEYS?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES2452.17
NO715.22
Nope, not enough numbers48.70
No, but pooling our experiences can't hurt1123.91


Did you ever use any cortizone products on your dogs skin for itching?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes3135.23
no2528.41
yes, very little and long ago66.82
yes, and it did absolutely no good!33.41
Natural Diet (Holistic Feed) worked better than any cortizone11.14
my own skin for a flea bite11.14
yes, successfully for limited problem33.41
cortizone shots66.82
prednisone, for back problems77.95
FOR RASH ON STOMACHE 1 TIME44.55
Prednisone for ITP years ago and again in recent years for back problem11.14


Does your dog appear to refuse to accept the fact that s-he is blind? i.e. instead of at least attempting to move with caution, instead just constantly bolting into things.
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes1319.12
No1522.06
Yes, which is why I have soft pillows or the like propped throughout the house to buffer the "hard spots"34.41
Only when S-He knows they are about to be allowed outside or taken on a walke34.41
Only at night when s-he appears to be most disoriented34.41
Only during hte day when s-he appears to most disoriented00.00
when justwaking up, seems most disoriented, day or night, yes, .57.35
Is sometimes cautious other times not.1826.47
She doesn't bolt into things, she just walks into everything. But I don't think she can help it.45.88
She is definitely more cautious and will actually feel with her feet in unfamiliar territory34.41
he's very bold and confident, maneuvers around amazingly well, sometimes runs into things but he's still a very high energy puppy too in addition to being blind11.47


DOES YOUR SARD DOG HAVE HARD LITTLE BUMPS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A PEA AND FLESH COLORED A FEW PLACES ON THEIR BODY?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES12080.54
NO138.72
No, but mine does have fatty tumors (three that I can easily identify)85.37
has little bumps and fatty tumors74.70
MY UNAFFECTED DOG DOES10.67


Did your dog have pancreatitis, then develope cushings, then become blind through SARDS
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes1328.26
no1941.30
No Pancreatitis, but yes- Cushings then SARDS48.70
no cushings, but yes-pancreatitis then SARDS24.35
pancreatitis & cushings24.35
sards possible cushings but needs further tests. now has terrible diaorriha and am afraid my dog has pancreatitis12.17
suck my willy24.35
suck my willy24.35
suck my willy12.17


My dog had a glaucoma valve/shunt implanted in eye and vision was
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
saved for less than 1 year125.00
lost completely after surgery250.00
saved for over 1 year00.00
saved for over 2 years125.00


DO YOU FEEL THAT VETS SHOULD DO MORE SURVEYS AND RESEARCH IN THIS AREA AND GET TOTALLY FRUSTRATED AT THE LACK OF KNOWLEDGE IN THIS AREA?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES6496.97
NO23.03


DID YOUR DOCTOR DO A SURVEY WHEN YOUR DOG WAS DIAGONOSED WITH SARDS?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES 516.67
NO2480.00
SECOND DOG SEEN IN 31 YEARS PRACTICE13.33


DO YOU FEEL THAT THE ONLY WAY TO GET INFORMATION IS IN A SITE LIKE THIS ABOUT SARDS DOGS AND HOPE THAT VETS ARE READING THIS SURVEY?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES2295.65
NO14.35


DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU KNOW MORE ABOUT SARDS THAN YOUR VET DOES?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
YES 4590.00
NO36.00
The first two vets, yes. Now I have a canine optomologist, that knows more then me finally24.00


Did you contact the breeder of yor dog to tell them of the problem?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes1343.33
no826.67
not yet26.67
why would I?00.00
yes, and the breeders Vet too.13.33
Yes, the breeder and I had both known it was a possibility when I got her13.33
I am the breeder - my SARDS dog is the puppy I kept. AKC CH and everything - I'm heartbroken.13.33
no, I do not know the breeder26.67
no,he was stray dog13.33
Adopted13.33


When no one seems to know for sure why your dog is loosing or has lost sight.
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
1. Keep testing and switching Vets till I got an answer.312.50
Eventually stopped when the price was too high and the testing was torturing the pup.00.00
3. After ruling out serious problems just got one with dealing with adjustment.833.33
sick of repeated testing and no answers from traditional vets, now trying vitamin program and acupuncture through holistic vet14.17
Read up on posibilities, sounded like SARDS, went to an eye specialist for dogs, tested and confirmed first visit1250.00


De-barking is -
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Cruel and unnesesary3641.86
Only OK as a last resort if a dog is going to be PTS2933.72
OK if the dog cannot be trained to stop1315.12
OK, it causes no pain, I see no problem89.30


Was your dog treated with Antibiotics within a month of being diagnosed with SARDS?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes2964.44
no1533.33
topical; for eye sx12.22


Did your dog receive a Proheart injection within a month of going blind?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes4850.00
No3738.54
would NOT give my dogs proheart, use heartgard!77.29
Intercepter!33.12
Revolution11.04


How prevalent is SARDS in golden retrivers?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
What other health concerns after SARDS diagnosis?3090.91
Irdicoyclitis26.06
encyphalitis13.03


Are you giving your SARDs dog PS to help relieve the symptoms, and if so what results or changes have you seen?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
No results or changes.642.86
After a few weeks on 50 mg a day, there was no noticible difference, but after another week on 100 mg a day, the excessive hunger as well as confusion and insomnia all seemed to improve greatly.17.14
gradual improvement in insomnia and behaviour, orientation slowly improved214.29
improvement in thirst, aggression, fear, salivation17.14
No428.57


Did you have an intrascleral prosthesis put in?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes758.33
no541.67


did you see a vet about it
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
no 00.00
yes12100.00


Have you tried any alternative therapies for dogs losing sight to glaucoma and was it effective?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes, accupuncture and it was effective320.00
Yes, accupuncture and it was NOT effective00.00
Yes, herbal supplements and they were effective213.33
Yes, herbal supplements and they were NOT effective16.67
Yes, reflexiology and it was effective213.33
Yes, reflexiology and it was NOT effective00.00
Yes, accupressure and it was effective16.67
Yes, reflexiology and it was NOT effective00.00
No, I have not tried any alternative therapy640.00


how old was your dog when sards was diagnosed
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
less than 1yr36.82
1 yr00.00
2 yrs00.00
3 yrs 00.00
4 yrs511.36
5 yrs613.64
6 yrs49.09
7 yrs24.55
8 yrs920.45
9 yrs 715.91
10 yrs or older613.64
not known00.00
12 years or older12.27
11 yrs12.27


what other illnesses does your sards dog have (may vote for more than one)
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
allergies1935.85
colitis, bowel disease23.77
diabetes00.00
cushings11.89
renal failure, low renal function35.66
urine stones, crystals35.66
hepatitis, liver enzymes up35.66
pancreatitis23.77
thyroid low611.32
lipids bad, triglycerides too high47.55
seizures35.66
blood disorders11.89
High Blood Pressure11.89
stomach23.77
none35.66


Have you had any success treating SARDS with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, vitamins or herbs?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes936.00
No1352.00
mabe312.00


Was your dog given Rimadyl in the previous month of SARDS diagnosis?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes2160.00
No1028.57
Not sure25.71
metacam12.86
A shyster vet tried to give me Rimadyl, I gave her half a tab and decided to flush the rest down the toilet.12.86


Does Glaucoma ususally follow retina detachment?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes480.00
No120.00
Sometimes00.00


favourite toys for their dog
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
PLASTIC626.09
SOFT 521.74
TENNIS BALL521.74
OTHER313.04
Tuggie toys28.70
Nylabones14.35
heaping piles of poo poo14.35


Did your dog have a moderate head trauma in the months preceeding the onset of SARDS?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes1544.12
no1132.35
it's a possibility - perhaps they hit their head that I wasn't aware of823.53


Would you buy a product designed to help your blind dog navigate as well as protect their head from injury?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes3261.54
No, my dog is doing just fine.47.69
Yes I would if it was under $601630.77


Is SARDS connected with signs of hypercorticolism?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes2187.50
No312.50


Did your blind dog get steroids for allergies
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes1028.57
No514.29
yes, but not for allergies38.57
no, he got steriods for laughter38.57
yes, but he died from the steroids12.86
sometimes, but usually he loves it when i poke his empty eye sockets12.86
yeah, but i really wish he would just dissipate into nothingness25.71
yeah, i give her some when we listen to led zeppelin12.86
i am constantly feeding my dog steroids (he won the dog competition by cheating!)12.86
I think we all need to remember how and why this happens to our loved ones. It isn't like we wanted this to happen, and we thought it would always be comfortable, but I've always remembered those times we had together. Really, upon retrospect, there wasn't anything else we could do. I freebased all of the drugs I could freebase and I still ended up making love to the idea in my head, about how I regurtitate black life and all of the cold water soaking in my eyes. 411.43
baby it doesn't matter where the steroids came from. it is all in the past now we just have to learn to love again38.57
No, she was never given steroids at any time.12.86


If your dog has been diagnosed with sards, had he/she been taking glucosamine?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes1040.00
No1560.00


If your dog has been diagnosed with sards, had he/she been taking Omega 3 capsules?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes425.00
No1275.00


If your dog has been diagnosed with sards, had he/she been diagnosed with elevated liver enzymes?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes2071.43
No828.57


Is acupuncture legitimate or just a scam?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Legitimate 4453.01
Scam3946.99


does your dog chase its tail
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
yes1473.68
no526.32


Where would you prefer your dog to stay while you are away?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Kennels39.38
Home boarding928.12
with family1650.00
other412.50


Did your SARDS dog receive vaccinations every year?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes, every year2278.57
Every three years27.14
No414.29


Does your blind dog have brain tumor detected ?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes he has853.33
Yes but he was cured00.00
No320.00
I don't know320.00
Will find out today - He's having a CT Scan16.67


Did your blind dog get a head scan ?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes535.71
No964.29
No but he had x-ray, irm or others00.00


Is your dog suffering from cardiopathy (heart failure) ?
Click here to add to this survey
Choice
Votes
%
Yes642.86
No535.71
cardiomyopathy17.14
could be214.29


Newly added surveys will be included after vetting

Click here to return back to the surveys