Here are two of our Dachshunds, Callie who is blind and Bailey who has orthopedic and neurological issues, hanging out by the dinner table. I thought this was an interesting photo because of the way the flash reflected straight back from Callie's retinas. Hmm. A bit early for Halloween, perhaps.
Callie's blind from progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), in which retinal function diminishes because of a loss of blood to nourish the retinas. To compensate, the pupils completely dilate to try and get as much light in as possible, although towards the end of PRA (as in Callie's case) it doesn't matter because there's no vision left.
The two Dachshunds have made themselves at home on the towel we keep on the floor by the water bowl -- the black object on the right -- which is actually a salt block holder for horses. (I think I've mentioned this before on the blog.) It's heavy, has a wide base, and is hard for big blind dogs to knock over. However, it doesn't keep them from walking into it, or from the 'drink-and-run' types like Birdie who manage to leave more water on the floor than they get down their throats. Hence the ever-present towel.
(Click on photo for larger image.)
Callie and Bailey aren't in sleeping poses?!? Good to see them bright and glowing eyed.
Callie will certainly get doggie treats for Halloween if she keeps her up her glowing stare.
Posted by: Leilani | October 30, 2006 at 10:28 AM