How to Know If You Are Ready To Adopt A Blind Puppy

You have fallen in love with a blind puppy. You wonder if he can ever live a happy life. Can YOU give him a happy life? Are you committed enough, do you have what it takes? Is it worth it?
From my own personal experience I can tell you, it is worth it; but only you can decide if adopting a blind puppy is right for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet
• Time to research

1. Ask yourself the question, "Why do I want to adopt a blind puppy?"
   If your answer is: I want to give him a good life. You are heading in the right direction.

2. Don't confuse Pity with Compassion.
   Pity will raise a fearful, insecure dog. Pity will keep you from letting your dog learn to be a dog and overcome his obstacles.
   Compassion will raise a confident, secure dog. Compassion will enable you to expect the best from your pet and will encourage you to help him learn to overcome his obstacles.

3. Are you financially able to provide veterinary care for you puppy?
   Puppies (sighted or blind) bring financial responsibilities, specially the first year.
   There are many healthy blind dogs out there. Just because they were born blind does not mean they will require more veterinary care; however, make sure the puppy you wish to adopt is in good health if you can't commit to expensive vet visits.

4. Search the Internet for information and success stories.
   As with any decision, inform yourself. Read success stories of blind dogs, specially those who were born blind. You will learn blind dogs can have happy lives and add to the lives of those who love them.

5. Be Ready To Commit.
   All puppies require extra work. A blind puppy will not require more work than a sighted puppy, but commitment is important. Are you ready to commit yourself to training your puppy, use verbal praise (more than usual) and have confidence in his ability to live a good life?

Tips & Warnings

• You should have experience with dog ownership before adopting a blind puppy.
• Owning a blind puppy could be one of your most fulfilling experiences.

[tkdbbelt87]

on 5/7/2009 Definitely a great article - I really wish there were more people out there willing to take in an animal that has disabilities. They'd be willing to help their blind friend but not a blind puppy..it's a shame. I hope people read this and change their minds! 5*!!!

[labellefleur100]

on 3/27/2009 Fantastic advice! 5*

[elyria]

on 3/26/2009 Very loving article, so much good advice! 5* and recommended

[530shasta]

on 3/26/2009 This little guy is so cute! What a great thing to do! 5*

[diggitydogg]

on 3/26/2009 This is such a helpful article. Each piece of advice you give is spot on. I agree in that any puppy requires extra work and a blind puppy won't require more, just slightly different training. And training requires commitment with any dog. I hope anyone who is ever considering adopting a blind dog will read this article. And I agree with billips, the puppy is lucky to have found you!