Toby |
I want to relate a life enriching experience that is too important not to share. Early last year, after having lost our dear MiniSchnauzer Tucker to cancer, I checked the listings of the MiniSchnauzer Rescue Service of New England mainly for concern for our other Schnauzer Rosie, who had always enjoyed the company of another dog. That is where I saw the listing for Toby, who was described as having diabetes and was being reviewed for possible cataract surgery. As it turned out, Toby was unable to have the surgery and was thus "totally blind". Although I felt my heart go out to the poor guy, I was reluctant to pursue this dog for all of the obvious reasons most people have who have not had experience with a blind pet or person. After talking with Janet and doing some research, we made the commitment to adopt Toby. Although there was some trepidation, I felt that we would be able to provide a loving home by taking the few extra steps that would facilitate a blind dog coming into a new household. Toby had been a very loved pet, and being very intelligent was able to adapt to his new environment quickly. He and Rosie took very well to one another and Toby soon learned his way around the house and even through the doggie door to the backyard with Rosie's assistance. He and Rosie also shared responsibility in protecting the house by alerting us with their barking when someone came to the door. A strong bond was soon established between the two of them. The extra efforts I learned for caring for a blind dog turned out to be mostly simple logical precautions such as avoiding changing furniture placement, providing a noise (such as from a radio) or scent that will allow the dog to orient himself. The extra efforts that were made seemed minimal and actually promoted the bond between us as well. His other senses are more acute which makes up for his lack of sight. He brings a different perspective to our outdoor walks in the way he is able to discover things through smell and hearing. The happiness he expresses in his activities seems more amplified than in "normal" dogs. Toby has added so much joy and love to our family that we appreciate our good fortune for having him in our lives. He never ceases to amaze us as well as anyone who comes over who cannot believe he's blind. Though I suspected there would be a lot of love when we made the commitment to adopt him, which certainly is the case, I did not expect to learn so much from a dog. I cannot imagine not having Toby in our lives, which he continues to enrich every day! For anyone who is thinking about providing a good, loving home to a pet in need and is wondering about diabetes and/or blindness, I can attest that their lives will be enhanced in ways that will always be remembered with the greatest fondness and love. Robin Somes & Toby |
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