I have not posted about this earlier, mostly because we didn't have a diagnosis. Our dear, wonderful Paisley has Degenerative Retinal Atrophy, an irreversible condition in which the light receiptors in the retina (the rods) deteoriate and lose function. From what I understand, this is very rare in Dobermans; it's mostly found in sporting breeds.
I've already joined a blind dog group in yahoo and I've been talking with a rescue person who is blind himself (who gave me many wonderful pointers to help Paisley acclaimate), but I need some training advice.
Pailsey loves the outdoors, and we walk often. However, she is not a good heeler and ]she pulls like a mule. How can I teach her a reliable heel? Her vision is now 75 percent gone!
We are very lucky in that Pailsey is a very mellow and laid back Dober, and emotionally , she seems to be taking things in stride. Taking away her walks on nice late fall days seems so unfair! Thanks for any advice you can give, Les, Frankay and Paisley
