Blind Dog Lesson #78: Sensory Data Quality

Blind Dog Lesson #78

Since blind dogs don't have any visual input, other sensory input becomes very important. They need to have other senses engaged so that they can have full lives. When left alone in their crate, play a CD or podcast or the radio so they have something to listen to. Give them a blanket of a texture they enjoy. Encourage them to smell all the things when on walks.

Also, you want to make sure that the quality of these sensory inputs are positive. If the sounds are jarring or the touch harsh, they will be getting a larger proportion of sensory data that is scary and can have a negative impact on their adjustment.

I learned this lesson tonight. Apparently, it is not acceptable to sing P.O.D. to the dog.