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Comment by Anna Morelli on June 30, 2013 at 11:22pm

I could write a book on what various specialists told me....don't give up on her ability to perceive.  You are in the best position to observe her.  Stimulation through touch and smell are also very important. The pup will ultimately be good for her too.

Comment by Netta and Becky Lacy on June 30, 2013 at 9:18pm

We were pretty surprised at the things she was able to learn. We got out Rusty's old potty training bell, not expecting much, but she learned to use it in no time. She had no idea WHY we came and opened the door when he bumped it with his nose, she just saw that that was how it worked, and within just a couple of days she was ringing it herself.

Anna, the eye specialist told us her optic nerves are shot, but we'll try the LED and see if it's bright enough to make an impression. Thanks for the suggestion.

Comment by Anna Morelli on June 30, 2013 at 7:43pm

She must be able to smell and sense him... just not sure what to do with him and it's good that she sets her limits as this teaches the pup to respect her.  Good for you adopting a dog you knew was deaf and learning to work with her disabilities.  Does she respond to light?  A really bright daylight color LED flash light may be something she can respond to.  You could try shining it on the floor and giving her a treat a few times, to see if she can make the association.  If she does, it can be worked with in other ways.

Comment by Jane Christensen on June 30, 2013 at 8:28am

Oh, poor girl...I bet Angus will worm his way into her heart:)  Eventually!

Comment by Netta and Becky Lacy on June 30, 2013 at 6:19am

She was born deaf. She was being trained to be a show dog until her breeder realized she wasn't actually following commands, just watching and doing whatever her sister did. S we knew she was deaf when we adopted her. She lost her sight last summer when she developed glaucoma after cataract surgery; we fought it tooth and nail, but we lost. She's adapted pretty well, and we've figured out ways to help her get around. And yes, Angus will touch her now, but unfortunately, she's grumpy about it and tells him to back off when he does. She's like, "Get outta here kid; ya bodda me." :-)

Comment by Jane Christensen on June 29, 2013 at 11:43pm

WOW....has Katie always been this way? You really take wonderful care of animals who really need great amounts of care...thank-you! So has Angus figured that he has to touch her?