adopted a blind spaniel

Question
Hi, I just adopted a 4-5 year old cocker spaniel who has glaucoma in both eyes and cannot see. He's a sweet dog and he's very well-behaved .. most of the time. The problem we have is with his peeing. He doesn't just squirt a little when he's excited or nervous, he will squat and pee as if he hasn't gone all day.
I was able to get in touch with the people that brought him into the animal control and learned how he was found - outside an apartment complex, wandering around with no collar/tags. He was left in the rain overnight until someone brought him inside. He was covered in ticks, fleas and was in terrible shape.
He's been through a lot so I can understand why he's easily unnerved, but how do I get him to stop peeing all over the floor when I give him a simple command?


Answer
You don't say how long you've had him and I'm assuming it's pretty recent so I'll start by saying any rescue dog needs weeks to adjust.

I'd begin taking him out every 2 hours or so - giving your chosen command in a quiet voice then praise & reward.  Keeping his bladder as empty as possible will help.  Having him on leash will soothe him even in the yard.

He's had to learn to find his way around..adapt to you..and he's understandably a bit anxious.  This will settle down but it'll take a little time.

I'd also make an appt. with a vet opthalmologist because glaucoma needs meds.

Blind dogs can get along very nicely but he needs to get his head around where things are - how you get outside, etc.  So, if possible,
keep things peaceful and quiet - take him out on leash a lot to the backyard - lots of praise when he goes.  And keep your voice calm when directing him.

Lisa, if I can answer any more questions, please do write.  Poor little guy..but he sure lucked out with you :)

Also, if he was this neglected - a visit to the vet is in order and if the peeing is excessive, I'd advise a urinalysis.  An infection will make it impossible for him to control things.  You don't even have to take him in - just collect a urine same in a sterile container and drop it off at the vets immediately (or refrigerate until you can get it there).
Delores