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Over the last couple of weeks Beni's eyesight has seemed to become more and more compromised. It was confirmed with his visit on Thursday that the immature cataract that was first diagnosed along with the glaucoma has matured. Dr. Ledbetter could not see the lens though he did say that dogs can see better out through a cataract than the doctors can see in. He said Beni is most likely seeing large objects and bright lights.

Because of the glaucoma Beni has never been a candidate for cataract removal surgery. He said there are times when a cataract may mature and then be reabsorbed resulting in improved vision but it's not always the case. It doesn't seem like there is much else to do for Beni from talking to the doctor except tp keep the glaucoma under control. If not for the cataract the sight would be pretty much normal. At least it has been a gradual process... over three and a half years. I have been working with Beni and using voice commands for different situations like getting off of the deck and out into the yard so hopefully these things will help. As for right now Beni still has some sight but it's severely restricted but at least it's something.
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If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.

Poor Beni. . . You're so good with him, Bob. I know he'll adjust to these changes (just as we do to getting older--even when it's a pain!).

I was so sorry to read this post, Bob. I know you are hurting. However, from things I've heard, dogs really do adjust well to loss of sight. Does Beni seem troubled by this change,or does he seem to be taking it OK? I don't want to say that it may actually be harder on you than on Beni, but...............?

Sending caring thoughts to your whole family!
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Anne, Bill, and Murphy

For right now Beni seems to be taking in stride. He still has some vision but it's severely restricted... he does better with more upclose things. I think or at least I hope that the gradual course this has taken has helped him out. While the news on Thursday was expected it's still the finality of the situation. It's just the bad luck that he had a cataract develop in that eye.
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If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.

We are so sorry to hear about Beni's condition, but we are so THANKFUL that he has such a wonderful family that will be there for him..... As always, our best wishes and positive thoughts are being sent your way.

Patty, Beni, and Kari

I am not good with words, so I ditto the previous message. Beni is so lucky to have a great family who cares so much. Poor guy, it is just not fair he has the cataract. Like he didn't have enough to deal with

I saw on the news the other day, a husky who went blind, and he used to run in dog sled races. He loved it so much the family continued to let him run. It's amazing what they can do! I think one of my biggest saddnesses is that they can't see their prey when chasing it through the yard (bunnies, birds, and squirrels!)

Tough news to read this morning. I'm so sorry. At least the catarac doesn't cause him pain. Oh it's so tough when these guys get older.
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Chelle and the rest of the crew including, but not limited to Kita and Taiko (the shiba inu wrestle maniacs), Adi (reserved and dignified tabby cat), and all 28 reptiles www.freewebs.com/performanceshibas

Bob, how old is Beni?
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Anne, Bill, and Murphy

Anne... Beni just turned 12 years old. His birthday post is down below...lol!
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If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.

Oh my, that information just got "misfiled" somewhere! I remember reading (and replying) about his birthday!

Mom, I told you he is 12, but you wouldn't believe me!
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Anne, Bill, and Murphy