Preliminary evaluation of effect of two visual aid devices on navigation in blind dogs.

Objectives: To evaluate two visual aid devices in blind dogs.
Materials and Methods: Transit time and number of collisions through a maze were recorded for 12 chronically and irreversibly blind dogs. Each dog repeated the maze while fitted with a BlindSight® echolocation device, or Muffin's Halo® physical barrier. They then repeated another maze test after a 30-day device acclimation period at home.
Results: All dogs had fewer collisions when wearing the halo device versus their baseline with no device. Dogs ≤11.8 kg had fewer collisions when acclimated to the halo versus their baseline with no device or when acclimated to the BlindSight®. For dogs >11.8 kg, maze completion time was faster when acclimated to the BlindSight® versus their baseline with no device or when acclimated to a halo. Owner surveys indicated no noticeable improvement in quality of life or dog navigation at home with either device.
Clinical Significance: This study demonstrates the utility of commercially available visual aid devices in aiding blind dogs' navigation and may help veterinarians make recommendations to owners of blind dogs regarding the purchase of these devices.
(© 2020 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)