Help me help my almost blind, diabetic dog enjoy life (shih tzu, vet)

[lashly]

My little guy, "Z" will be 13 in May. Shih Tzu. He's blind in one eye and nearly blind in the other. Also recently diagnosed as diabetic, although I guess that's been going on for sometime; I just didn't know the signs.

It's TOUGH not being able to give my dog(s) treats during the day. Z is so use to that but since only diagnosed with diabetes, the vet needs to take some tests to see if Z is stabilized on the insulin and so - NO treats! It's torture for me to eat in front of him. And, I can't sleep.

Oh, 2 units of insulin - 2x's a day - 12 hours apart!! Wow.....what a schedule!

The big issue is his sight. He has very little, but not sure how that works. Sometimes I can tell he sees me and other times - not. I talk to him a lot and spend time with him, but still.......he sleeps more. It could be his age that he sleeps more, but...what can a almost blind do with his time?

My vet said to just let Z be Z.....and me not to be so gloomy about it, but how??? My best friend and all.

And, I have many levels in this house, which is a real bummer, but Z gets around - but I am afraid that he will fall......................the other dog wears a bell; i have runners on the first floor and have scented some areas - like the steps. We walk twice a day right after food and insulin. He sometimes is good walking and sometimes not. What else can I do to keep him perky????? Oh, duh - he likes to stick his head out the car window, but now I'm told (a little late) that that's not good on the eyes.. I feel guilty

Any advice about how I can make my dog happier?? Please reply with this...THANKS!

[Happy in Wyoming]

You're doing what you can; he knows it and loves you for it. Don't worry about too much sleeping. I have a 15 yo who sleeps almost all of the time. He's not blind but he has arthritis, some hearing loss, and some cognitive problems. I just try to keep him comfortable. He has a new ramp from the back door to the yard and loves it. My 10 yo old is finally realizing that he can't play roughhouse any more. But she's slowing down and sleeps more, too.

Try to do things that your dog likes whether it's a walk, a ride, or getting a new toy. He's small so hold him in your lap as much as you can. Can he have treats that are pure meat; ask your vet.

I know you feel helpless but remember the best thing you can give him is love.

[lashly]

Thanks for the comforting words.