International Blind Dog Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Blind Dog

International Blind Dog Day is celebrated on August 23 and is a day to honour blind canines. Blind dogs are comparable to any other category of disabled animals or humans. They are generally healthy and can function as optimally as regular canines, with the exception that they require guidance and likely expert training to function despite their blindness. There are a variety of causes and contributors to canine blindness, ranging from disease to old age. Common causes of canine blindness include cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, and SARDS (suddenly acquired retinal degeneration).

The background of International Blind Dog Day

Dogs date back tens of thousands of years to a time when their primary function was to aid humans in hunting. Over the years, dogs have transitioned from hunters to pets, companions, law enforcement and military auxiliaries, etc. The earliest accepted dog remains were unearthed in Germany, and they were determined not to be those of a wolf. They dated back 14,000 years, were discovered interred with two humans, a male and a female, and their cause of death was determined to be ‘canine distemper.’

It is impossible to analyse the origin of the domestic dog apart from its genetic evolution and divergence from its closest living relative, the wolf. Ancient and modern dogs share a common ancestry from a now-extinct ancient wolf with a distinct lineage than that of the modern wolf, according to research. It is believed that the ancestor of the modern dog was most likely the late Pleistocene wolf. The dog is a member of the canids that resemble wolves.

Due to their long association with humans, canines exhibit the most human-friendly behaviours of all animals, and many of their health problems are related to human nature. Blind canines have existed for the same amount of time as regular dogs. However, it wasn’t until very recently that impaired dog care became a top priority. International Blind Dog Day was created to raise awareness among dog owners.

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Activities on International Blind Dog Day

Defend the B.D.R.A.

The Blind Dog Rescue Alliance is dedicated to the rescue and caring of blind dogs. International Blind Dog Day can be observed by assisting them.

Take in an impaired dog.

This may be difficult if you’ve never done it before, but if you’re willing to commit, it’s worthwhile. Check with your local shelter or the SPCA to see if any blind canines are available for adoption. It requires effort and should not be undertaken on an impulse.

Engage with Social Media

Join the online conversation. If you own an impaired dog, you can share photos on Instagram (or any other social media platform) with the hashtag #InternationalBlindDogDay.

5 Interesting Facts Regarding Blind Dogs

Blind dogs are readily adaptable and are not a burden on their owners, despite their blindness and increased care needs.

In contrast to humans, who rely heavily on their sight for fundamental sensory functions, dogs can function significantly better without sight and can be trained just as easily as dogs with sighted eyes.

Generally, dogs rely on more than just their eyesight to navigate; they can also hear, smell, and sense their surroundings.

Blindness is not a cause of depression in canines; with the proper support, blind dogs can live as healthy and happy lives as any other dog.

Blind canines can serve as watchdogs if their other senses, in addition to their eyesight, are functional.