Maltese and cataracts

Hi, I have a four year old, pretty much blind, Maltese - Sassy. Does anybody know of any programs in Ontario that would help me pay to get her eyes fixed. I have been told by three vets in this area that it would cost me $1000 per eye. Have been told that it is a side effect from being a purebred. This poor thing was an abused dog, kicked across the room and stuff, but they don't think that had anything to do with it. Ideas?

I don't think it is "because" she's a purebred, but I think it is probably because she comes from bad breeders. :(

What about the Guelph Vet college? They might do it cheaper because it's a good learning procedure.

Here is a site that explains the different onsets of cataracts.There is one that is hereditary,which the Maltese is not included in.Read the part that states trauma.This could definately be the cause.

I suggest calling the vets at the University in Guelph.I am sure they can help you. :)

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1606&articleid=407

Hey Missy,it's 1:22am.GET TO BED....LOL

LOL because of you I'm looking up cataracts in small doggies!!!!! :mad: :D

So far I've found that Bichons, Beagles, Lhasa Apsos, Minpins, Shih Tzus, Westies, Yorkies all have some form of genetic cataracts, so if this dog is from a mill, chances are it has genes from one of the above too....

Oops, sorry to keep everyone awake. Thanks for the info though. However, if you were to see this poor thing, you'd understand. There's been many nights where I have to go and get her from the middle of the kitchen floor because she's "lost". Seems to be worse at night. Strange. Crazy dog too.

Is she completely blind at this time. Either way you may want to do some simple scent training with her. Pick a few scents. Atleast one to be a scent for danger. If you are interested I can let you know what to so.

I can tell you what you fur baby is seeing right now. Not too much, it is like looking through a glass covered with vasaline. You see I have fast growing cataracts in both eyes so I feel for your dog. I am going into the doctor tomorrrow and they will decide when they are going to operate. The only difference in the surgery is I don't have to wear a cone when I get home. :p
I wish you all the best with your little pookie. Oh by the way in dog years I am about 6. Not old at all lol.

Stacey, scent training? Never heard of it. I just know that when she is in a dark room that she will stay there and bark until I go and get her. She jumps up to me when she's about three feet away. This dog is only 6 lbs, so it hurts her when she walks into doorways and stuff. However, she does always manage to find the cats!! She drags them all over the house, and they let her. lol. What is scent training?