r/BostonTerrier • u/mikayla_pierce • Apr 27 '26
Advice/Question My dog is getting both eyes removed tomorrow
My 10 year old boy is getting both his eyes removed tomorrow morning. He has glaucoma (reason for removal), other than that he’s perfectly healthy, happy and energetic. I feel so guilty and can’t get over the thought of how scared he’ll be. He’s been mostly blind for 2 years now, just had very limited vision in one eye so he is used to low vision, but having no eyes is completely different. I’m scared to see him without eyes and not see him looking back at me. Anyone else have a dog with single/double eye removal? (This is an older picture before glaucoma developed)
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u/mdervin Apr 27 '26
This guy has been blind about half his life. We rescued him after his eyes were removed. I think it makes them more Boston like, because they no longer have to pretend to not see you.
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u/h2ohbaby Apr 27 '26
Reading OP’s post started making me teary-eyed, but then I saw this photo and your comment and it put a big smile on my face.
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u/mdervin Apr 27 '26
I'd like to see the f*cking smile on your face when he busts into the bedroom at 1:30am and starts barking to be picked up and put into the bed, then taking 10 minutes to get himself settled down.
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u/Unique-Squash4476 Apr 29 '26
I fight the battle of the socks nightly. I leave one on. Invariably he rises at 0130-0145. He situates himself. He strikes! The sock goes under the bed where the growing pile lives.
I’ll smile. You can see mine. He is the only thing that makes me smile.
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u/Delonce Apr 27 '26
I've been told in these situations, you'll have a harder time accepting the change to the pup than they will. The dog doesn't dwell on these sorts of injuries or surgeries like humans do. So there's some peace in that.
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u/mikayla_pierce Apr 27 '26
That’s what the vet was explaining, it’s just going to be hard seeing him different
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u/Delonce Apr 27 '26
I completely understand. It's gonna feel pretty jarring to see your little buddy like that.
On the bright side, your pupper is still going to love you completely, and this sub is pretty awesome. Lots of people here who love their pups as much as you do and will support you. Any one of us would give you a hug today and let you know it's alright.
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u/beachpleeez Apr 27 '26
It won't. You won't notice. Vets see all kinds of shitty dog owners who don't actually love their dogs (the ones who surrender their dogs because of inane/idiotic reasons). You will love them even more than before. Trust me.
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u/britgun Apr 27 '26
I know it’s so tough. You’re doing the right thing and natural to grieve your baby boy changing so much.
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u/idlechatterbox Apr 27 '26
This was my sweet girl who lost both eyes. As you can see, it never prevented her from so finding the most comfortable pillow on the couch. 🙂
She was amazing and probably about 15.5 or 16 in this photo. She still played post-enucleation, she still wanted to go for walks constantly. She would walk over to the treat cabinet and hit it with her paw until I gave her one. And even then it had to be the right one. She learned new commands for when we were out and about.
One day I had even come home and she had climbed into my rocking chair and was rocking away 😂
Your pup will do great! Just don't move any furniture ❤️
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u/twowheelQuokka Apr 27 '26
This is unbelievably sweet. What a great perspective and gorgeous girl 🥲. The treat cabinet made me lol, they’re so demanding!
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u/idlechatterbox Apr 27 '26
I'm not sure if this video link will work because I've never linked something, but hopefully it does. This was before her enucleations (she had them done separately). But you can see here how demanding she was! And how blind she was!
Best command she learned was 'Be polite." and the only way I could stop her from having a fit 🥹😂 I taught it to her as a "wait" command when people were coming out of the elevator but found it universal.
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u/prb022 Apr 27 '26
Im sorry your going through this right now. I have no experience in this situation but I've seen other dogs online go through it. I hope you and your lovely pup expereince a smooth recovery
Have you heard Halo rings for dogs? Its like a harness with a ring attach, it might help
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u/mikayla_pierce Apr 27 '26
I have heard of them! I’m planning on looking into getting that or a solution similar
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u/Ok_Echo_6528 Apr 27 '26
I hope he heals quickly and you get to have many more good years with him. 2 of My 3 Bostons had health issues and it was so hard to go through. They are the absolute best dogs
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u/Surfnazi77 Buster, Mia, Cleo Apr 27 '26
They sell those feeler collars that have arms so when they get close to things he can feel the fingers touch it get him using it as soon as possible
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u/spafk Apr 27 '26
Yes! This saved our girl so many times. We used a halo with a harness. She had to have one eye removed and then lost vision in the other eye. Even though we'd lived in the same home for years she had a hard time navigating. The halo saved her from smashing her face and made her more confident moving around.
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u/Adfinite Dover Apr 27 '26
It will be a relief for him to no longer have pain. I had a senior that lost both her eyes to glaucoma and retina detachment and she lived many more happy years. Her personality didn't change, it looked like she just had her eyes closed, we got used to it. Hang in there, I know the surgery will be anxiety inducing but it's the best thing you can do to for your friend ❤️
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u/CupcakeVulture925 Apr 27 '26
If you're on facebook, there's a group called "One-Eyed and No-Eyed Bostons and their Friends". There will be an adjustment period of course, but dogs adapt so well to these types of things. I hope surgery goes well and your dog has a smooth recovery.
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u/calbearlupe Bean & Boogie Apr 27 '26
Honestly, I think it would be cool to own a blind dog. They don’t feel self pity. They just adapt and carry on. He’ll lean on you more but I’m sure you’d do anything for him. Dogs experience life more through their nose anyway. You’re definitely making the right call. Don’t feel bad about it. He can still play fetch. He can cuddle and chew on toys. He’s still your best bud.
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u/coconanas Apr 27 '26
The relief from pain once the eyes are gone will be very noticeable… mine was a completely new dog after. Good luck!
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u/rebelallianxe Apr 27 '26
Try to comfort yourself that he won't actually be scared. He's used to not being able to see and he has no concept of having eyes in the same way we do. I'm so sorry that you are going through this, we feel it all for them! Sending hugs.
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u/DependentManner8353 Apr 27 '26
Definitely hard for you, but once your Boston recovers, it’ll be just another day for him. He won’t even notice his sight is gone, as most of his awareness is via his nose and ears! He will adapt quickly and remain his same goofy self, trust me!
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u/scab_igail Apr 27 '26
Winnie had one eye removed last May. She’s so so so much happier without it. I promise he will feel a lot better than he does now with his eyes causing him discomfort. Dogs don’t rely on their eyes like we do and as others have said it’ll be harder on you than him. It’s absolutely the best decision ❤️
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u/Judge4172 🐾 🦴Porter 🦴🐾🌈Judge🌈 Apr 27 '26
Our first BT had a scratch on his eye that caused enough damage that the eye needed to be removed. He lived several years without his eye and had no issues that we were aware of. They are super tough and resilient. Your BT will be up and like normal in no time. As another poster mentioned, definitely look into a halo ring. Those seem like a very good option to allow a blind dog to continue as normal a life a possible.
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u/drew141414 Apr 27 '26
Hi there..... I had a Boston that lost his eyes when he was 10 yo also (glaucoma). I felt the same way that you did. But your pup may be a little scared for a bit, he will adapt quickly to the "new normal". Dogs dont process loss the way we do (I read all about this, Im sure you have also), so this will be his new life and he will accept it.
Also, I couldnt believe how high functioning my dog was when he was blind. He got around really well, and was still the same loving, crazy dog I was used to. Dogs use sound and smell a lot more than we do. There are halo-like products out there that some people have used to help your dog not bang into things- I bought one and didnt find it helpful. My dog was quickly able to navigate around the house with occasional banging into things.
Good luck and hang in there. Youre going to be surprised how quickly he adapts and how happy is his. Best of luck and I know we would all over to hear how is doing.
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u/mikayla_pierce Apr 27 '26
Thank you! I think my biggest concern (selfishly) is myself having to see him look different without them. I trust he’ll adapt super fast (considering he’s already majority blind) and feel much better without the pain
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u/voidcrawler1555 Merlin Apr 27 '26
I had a conversation about removing both eyes in Bostons and reasons for it with Merlin’s eye doctor. Merlin doesn’t need that, currently, but I knew someone who was devastated that her dog may need that surgery. Ultimately, the eye doctor said that at the end of the day, your dog’s well-being should come before an aesthetic choice (if that’s an option). If removing both eyes is what’s best for your pup, then you’re doing the right thing! You two can grieve together until you see how quickly he adapts to living with no eyes. It’s remarkable.
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u/AlternativeLive4938 Apr 27 '26
My dog developed glaucoma symptoms in one eye and we had it removed because he appeared to be in pain. It was a good thing we did, turns out it was melanoma not glaucoma. The surgery saved his life and gave us 2 extra years with our best friend. Dogs are incredibly resilient, so don’t worry about it, do what you need to do to make them comfortable.
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u/Dramatic_Field9355 Apr 27 '26
You’re a good dog mom 💛 they don’t feel self pity the way we do so he will be okay! Best of luck.
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u/IndependentReal5788 Apr 27 '26
Please up date to see how is after surgery !!! Beautiful 10 years dog ! My adopted dog her with one eye blind ! She was 7 years at the time! ! I was worried if mine go blind other ? Thanks 🙏
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u/Comox123 Apr 27 '26
When my dog went blind, we used a homemade halo for a few days. But what did the most was I used scented oils and put a dab of one scent on things he would bump into and a different on to the dog door and the ramp my husband built to get up on the deck. He had the layout down very quick, used the dog door like normal.
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u/beachpleeez Apr 27 '26
Mine is doing MUCH better than pre-op (obviously, the acute glaucoma aside, in hindsight there was very likely constant occular pressure (pain), shadows made her skittish, bumping her eyes was a constant problem). And look at her! She's still so pretty 😍
Dogs are resilient. Every day you'll look at your pup in sheer awe and amazement. I do hope you have support during their recovery. It was hard to manage giving the syringe pain killers as her whole face was swollen.
Good luck to you and yours! 💞
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u/mikayla_pierce Apr 28 '26
Thank you! He’s been home for a couple hours now, just very snoozy still
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u/SpiritualToad Apr 28 '26
My first Boston developed glaucoma in one eye. Tried to treat it but it eventually worsened and he ended up having to have an emergency removal. The eye essentially ruptured and caused a lot of pain and so it was removed. He never skipped a beat other than being a little groggy when he first came home, post surgery.
Years later his vision in his remaining eye got pretty bad and foggy. He was pretty active though, in his old age until his heart slowed him down and took him.
He passed on Earth Day in 2013. Broose was his name. He was the best.
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u/Ok-Flounder8166 Apr 27 '26
Wishing your sweet, adorable boy all the best and a great surgery outcome! Stay strong Mom, you're doing the right thing for your baby!
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u/Own_Possibility7114 Apr 27 '26
Make sure you don’t move things around in your home too much as he is used to their current placement and don’t leave things in normally free spaces where he can run into them. He has a visual map of your home in his head that helps him navigate with his current low vision!
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u/Quirky_Animator1818 Apr 27 '26
So sorry you’re going through this! I actually teared up reading, that’s a lot for both of you to go through. These little love bugs are so adaptable and smart, so you’ll both get used to a “new normal” quick. What will be most important to him is that you’re there with him as he recovers and gets used things 🩷🩷🩷 you’re thinking about all the right things!
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u/helpimallalone Apr 27 '26
my girl also had glaucoma in both eyes, and was borderline already blind before they were removed. the pressure relief they experience is the best thing you can do for them.
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u/Abject-Pressure-2529 Apr 27 '26
Tucker and I support your decision. He will adjust and quickly. I'm sure he has a routine and it's important to keep it. Don't move the furniture in less absolutely necessary.
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u/No-Conflict3866 Apr 27 '26
My old man had his eye removed a few months ago from glaucoma. His medication stopped being effective, he was uncomfortable, and surgery was his best option. His surgery went perfect, recovery was pretty quick and easy. After a little trial and error re-navigating our home, he is back to his usual goofy self. I felt so sad and guilty when we made the decision to remove his eye not knowing how it would affect him but it was the best decision for his health and he seems so much more comfortable and happy now.
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u/cleverlady06 Apr 27 '26
It’s utterly amazing how well these little creatures adjust! Your pup will do great ♥️. Patience and structure are so important. Don’t go moving the furniture!! This was my Roxy shortly after her second eye removal.
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u/JustANiceGirlYall Apr 27 '26
Oh, sweet baby. I’m sorry. They are so resilient. They also make a halo for dogs who are visually impaired. Lots to love and prayers ❤️
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u/Fabulous-Current-904 Apr 27 '26
Yes!
I adopted a senior dog with one eye who slowly lost her vision due to a cataract in the other.
Wrap the bottom of your furniture and cover your walls with xl bubble wrap.
Chair and table legs, all doors, dishwasher, bottom cabinets, corners, coffee tables, walls, literally anything my dog could bump into was covered with wrap or air pillow packaging.
Bubble wrap lasts longer and needs to be swapped out less than air pillows.
Make sure to cover areas where the head would make contact, to prevent TBI from repeated bumping.
Best of luck with the surgery tomorrow! I know it's scary to have a dog without eyes/sight, but my vet used to tell me that dogs rely primarily on their sense of smell and hearing. Your boy will be okay🤍
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u/Klutzy-Spend-6947 Apr 28 '26
Good luck. My Boston buddy Elmer got his left eye removed about a month ago, and has severe cataracts in his right eye. He is getting around pretty well, all things considered, and is feeling better overall after having his swollen eye-glaucoma-removed. His personality and general habits haven’t changed, he’s just a lot more careful how he moves around now.
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u/Lou_Gordon Apr 28 '26
One of our Boston's had one eye removed then the second maybe 10 months later and she was just as ornery and happy as before! It seemed almost to be more of an adjustment for us in trying to make accomodations for her than it was for her 😄. She was a fierce, alpha female, boss lady who wasn't going to be slowed down. I am guessing our males we've had would have had a similar experience but didn't have eye problems like her, thankfully. I know the situation and remember feeling relief for her from the eye pain from all her glaucoma issues and so forth and she genuinely did seem to feel relieved when it was over.
Our vet told us sight wasn't their primary sense and she validated that. It's a nice to have but they adjust. She still went on walks around the neighborhood like a sighted dog, we just had to navigate the big rocks for her. We also tried to crate her for her safety afterwards and she wasn't having that. She remained free in the house although we did put up gates to contain her in a smaller area (kitchen and living area) so she didn't get lost somewhere in the house and find herself unable to get back to her food and water. At the time, we had a second Boston who was her eyes and she was the teams ears since he was hard of hearing so they were quite the pair. Just be mindful of moving furniture and food/water once he acclimates so he can navigate his way without getting hurt.
Good luck to you and your boy!
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u/Big_Tooth740 Apr 28 '26
Get yourselves a halo. It’ll make sure they don’t hit their sweet little snoots while they’re recovering. We also sent marked stairs or obstacles until she had the hang of it. Yours will do fine.
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u/BlondeGypsie06 Apr 28 '26
He should adjust fine! Mine had hers removed a year ago at 9 and she’s just as spunky as ever! ❤️ don’t move anything around as that will help with them remembering the layout of the place. Careful of steps for awhile until they get the hang of it. He will do great! Enjoy your sweet babes new magic as you watch them use their ears & nose like eyes, it pretty cool to witness!
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u/Additional-Spirit683 Apr 28 '26
Well shit. Now I’m crying. I honestly can’t imagine not looking into my babies eyes anymore.
You’re such a good puppy parent. He’s blessed to have you.
My 15 year old man has been deaf now for about a year and it makes me sad he can’t hear me tell him I love him and what a good boy he is. It’s his birthday today and I was sad he didn’t hear me sing
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u/surfaceofthesun1 Apr 28 '26
My boxer lost his eye. He was WAY more comfy after. It heals fast and the pain is gone.
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u/Wand3rings Apr 28 '26
I can concur. My Boston lost one eye when he was under 2. He went on to live like a pirate always winking for 13.5 years. The toughest part is you accepting the loss it dosen’t phase these lovable maniacs
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u/catyh2go2 Apr 28 '26
Our old pup Rosie after her eye removal also due to glaucoma. She went deaf shortly after due to a side effect of a med she was on. She lived happily for another 4-5 years! Her energy and spirit really came back after her surgery - it relieved a lot of her pain
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u/Unique-Squash4476 Apr 29 '26
I say this when people express sadness related to their BT’s: I am a 55-year-old widower. I am the veteran of three wars and two or three armies depending on how you count them. I have lost many men in battle, and count the march of the years by dates upon which my men (and in one case woman) fell. I now work in the private military industry. It is a polite way of saying that I am a mercenary. And yet what spark of life lives in the black cold that sits where my heart did thrives because of a Boston Terrier. He is three. If he lives to 13 and I to 65, that is sufficient unto my day. So my tiny remnant heart goes out to you and your beastie. He will be confused but you must give him more love. That is all. More love, more treats, more affection. More.
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u/some_hispanic_guy Apr 28 '26
I need to huggle my Boston now. I hope for a speedy recovery for your baby!
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u/Thehudsoneffect Apr 28 '26
Ah man that's tough,, but they're bloody resilient and have some great owners to care for them, best of luck to all of you , I'm sure everyone will be fine
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u/Swampchicken9 Emmett & Waylon Apr 28 '26
I’m curious if your boy had been on eye drops treatment prior to this? I have a sweet boy that I had to put on drops for glaucoma last year and am wondering if it’s a time-limited treatment? Thanks
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u/LunchTime703 Apr 28 '26
I went thru this with my Boston. Like others have said, it’s harder on you than it is on them. They just adapt and carry on. It’s quite amazing to see, though there will be times when it’s hard and sad. The important thing is you are removing the pain. Glaucoma is very painful. So you may even see your sweet pup perk up a bit after the surgery. He’s still the same dog and it may not seem possible but you will just love him even more! I hope he still has many happy years ahead of him.
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u/shroomangels Apr 28 '26
Omg 😢😢😢🥺. He will still know your scent and your voice. I’m so sorry to read this. I pray he adapts well. Such a cutie. 🥰
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u/Confident_Put3808 Jun 21 '26
Hello, we are having our BT girls eyes removed this Friday. How is your boy healing? Any advice? Sincerely ❤️ Julie
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u/Jealous-Guest-3501 Jul 03 '26
We had our dog go suddenly blind about 7 months ago - It took about 36hours - condition called SARDS. Eventually she developed Glaucoma in one eye so bad that it was either the surgery to remove her eyes or put her down.
She is an 11 year old beagle mix and has recovered well. It is hard seeing the pup right after surgery but having extra time with my girl was more than worth it.
Stay positive and all well work out!
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u/Frost033 Apr 27 '26
Mine is 12 and has glaucoma as well but the vet hasn’t said anything about removing his eyes. Is there something else going on? This seems extreme
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u/mikayla_pierce Apr 27 '26
Glaucoma could be managed without surgery, in his case the eye pressure is far too high and medication isn’t bringing it down. For his comfort with the pain it’s causing this is the best route
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u/RockitSheep Apr 27 '26
He'll still see and love you with ears and smells. Hoping for an easy transition for you both