Blind Therapy dog Smiley’s joy is infectious and healing to boot!

By Maria Kyriacou

Blind Therapy dog Smiley’s joy is infectious and healing to boot!
Meet Smiley - the incredible, blind Golden Retriever helping the mentally ill and the disabled.

We could all learn a thing or two about having a positive outlook on life from this adorable pooch whose moniker fits him to a T!

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Despite hailing from a puppy mill and being blind from birth this therapy dog is a true champ, motivating and charming everyone he comes into contact with, especially in his work as a therapy dog.

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Smiley’s eyes were sewn shut from birth to protect him from getting infections. He makes great use of his other senses.

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His owner and professional dog trainer Joanne explains that although he’s likely to bump into you, he gets along just fine.

“When he’s running towards you, he doesn’t know when to stop! In fact, as he’s going about his doggy business — sniffing, listening, frolicking, nuzzling — you forget that he has a disability.” They have a special relationship based on trust, with Smiley taking his cues from her voice and footsteps.

 

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This lovely golden retriever is always courteous extending a hand to say hello and guarding his home.

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How could anyone resist this kind, courteous pooch. He’s a credit to his owner and a gift to the world.

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