Adopt a Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed

*Blind Joey is sponsored by the Shpigel family*

Breed: Pit Bull Terrier Mix

Gender: Male

Estimated Date of Birth: March 14, 2016

Size:  45 lbs

Location:  Buford, GA

RESCUING BLIND JOEY

Blind Joey was turned into Fulton County as a stray with a chain and padlock around his neck in February 2017. Not only is he blind, Joe is heartworm positive. If that wasn't enough, he also suffers from black dog syndrome, where he is constantly overlooked because he is a black dog. The shelter is no place for a vision-impaired guy even if it is better than being chained up outside. Luckily, we had a foster family step-up for Joe and we were able to give him his freedom ride.

ABOUT BLIND JOEY

Joey is a medium sized boy. He has a gorgeous chocolate brown-black coat. What makes Joey so special is that he is blind. Though he cannot see, he is very savvy getting around, and does not let his disability get in the way. All Joey wants is love and attention and he is all about giving hugs. Although he is blind, he seeks out people, is fully of tail-wags, and learns his way around rather quickly. Joe love people and has done well with the other dogs he has met. He loves curling up with his Foster Mom, and enjoys a good belly-rub! Joey is super calm and gentle. His foster parents say that he is such a joy to have around.

Joey went to the doggie ophthalmologist, Dr King, and was diagnosed with Progressive Retinal Atrophy, also known as PRA. This means that Joey was born with sight, but his retinas have been deteriorating over time, causing him to lose his vision. They assured us that it is not painful, however there is nothing that can be done. It is rare to see PRA in pit bulls, so they were surprised Joey has PRA. As of now, he is completely blind in his right eye, but we feel he can see some bright lights and shadows in his left. We do not know how long it will be until the vision in his left eye is completely gone as well, but it is not really much use to him anyway the way it is now. Joey has a halo vest which is kind of like a canine version of a walking cane used by blind humans. It allows Joey to feel when he's about to bump into an object. Joey is pretty good at navigating without his vision.

Photo Album of Joey: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1534422209949273.1073742190.162554320469409&type=1&l=7927a2ab08

Our adoption fee is $250. All dogs are current on vaccinations, spayed or neutered, micro-chipped, on heartworm prevention, and are fed top of the line grain-free food.