Dog News

Stray, blind dog in search of a new life

by Katherine

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130507 Eddie OTAT blind dog
Photo Credit: OTAT

Born without eyes, Eddie, one-year old Chihuahua mix, was wondering the streets of Schaumburg, Ill., when he was picked up and taken to a local animal hospital. With no microchip or identification on him, Eddie waited at the hospital many days. He hoped his owners would come claim him. No one did. The hospital called One Tail at a Time (OTAT) and they came to his rescue. He is now off to a new life.

When found, Eddie appeared to be in perfect health. Aside from not having any eyes, Eddie had no trauma or injuries. The vets believed that his physical impairment was due to a birth defect.

PetMD says that eye defects (congenital) in dogs happen due to exposure to toxic compounds, lack of nutrients, and systemic infections and inflammations during pregnancy. These factors cause puppies to be born with abnormally small eyes, missing eyeballs or hidden eyeballs.

For Eddie, his life-long blindness has not hindered his personality.

130507 Eddie OTAT2
Eddie on his freedom ride.
Photo Credit: OTAT

“Since Eddie was born with no eyes, he is not timid,” said Anna Friedman, rescue manager for OTAT. “He seems more social than any other stray dog. He is well adjusted to his surroundings.”

This is OTAT’s first time dealing with a dog that is missing both eyes. The rescue group has worked with special needs dogs in the past, but never a case like Eddie’s. OTAT has rescued and re-homed dogs that were blind or had one eye missing.

“Eddie is very friendly,” said Friedman. “He acts like a normal dog. He gets around wonderfully and plays well with other dogs.”

Friedman knows that finding a forever home for dogs with special needs takes longer, but she hopes that Eddie’s lively character and quick adaptability will shine through and win the hearts of his forever family soon.

“My guess is that because of his personality he will go quickly,” said Friedman. “We hope! It would be ideal [for Eddie] to go to a home with another dog that can show him the ropes.”

Eddie has been neutered and vaccinated and is currently in foster care. If you are interested in learning more about him and possibly adopting him, you can contact OTAT’s Facebook page or email Anna Friedman at [email protected].