A three-year-old dog named Louis may have had a tragic and dark past, but his future is now looking bright, thanks to a new family who gave him a second chance at life.
In December of last year, his previous owners had his eyes removed rather than seeking treatment for his seriously infected vision. They also found it hard to care for a blind dog, so they surrendered him to a California-based pound. Fortunately, the good guys at the Helen Woodward Animal Center pulled him out of there and took him to their Rancho Santa Fe facility.
When Louis’ story went viral, the shelter received plenty of support, donation, and adoption applications. It turns out that one of those potential adopters was his perfect match. And recently, Louis, the Lab/shepherd mix, already went home with Marine veteran Steve Walker, his wife Kacey, and daughter Jordan, who are now considered his new family.
And what makes the Walkers an ideal match for Louis? First of all, the family lives within the San Diego area, which allows an easy, travel-free transition for Louis towards his new home. Like his new four-legged companion, Steve is also visually impaired—he started losing his eyesight when he was 18 due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare eye disease. But despite that, he didn’t let this hold him back.
The veteran is a regular marathon and triathlon competitor, making him a role model for his new dog, who is learning the ropes of life without vision. Also, they already adjusted the Walker household to accommodate Steve and his blindness: they have pocket doors and a one-story layout, among others, which will be beneficial to Louis also. Aside from this, Louis will have other canine companions in his new abode. The Walkers already own two other loving rescue dogs who are ecstatic to be Louis’ new best friends.
Jordan said in a statement that their pets are spoiled and well-loved, and they know that Louis will be a perfect addition to their pack.
And along with his new life is guaranteed security. Louis was able to attract a considerable fanbase over the last few weeks, so he won’t be transferred to the Walker household empty-handed. A good Samaritan covered all of his adoption fees. He received a few treats from friends that he will take home with him: one year’s worth of veterinary services, as well as ten sessions of training from San Diego Training, a Petco Gift Card worth $500, a Subaru Loves Pets Adoption Kit from Frank Subaru, a fan artwork from Erika Ho, two bags of Blue Buffalo Pet Food, and a signed card from all the staff of the Helen Woodward Animal Center.
If this happy ending from Louis has inspired you to donate towards the medical care of animal orphans like Louis, you may reach out to Renee Resko, the shelter’s VP of Development at (858) 756-4117 x 347 or visit https://my.animalcenter.org/campaign/save-pets-like-louis/c321245.
Source: Helen Woodward Animal Center / Facebook
