Each week, animals from overcrowded shelters are brought to PHS for a third chance at finding a new home. When the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA (PHS) transfer coordinator first learned about Coco, she was sitting scared and alone at a shelter at the far northern edge of Los Angeles County. Coco could tell she was in a new place, but she couldn’t see a thing. The eight-year-old Shih Tzu/Maltese mix’s eyes were clouded over with cataracts. Her coat was matted and filthy, likely a marker of the years she had spent neglected as an outdoor dog.
Within a week of arriving at the crowded municipal shelter, Coco was on the move again. This time, she was loaded into a carrier and put into a van with other dogs. She could sense she was on the road, but didn’t know where she was going. A few hours later, she arrived at PHS as part of the shelter’s transfer program.
“Another kennel? “she probably wondered, as she took in the sounds and smells. Soon, PHS medical staff came to check on her. The veterinarian determined she was at least eight years old and was blind.
Despite her condition, Coco seemed happy to be in new surroundings. She’s always at the front of her kennel wagging her little tail. She greets her favorite volunteers with enthusiasm. After lots of belly rubs, she curls up in a volunteer’s lap and take a nap.
At PHS, Coco is getting the support she deserves. Great food, cuddles from the volunteers, and long walks, but she still doesn’t have a home. People walk right past her concerned about the care she needs.
Today, I am asking someone out there to consider making Coco part of your family. She is a sweet, kind girl that will make someone an amazing friend. Don’t let her age or disability sway you. She is still spunky and has a lot of love to offer. I promise, she will not let you down.
Here are a few things to know about adopting an older, blind dog, like Coco:
- Pets can adapt to your home very easily. By dog proofing your home and always keeping food dishes and furniture in the same place, you can build a physical routine in your home.
- Using specific sounds to let your pet know you are coming will help her adapt to changes. Speaking to her regularly can help you with loneliness and can help them know where you are at all times.
- Your veterinarian will help you by placing her on a senior wellness program that will ensure many more years to come.
- If you are over 65 yourself, her adoption fee is free as part of the Pasadena Humane Society senior for senior program.
- Special toys with scents and sounds can help keep her occupied and engaged.
- Blind dogs cannot read another animal’s body language easily so any introductions need to be slow and thoughtful.
- An animal’s life span varies depending on its health and continued care so you may still have lots of time to bond. And if not, you have made a huge difference in an animal’s life while you had them.
Coco is available for adoption at the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA. If you are interested in learning more about her, please reference A453393. Our medical team is recommending that her adopter follow up with a veterinary eye specialist.
You can meet Coco and other adoptable pets Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. View more pets at pasadenahumane.org.