When people encounter Josey, they are often astonished to discover that she is a blind dog!
She continually impresses everyone with her unique spirit and determination. With the support of her mom, Colleen, Josie has triumphed over distressing experiences from her past that left lasting marks on her.
Aside from being discovered on the streets, this resilient girl faced another challenge that is truly heart-wrenching.
This is her journey!
Josie’s Background
Josie was found along a roadside in Alabama, accompanied by her furry friend, Roger. A veterinary examination revealed that Josie had suffered significant head trauma, which led to her vision loss.
The initial theory was that Josie had been struck by a vehicle, but curiously, she exhibited no additional injuries. This mysterious girl was cared for by Alabama rescuers before becoming part of the Brown Dog Coalition in Massachusetts.
Then came a heartbreaking revelation!
Colleen McCarthy, a veterinarian, welcomed Josie as a foster dog. While Josie healed, Colleen uncovered the true reason for her blindness! It turned out that Josie wasn’t struck by a car, but rather shot in the face.
According to BDC, pellets remain lodged in her head, cheeks, and ears, but they do not currently necessitate removal.
“After Josie joined her Massachusetts foster mom, @bugsybuttonbellisima, we learned that Josie had been shot in the face. Pellets remain in her head, cheeks, and ears, but as long as they aren’t bothering her, they won’t require removal,” the BDC team shared on Instagram.
Overcoming All Challenges
Colleen never imagined how delightful of a dog Josie would be. She adapted to her new home in Massachusetts almost instantly, proving that she required no special arrangements.
“Despite her heartbreaking history, Josie has somehow maintained her sweet and playful spirit. Her presence has a profound impact on everyone she encounters,” BDC remarked.
Instead, Josie began to reveal her astounding spirit and intelligence! She behaved as though she had no visual impairment at all, making those who met her genuinely believe she could see.
Her sense of orientation is remarkable. In just a few months, Josie learned the layout of her home and even mastered how to use communication buttons.
Her absolute favorite is a dental chew button!
“She adores using buttons to communicate. Her favorite is the dental chew button,” stated Colleen to GeoBeats Animals.
If Colleen doesn’t promptly provide her with a dental stick after she presses the button, Josie becomes increasingly persistent until she gets what she desires.
The greatest irony in Josie’s life is that despite being completely blind, she has the most adorable and expressive eyes.
Her extraordinary character truly enables her to thrive. She continues to embrace life as if her challenging past has never existed, welcoming every new adventure with the enthusiasm of a happy pup.
The most wonderful news arrived shortly after Josie became a foster dog. Colleen decided to adopt Josie, welcoming her into the family permanently. The two bonded so closely that it became impossible to envision life without her.
Momma’s Little Companion
Since then, Colleen has fostered several other dogs, all with the assistance of her wonderful companion! For some reason, foster pups are naturally attracted to Josie, who welcomes them into her home with open paws.
“José has been an incredibly welcoming and nurturing foster sibling to other dogs with disabilities,” Colleen commented.
One specific pup named Joey captured her heart. He arrived as a blind foster dog, and Josie formed a lovely connection with him. They shared kisses, cuddled together, and even frolicked in the yard while being fully aware of each other’s presence and the location of the fence.
When Joey left for his forever home, both Josie and Colleen experienced profound sadness as they tried to cope with his absence.
This courageous girl continues to thrive, making room for other special-needs dogs who require assistance. When not engaging in her noble work, she cherishes her life with her family.
She adores everyone – humans, dogs, and cats, and consistently attempts to shower them with her affection.
Despite all the adversity she faced in her previous life, Josie has chosen not to look back. Instead, she eagerly seizes every chance to make her life filled with joy and excitement. So far, she’s doing an incredible job!
