Stevie, along with another dog named Wonder, was rescued from a backyard in South Carolina, where he had spent the last eight years chained up.
The Lancaster County SPCA facilitated his rescue, working with organizations like Diamonds in the Ruff from New York.
Upon learning about Stevie, Diamonds in the Ruff was compelled to make him a part of their family.
When Stevie first arrived at Diamonds in the Ruff, it became clear he was dealing with several challenges.
Blind and suffering from fleas, worms, and fur loss, Stevie faced additional difficulties when it was discovered that an old corn cob was lodged in his intestines, necessitating surgery.
His foster family needed to be patient as he adjusted to living indoors with a loving family.
Stevie’s foster mom, Erin Boyd, shared with The Dodo, “He slept most of the way [home], but would start growling and barking every so often in his crate.
We realized he was just trying to protect himself. When we got home, he wouldn’t come out of his crate. We were cautious because he couldn’t see and we didn’t know him well yet.”
As Stevie began to recover both physically and mentally, he started to show his true personality.
He transformed into a big-hearted dog, and his foster family was thrilled to witness each of his “firsts,” like sleeping in his own bed for the first time.
Realizing Stevie probably never had a soft bed before, his foster family made sure he had a comfortable dog bed. Stevie was overjoyed when he felt its softness and instantly began jumping for joy.
Now, Stevie can’t help but do his little dance each time he discovers a dog bed. Overcome with excitement at having something cozy to lie on, he makes sure to express his happiness.
“He jumps, sometimes chews on a toy for a bit, and then falls asleep,” Boyd explained.
Despite his blindness, Stevie has adapted remarkably well to his foster home, astonishing everyone with his progress. “He’s so smart,” Boyd said.
“He quickly learned how to navigate my house. He knows the way from the backyard to the garage and up the steps into the home.
Once inside, he waits for a treat in the kitchen and uses my circular ottoman to climb onto my bed. He naps often but also enjoys cuddling, walks, playing with squeaky toys, and giving kisses!”
Stevie is currently looking for a loving family to adopt him locally, one that understands just how special he is.
He needs a pet-free home with someone who can spend a lot of time with him, giving him the affection he missed in his early years.
Boyd adds, “[Someone] who will just cuddle with him on the couch, take him on walks, let him enjoy the sunshine, and shower him with love.”
Though Stevie has endured much hardship, with his cozy dog beds and a family to love, he feels confident that everything will turn out just fine.
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