Life is challenging not just for us but for all the myriad of living beings around us. Meanwhile, life for a differently-abled animal is more of an ordeal considering the fact that they have to fend for themselves. The story of Smiley, a golden retriever, is a reminder that one can still find hope and happiness, no matter how constrained one is, physically.
Smiley was born blind and suffered from dwarfism and other physical issues. It seemed that he wouldn’t get the love and care from his own family, as he spent the first two years of his life at a puppy mill in a small town in Ontario.
But things were about to change, and in 2004, a former veterinarian technician, Joanne George, was sent to the puppy mill to euthanize about 20 dogs that would have required medical care. She found Smiley, living in the most distressing conditions. His ears were split and there were scars on his face, indicating he had a hard time surviving with his disability.
As he began to adjust to his new surroundings, Smiley began to live up to his name. Joanne noticed that Smiley was happy to meet just about everyone he ran into, “he really did something to people.” So, Joanne got him certified to be a therapy dog.
From then on, Smiley visited hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and any place where people needed a boost of love and affection. For years, he taught people how to “live the moment” as he was a symbol of hope and joy despite his disability. He’d become so famous that he even had a meeting with Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister.
But Smiley passed away when he was 15 years old after a brief battle with cancer, leaving behind his contagious positivity. He may have left us, but he is one of those who continues to bring happiness even after they’re gone.
Watch this video of Smiley walking in the snow. Though he is blind and nearly deaf with age, his positive attitude is portrayed as he enjoys himself outdoors.
