Just like people, dogs can end up going blind. Fortunately, just like with people, dogs can utilize a dog companion as a seeing-eye dog. Take Charlie and Maverick for example. These two golden retrievers are a perfect example of one dog, Maverick, helping another dog, Charlie, get around while blind.
Here is the story of these two dog best friends and one helps the other get through life.
A Life Changing Experience
Charlie was born with a normal set of eyes like many dogs. It was only later that he lost his sight in both eyes due to glaucoma, and had to have them removed. Worried about their pet, Charlie’s owners, decided to get another dog to help out. For Charlie, it was a life changing experience, as he met his new best friend, Maverick.
According to Chelsea Stipe, Charlie’s mom: “We originally got Maverick because we wanted our newborn son to grow up with a dog, It just so turned out that he was also helpful to Charlie!”
Charlie’s New Friend
Upon arriving in the Stipe household, Maverick soon noticed there was something different about Charlie. At first it was the fact that Charlie would easily lose toys while the two were playing. Maverick would go get the toys and bring them back so that they could continue playing.
Friends Forever
Soon, Charlie and Maverick were doing everything together, including taking walks, playing, and taking naps. Maverick has breathed new life into Charlie, who is 11-years-old, making him seem like a puppy again occasionally.
According to Stipe, “Charlie has definitely been more playful and puppy-like since Maverick came around. We’d buy him toys and he wouldn’t think about playing with them. Now, they’re just constantly playing with each other.”
The best part about the whole arrangement is that Charlie knows he is not alone, and even if he can’t see his little buddy, he is still there. The two even go on car rides together, sticking their heads out the window to enjoy the breeze.
Happy Together
The two seem to be happy together and share a mutually beneficial relationship. Maverick, for his part, helps Charlie forget about his blindness and the arthritis in his hips. Charlie, meanwhile, teaches Maverick about good behavior, skills that will serve him well, even after Charlie is gone.
Living With a Blind Dog
Just because a dog loses its sight does not mean their life is over. Many blind dogs can adapt to their new condition, even remembering where furniture is located where they live, allowing them to easily get around. As long as you acknowledge your dog, and give your dog plenty of love and attention, your dog should be fine, living a healthy and happy life.
You can also take some steps to make life a little easier on your blind dog, including:
- Placing a plastic mat where your dog’s water bowl and food dish are located. This can help your pet identify its location
- Clear your home of any potential hazards, such as sharp edges, to keep your dog safe.
- Block off areas you want to keep your blind pet out of, such as stairways and other hazards.
They Are So Cute Together
The story of Charlie and his little helper Maverick has touched many. The two even have their own Instagram, Charlieandmav. Here is a video sharing more about the blind dog Charlie and his helper friend Maverick.
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