Blind Black Lab Chooses Her Own Guide Dog
Putting Her Down Was Not An Option
When Shelly, a healthy and energetic black lab from Memphis started losing her sight at three, owners Gail and Charles Silverstein knew they had to do something. Putting her down was not an option.
They headed to a nearby animal shelter and let Shelly, with the help of a dog trainer, choose the dog who might become her companion and guide dog. She immediately took to a 2 year old Lab mix named Tommy.
Guide Dog Tommy Tries To Heal Her
It was what happened when they got home that was remarkable. Tommy laid down beside her and began licking her eyes like he knew she was going blind and was trying to heal her.
Tommy Keeps Her Safe
The Silversteins usually walk the dogs on a double leash, but sometimes let Tommy take her for a stroll on his own.
Shelly feels comfortable and safe with her guide dog and Tommy has never lost sight of his mission to lead, and protect.
“She’s never afraid with him around. When strangers come up and she is afraid, he’ll go and comfort her. It’s like he knows that that’s his job,” said Gail.
The Two Dogs Saved Each Other
The Silversteins are sure that Shelly saved Tommy’s life from the shelter but most certainly Tommy saved Shelly’s too.
