Dog Who Was Chained For 8 Years Can’t Believe He’s Getting His Own Bed

Stevie was rescued from a South Carolina backyard (together with another dog named Wonder), where he had been tied up for much of his eight years of life. He was brought up by the Lancaster County SPCA, which collaborates with other rescue organizations such as Diamonds in the Ruff in New York. When Diamonds in the Ruff learned about Stevie, they realized he had to be a part of their rescue family.

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

When Stevie initially arrived to Diamonds in the Ruff, it was evident that he had a lot on his plate. Stevie was not only blind, but he also had fleas, worms, and lost fur. They eventually discovered he had an old corn cob caught in his intestines, which required surgery to remove. In addition to dealing with his medical difficulties, his foster family had to be patient with him as he adjusted to life inside with a loving family.

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

“He slept the most of the way [home], but would start snarling and barking every now and then in his box,” Stevie’s foster mom, Erin Boyd, told The Dodo. “We realized he was only trying to protect himself. We carried the box inside when we arrived home, and he refused to get out. We were particularly cautious since he couldn’t see and we didn’t know him yet.”

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

Stevie began to come out of his shell as he began to heal physically and mentally, and it wasn’t long before he’d changed into the biggest mush of a dog. His foster family enjoyed seeing him experience so many firsts, including the first time he slept in his own bed.

Stevie’s foster family understood he had probably never slept on a soft dog bed before, so they made sure to provide him with one. He was so pleased when he felt how soft it was with his paws that he instantly began jumping for joy.

Stevie now needs to perform his little jumping dance whenever he comes across a dog bed. He’s just overjoyed to have something that’s supposed to make him feel nice and comfy, and he needs to show everyone how pleased he is all the time.

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

“He bounces, occasionally chews on a toy, and then passes out,” Boyd explained.

Stevie has adjusted incredibly well to his foster family despite his blindness, and everyone is amazed at how far he’s gone.

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

“He’s really clever,” Boyd added. “He rapidly figured how how to go about my place.” He can get from the backyard to the garage and up the three stairs to the home. When he walks in, he knows to wait for a reward in the kitchen and to jump on my little circular ottoman to climb onto my bed. He naps a lot, but he also enjoys snuggling, going on walks, chewing on noisy toys, and giving kisses!”

CREDIT: ERIN BOYD

Stevie is presently available for adoption, and he’s seeking for a local family who understands and respects how unique he is. He requires a home with no other pets, preferably with someone who is home frequently and can provide him with all of the attention he missed out on during his first eight years.