Gizmo

Update

“Sweet little Gizmo is living a happy and full life now that he’s out of the puppy mill. Cataracts blinded him long before we saved him, but thanks to the generosity of one of our supporters, Gizmo has his very own halo from Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs. He can now navigate safely and bump-free in his forever home.”

Kim L.

Update

“Gizmo, a blind Yorkshire terrier that was rescued as part of our Operation: Hundred Hearts rescue had a special gift donated to him. Gizmo has bilateral mature cataracts and the specialists do not know exactly how long he has been blind, but they do know that his eyes were left untreated for some time, causing him needless pain. A group called “Muffin’s Halo for Blind Dogs” found out about Gizmo and donated a halo to him. A halo is a custom-designed device that protects blind dogs from bumping into walls and objects. It is a great aid in helping blind dogs become familiar with existing or new surroundings quickly. A halo is lightweight and comfortable and does not obstruct a dog’s normal daily activity, helping them get their self-confidence back. Gizmo is currently in foster care and was fitted with his wings this past week. His foster family told us that “at first he just stood still and wasn’t sure about moving. They put little pieces of cheese on the floor and he started walking around and looking for the cheese. It was very cool to see him exploring the room, and when he bumped into a chair and a table, it didn’t seem to bother him! He was used to staying on the kitchen floor and his wings gave him the courage to walk into the living room and all around this new space.” On behalf of Gizmo and everyone at NMDR, we wanted to thank “Muffin’s Halo” for their kindness and generosity in donating a halo for Gizmo! For more information about Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs please visit their Facebook page.”

Kim L.

Backstory

“Gizmo spent the first 9 years of his life as a commercial breeding dog. He lived every moment of those 9 years in the confines of a small cube of wire with two or three other dogs. His worth was measured in only one way; his ability to produce puppies. Throughout his 10 years in captivity,Gizmo’s feet never touched the ground, he never took a breath of fresh air and he was never touched with the kindness of a loving hand. If all of that isn’t sad enough, Gizmo is also totally blind….

On Feb. 2, Gizmo’s life changed forever. He was rescued by National Mill Dog Rescue during Operation: Hundred Hearts. The NMDR rescue team traveled 2,000 miles to pick up 101 dogs in three different states that weekend. Gizmo was handed over to the loving hands of our team and driven to Lily’s Haven, NMDR’s kennel facility in Colorado. Finally, Gizmo was able to explore life outside the cage. He was placed in a spacious kennel with a friendly roommate to show him around. Carefully, he navigated the entire area, walking slowly and sniffing every inch. A mat was placed under his food and water so he would know where to eat and drink and a comfy bed was placed on a soft blanket so he knew where to rest and sleep. Every day, Gizmo is greeted with kind words, loving hands and hugs and kisses. His happiness with his new life was quickly evident as he wagged his tail and listened attentively to the new world around him. Gizmo has won over many hearts over the past few weeks. He is truly a survivor.

Gizmo is a friendly and courageous little dog. He loves to be held and enjoys experiencing the big world he has come to know.

Gizmo would love to try a Muffin’s Halo! His new found freedom would be greatly enhanced by wearing a Halo. Knowing he could go anywhere without bumping into objects, would surely bring Gizmo great joy.”
Kim L – National Mill Dog Rescue