An animal’s ability to enjoy life despite medical conditions is astonishing.
Rascal, an approximately 8-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, was brought to the shelter as a stray on July 29. Rascal’s sweet nature and his love of being held endeared him to the shelter staff. Upon physical exam, the doctor noted that Rascal was not neutered, and that his teeth were in need of attention. Most noticeable upon exam were cataracts in both eyes, with the left eye being worse than the right.
Cataracts are a discoloration of the lens of the eye, making the eye have a milky appearance. There are many causes of cataracts, including age, trauma, and diabetes. Because of the clouding of the lens, the affected dog has reduced vision or is completely blind in the affected eye. The cloudier the eye, the worse the vision is for the pet.
Cataracts do not normally require treatment, but some pet owners opt for surgical removal of the cataract. Once the cataract is removed, the pet will be able to see again. If the owner does not opt for surgery, the pet can still have a good quality of life. If there is one eye not affected by a cataract, the pet will be able to adjust to seeing out of one eye. If both eyes are affected causing complete blindness, pets are still able to adapt to life without sight.
Because the cataract in Rascal’s right eye is not severe, he is still able to see out of the that eye. He is able to carry out his daily activities with no difficulties, and loves to run and jump.
Before he could go up for adoption, Rascal needed two procedures. He was taken to the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Clinic where he was neutered and had a dental cleaning.
Once both of the procedures were completed, Rascal was ready to be adopted!
Rascal is a very snugly little guy with a sweet, quiet personality. Come visit him and see why he deserves a loving home!