How Smiley the Amazing Blind Therapy Dog brought Smiles to Millions

Smiley was a completely blind gorgeous golden retriever who made everyone he met smile. Smiley was born in a puppy-mill, without eyes. He lived there for two miserable years before being adopted by his family thirteen years ago.Smiley was at Joanne's side for her key milestones like getting married and having her human son Shepherd. He has been the best friend, son and brother anyone could hope for. Smiley did not let the fact that he was blind stop him from doing normal doggy things and more. Smiley never let his disability stand in his way and lived a very good active life. Smiley was a St. John Ambulance therapy dog and he also visited schools for anti-bullying programs. Joanne explained that therapy dogs must be good with socializing and must be able to interact with strangers and children. They must have good manners with anyone.
Smiley helped the kids because he connected with them. He helped them understand that it's OK to be different. He overcame challenges and they can as well, even if their challenge is something like doing math.
Joanne believes Smiley was bullied and bitten by other dogs at the Puppy Mill as he still had a few scars. Joanne says she told the kids about Smiley's scars and blindness and used that to relate to bullying and human abilities or differences. He was a wonderful role model. He didn't judge and was there for them.
Smiley has a book which is a collection of pictures and short stories about his life. Other merchandise like bobble heads and T-shirts are occasionally available too, with revenue used for Pal and Smiley's vet bills and other expenses.

Instagram @smileytheblindtherapydog

Facebook: Smiley The Blind Therapy Dog

Has Smiley or another dog touched your life? Tell us in the comments.

[KatrinaDancer]

Smiley is such a beautiful dog and a beautiful 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[SD-zwbj]

Keep smiling Smiley. U r and will be inspiration to many at present and in future too.

[perrycomo]

“If there are no dogs in heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers.

[schopra]

I want just an iota of his courage and grace 😍💚😘😘😘

[DianaKazimiera-]

You are very lucky to have such a wonderful, unique, beautiful and still smiling dog to all people 💚🐾🐾🕊️

[laylaswoof]

He was amazing and taught so many people, he will be missed

[jacquelinedavy]

smiley god bless you are so beautiful i love you smiley keep on being you take care

[thegoodone]

Im sad that he passed away. I hope he had a good dog life.😢

[EDJ]

I lost part of my soul 1-4-2018 when my Golden "HALSEY" passed away in my arms. Worst day of my life. He truly was GOLDEN. I followed SMILEY & BRETAGNE for many years. The world has a lot less love in it without them. Hopefully, the love they taught us is heeded.

[lauraking]

There will always be a special place in my heart for SMILEY. What an amazing dog he was. He'll never be forgotten.

[ccthegoatcombs]

I have read a book about smiley hes the cutest god bless smiley love

[heddystgeorge]

This is the first time I heard of Smiley's passing. You will be forever missed

[mav]

God bless you Smiley. You will be greatly missed! 🐶💔😓

[swapnaraje]

Awesome
What a cutie
I would've loved to meet him

[lyndsaysrebornnurseryoffib]

Smiley is so beautiful! I just love him!

[animalslover]

Sooo happy for smiley. He's a celebrity, and he deserves all the love, care, and appreciation. Wonderful boy smiley; I'm a big fan of yours 💖😙

[dheyes]

I miss this baby so much. The loss of 4 of my favorite Goldies in less than a year really, really hurts. Smiley, Sugar, Bretagne and Bella all perfect angels in doggie Heaven right where they belong. 🌈💐🐾🐶💋🕊

[naaan]

You are amazing smily . U r the cutest . I love you...

[alexgoodman]

Love you Smiley, you will always hold a special place in my heart.

[bruce]

To me the videos of Smiley playing in the snow are the best.
I could watch those for hours.
Love you smi smi, RIP handsome boy.