Jess Martin fell in love with a charming Staffordshire named Amos, who was born blind, while volunteering at her local animal rescue organization. When he learned that he was having difficulty finding his forever family, he quickly welcomed him into his home. What began as a temporary foster home for Amos quickly became the home that would change his life forever.
Jess worried about how Toby, her 9-year-old son, would react to his new foster brother. Toby is Jess’s best friend. They’d had some fantastic adventures together and built a wonderful bond, so the prospect of expanding her little family sounded a little intimidating. The friendship between Toby and Amos blossomed after a few days of uncertainty.Amos had never lived in a home before Jess, having spent his entire life in a rescue center. Amos would punch the walls, get scared by the sounds of the television and get tired of the feel of the carpet on his paws. Simple tasks, like finding the water bowl, were extremely difficult for the blind puppy.
Toby was initially distrustful of Amos, but Jess soon observed something extraordinary. Toby would nudge Amos in the right direction if she saw him struggling to find his water bowl. What started as an occasional gentle nudge evolved until Amos had his own guidance from him. Jess and her family were aware that they had acquired another dear friend.
As Amos grew up, he was examined by an ophthalmologist. It was determined that his eyes were likely causing him daily pressure and pain, and that removing them would be the most compassionate decision. Toby took on the role of Amos’ “unofficial guide dog” shortly after the surgery.
Amos was nervous when he and Toby went out for the first time. The surrounding noises scared him and he had to take regular breaks to lie down and regroup. Toby would immediately lie down next to him and wait for him to be ready to continue!
Now, walking in the hills is one of these furry best friends’ favorite activities! Toby guides Amos up the hills with body pushes and shoves, and if he strays, he helps him get back on track.
“They have formed a good relationship and are aware of each other’s limitations.”
Amos has learned the art of walking, but he still has a lot to learn about socializing and how to interact with other dogs. Toby will often act as a go-between in these encounters, as many dogs are scared by the fact that Amos cannot communicate like a normal dog. Every day, Jess and Toby work together to improve their social skills!
Toby is without a doubt the best guide and bodyguard Amos could have asked for! They had found a partner for life in each other.
