Jess Martin fell in love with an adorable 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 evolved into the home that would impact his life forever.

Jess was worried about Toby, her 9-year-old terrier, reacting to his adopted brother. Jess’s best friend was Toby. They’d had some fantastic adventures together and created a wonderful bond, so the prospect of expanding her little family sounded a little intimidating. Toby and Amos’ friendship blossomed after a few days of uncertainty.

Amos had never lived in a house before Jess because he had spent his entire life in a rescue center. Amos crashed into walls, was terrified by the sounds of the television, and even got tired of feeling the rug on his paws. Simple tasks, like finding the water bowl, were extremely difficult for the blind puppy.

At first, Toby was skeptical about 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 into Amos receiving guidance of his own. Jess and her family knew they had gained another dear friend.

Amos was examined by an ophthalmologist as he grew older. It was determined that his eyes were most likely causing daily pressure and agony, 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 for a walk together for the first time. The surrounding noises would scare him and he would have 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!

Walking in the hills is now one of the furry best friends’ favorite activities! Toby guides Amos through the hills by punching and pushing his body, 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 hiking, but he still has a lot to learn about socialization and how to socialize with other dogs. Toby will often act as a go-between during these encounters because many dogs are frightened by Amos’s inability to speak like a normal dog would. 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 hoped for! They had discovered in each other a companion for life.