Smiley, an extraordinary golden retriever who was born blind, faced several physical challenges including dwarfism. Despite his difficult start in life, he became a symbol of hope and happiness. Smiley spent the first two years of his life trapped in a puppy mill, enduring unimaginable hardships in a small Ontario town. In 2004, fate intervened when Joanne George, a former veterinary technician, was tasked with a heart-wrenching mission of euthanizing approximately 20 dogs in need of medical care at the puppy mill. During this somber assignment, George crossed paths with Smiley, a dog with scars on his face and cruelly split ears.
George understood that Smiley’s life was a constant struggle due to his disability. She refused to let his spirit fade away and made a courageous decision to find new homes for all the dogs, including Smiley. Despite her tireless efforts to find a family for Smiley, no one seemed willing to take on the responsibility of a blind dog. That’s when George had an epiphany – Smiley was meant to be with her.
As Smiley settled into his new home, George discovered that his infectious happiness was truly his defining trait. He carried a perpetual smile on his face and radiated joy to everyone he encountered. Recognizing the incredible impact Smiley could have on people’s lives, George decided to have him certified as a therapy dog. From that moment forward, Smiley began making visits to hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and anywhere else his boundless love and affection were needed. He taught people the art of living in the moment and quickly became a symbol of hope and happiness, defying his disability.
As time passed, Smiley’s popularity only increased, and he even managed to capture the attention of Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister. Those who had the pleasure of meeting Smiley often professed that their lives were forever changed by his unrelenting positivity and infectious spirit.
Regrettably, Smiley’s life came to a close when he was only 15 years old due to a short fight against cancer. Nevertheless, his memory persists and his enthusiastic and cheerful disposition still influences the lives of numerous individuals, even though he is no longer physically present. Despite his absence, Smiley continues to be one of those exceptional individuals who bring joy to others.
Smiley, we are grateful for the happiness you have brought us.
