Starr is Pomeranian, age 11, in Corona, CA, who needs $2,000 for treatment for an auto-immune disease.

I adopted Starr from a local Pomeranian rescue in the Summer of 2017. I was looking for a companion for my senior Pomeranian Yuki, who would get bad separation anxiety when left alone at home. I came across SoCal Pomeranian rescue and found a long list of Pomeranians available for adoption. At the very end of this list of dogs was Starr. He was described as a 10 year old male, born without eyes and a front leg. I reached out to the Pomeranian rescue about this special dog and learned further about Starr's history. He had been adopted by the rescue from a shelter 5 years prior and despite being fostered out by many people he had never been adopted. Hearing this broke my heart and I knew that I had to give Starr the permanent, loving home that he deserved. I could just imagine the stress it must have been for him to be blind and to constantly have to acclimate to new homes and people every few months. When I met Starr I did not know what to expect, I had met blind dogs before and many were introverted and uneasy getting around. I was prepared to handle any challenges that might present itself with Starr regardless and was excited for him to meet Yuki. Upon meeting Starr I knew I was dealing with an extraordinary dog, and whoever named him did so aptly! He is such an intelligent, vivacious and loving animal who can map out novel environment extremely quickly. He gets around with very little difficulty and values his independence! I noticed the less I coddle and assisted him when we would play outside the happier he was although he did appreciate the attention at home especially when it comes to hugs, belly rubs and cuddling. I was worried he would be constantly injuring himself and was trying to troubleshoot how I might prevent this. Surprisingly this very rarely happens because he is so well adapted to his condition. Most people cannot even tell Starr is blind and tripod; he goes up to people, plays with others and plays outside as if he can see. Speaking of being outside Starr loves to take in the smells and sounds of the outdoors, even after playing, going for walks and exploring he loves to just sit on my front porch and hang out there greeting others as they come in or pass by. I always joke that he is my little "watch" dog because he truly "sees" things before me or my other dog do because his other senses (smell, hearing) are so acute. Him and Yuki complement each other so well; Yuki is a rescue herself and although I don't know her past she has always been a little timid, especially around new people and did not like being outdoors. Since adopting Starr she is much more extroverted, comfortable around others and loves to explore outside when Starr is there :) They rely on each other as a source of security and comfort and can often be found cuddling together. Lastly, even on my worst days I can't be down with Starr (and Yuki) in my life. Starr wakes up bright and early in the morning and is always excited to start the day with belly rubs and a walk. His outgoing and loving disposition has brought so much joy to mine and Yuki's life I am so grateful I found Starr and feel so privileged to be able to take care of such a wonderful animal. He completes our little family and me and Yuki love him so much.