Blind golden retriever Smiley | Burlington pet photographer

Smiley. Saying this golden retriever’s name just makes you grin – it’s impossible not to.

Every dog I meet is special. Whether it’s their personality, history or relationship with their family, I am inspired by each four-legger I photograph. Smiley is all of that and so much more. I call him a “heart dog” — when you meet him, even if it’s just for a moment or two, he changes you. Maybe this sounds hokey to some, but Smiley’s presence is one of peace and unfettered joy. He is happy in a simple, straightforward way that we can all learn from. And his name is truly fitting — he smiles ALL the time. Which makes everyone around him smile. It’s totally contagious and it just makes you feel good.

Smiley was born without eyes and spent his first few years in a puppy mill. His condition also gave him a few other quirks: he is smaller than your average golden, but he has really big teeth. His back legs are a little bowed. And he looks like a puppy — from his size, to his soft, fuzzy coat, you would never guess this boy is nine years old.

Despite his difficult beginnings, Smiley now has an amazing family, and is also a certified therapy dog who gives comfort to mentally ill and disabled patients every week. He loves to be in contact with people.

Now, onto the photos. Smiley is the easiest dog I’ve ever photographed — he is so well behaved and low-key.

In fact, a few times he would settle right in like he was going to take a nap. Of course it’s hard to tell if he’s actually sleeping … I think he enjoyed playing this game with me!

Shortly after rescuing him, at the age of two, mom Joanne had Smiley’s eyes sewn shut. He looks like he’s smiling so much that he’s squinting. So. Darn. Cute.

I think this next shot is an all-time favourite of mine. The light was amazing and Smiley was so content.

Smiley is completely in tune with Joanne. From the sound of her footsteps to the tone in her voice — her cues let him know if he is safe or if there is an obstacle in his way. He relies on her and trusts her completely. It is an amazing bond that they share.

Smiley likes to introduce himself to everyone. How could you not fall in love with this face?

You might be wondering how Smiley gets around. Well, he bumps into things a lot. And as I quickly learned, when he’s running towards you, he doesn’t know when to stop! But otherwise he gets along just fine. In fact, as he’s going about his doggy business — sniffing, listening, frolicking, nuzzling — you forget that he has a disability. Joanne doesn’t want people to treat him differently or think “poor Smiley.” She says it’s important that he explores his surroundings on his own, using his own instincts, without people hovering over him or cringing every time he bumps into something. She is always close by, and she’s a dog trainer herself, so Smiley is always safe and very well loved.

I’m not the only one who thinks Smiley is special. He has been in the media and has been on stage with Cesar Millan as an “inspirational dog.” You can read more about Smiley in this newspaper article and in this article Joanne wrote for Cottage Dog magazine in which she recounts his first time swimming.

Thank you so much for introducing me to your “heart dog” Joanne. And to Smiley, who made me smile so much my face hurt! I hope we meet again soon.

Wags,

Stacey