Billy (left) has kisses for Bonnie

Billy and Bonnie: always together

ESRA is pleased to share with you the story of Billy and Bonnie. These sweet seven-year-olds were relinquished to a Georgia rescue when their elderly owner moved into a nursing home and was no longer able to care for her dogs. The rescue reached out to ESRA, knowing that we would be able to provide them with the care they desperately needed.

This case is very unique in that the dogs appear to be littermates, and both are afflicted with a genetic condition that has affected their vision. A veterinary ophthalmologist’s examination found that Bonnie has subluxated lenses in both of her eyes. The condition has been present for a while and has rendered her completely blind. Her left eye is no longer viable, and has shriveled and shrunken into the socket. Her right eye, while no longer able to see, is still intact. She is not exhibiting any signs of pain or discomfort. This sweet little miss relies on her buddy, Billy, to help guide her, and the two of them are extremely bonded.  

Billy’s case is slightly different. While he also has subluxation in his left eye, his right eye has been diagnosed with glaucoma, a painful condition that also greatly affects his vision. Thankfully, his left eye actually has good blood flow, which renders him an excellent candidate for cataract surgery to remove the affected lens and improve his vision. ESRA’s plan for these two is, first, to keep both dogs comfortable with ointments and drops.  

Billy has been scheduled for surgery on September 25^th, both to remove the damaged right eye (a procedure known as enucleation) and to repair the left eye. We are hopeful that removal of the clouded lens in Billy’s left eye will provide him with much better vision than he has had in some time. When spending any amount of time with these two lovely Springers, it is quite obvious that Bonnie relies heavily on Billy. She follows him everywhere and he stays close at her side. It is our hope that by providing Billy with the procedure he needs for a brighter future (and much better vision), he will truly and literally become Bonnie’s “seeing eye dog.”

To meet these dogs is to instantly love them. They are both equally sweet and affectionate. They are appreciative of any love that is passed their way and thrive, not only on the bond that they share, but also with a human connection. Once Billy has recovered from his eye procedures, these two sweethearts will be relocating to Savannah, GA, for fostering until their Forever Family can be found. Any adopters fortunate enough to let these two into their heart and home will find themselves doubly blessed.

As with most of our Special Needs cases, the cost of Billy’s procedures does come with a financial commitment that ESRA has chosen to absorb. Your donations and support are appreciated and go a very long way to ensuring that we are able to continue assisting Springers like this adorable pair.