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Deaf Stray Dog Spends 2-Years in Shelter Waiting for ‘Forever’ Home

By: Russel Moneva
Russel Moneva, a Viral Content writer at iHeartDogs, finds joy in both crafting engaging content and pursuing his passion for basketball and fitness whenever he's not immersed in his work.Read more
| June 16, 2024

Rascal’s story is one of remarkable resilience and the transformative power of unconditional love. Completely deaf and with visual impairments, Rascal’s journey from a stray on the streets to a beloved pet in a shelter showcases the incredible ways animals can adapt and thrive when given a chance. His tale highlights not only his struggles but also his immense capacity for joy, companionship, and affection. Despite the hardships he’s faced, Rascal’s spirit remains unbroken, proving that love and care can make a world of difference in the life of a rescue dog.

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Rascal was a stray, wandering the streets alone when he was found at about two years old. He had no microchip, leaving his past a mystery. How long he had been out there, struggling to survive, is anyone’s guess. What is certain, however, is that his life took a significant turn when he was rescued.

When Rascal first arrived at the shelter, he was incredibly shy and fearful. His past experiences had left him wary of humans and the world around him. However, everything began to change when Emma, one of the dedicated shelter workers, entered his life. She spent time with him, sitting quietly in the field, allowing Rascal to approach her on his own terms. Slowly but surely, Rascal began to warm up to Emma, his tail wagging tentatively, signaling the start of his journey toward trust and safety.

Despite his disabilities, Rascal is an incredibly fun-loving and affectionate dog. He thrives on being close to people, often trying to “talk” back to them, even though he cannot hear their words. Rascal’s ability to sense communication and respond with such enthusiasm is truly remarkable. His interactions are filled with joy, making those around him smile with his playful antics.

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Rascal is exceptionally friendly with other dogs. He adores their company and becomes a bundle of energy when he’s around his canine friends. Watching Rascal run around, wrestle, and play is heartwarming. His joyful spirit is contagious, and it’s evident that he finds immense happiness in these moments of playfulness.

One of Rascal’s favorite activities is jumping into the kiddie pool. He loves the water and often gets the zoomies, running away only to return and splash around joyfully. His playful nature in the water is simply adorable, bringing laughter and delight to everyone who witnesses it. Rascal’s love for water play is just one of the many ways he expresses his happiness and zest for life.

Rascal’s appearance is as unique as his personality. With one blue eye and one brown eye, he stands out in a crowd. While his vision may not be perfect, especially from a distance, he manages remarkably well up close. His unique look adds to his charm, making him even more endearing to those who know him.

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Although Rascal cannot hear the words of love spoken to him, he undoubtedly feels the affection and care that surround him. His actions speak louder than words, showing his gratitude and happiness in the way he interacts with those around him. Rascal brings immense joy and amusement to the shelter staff and visitors, his unique personality shining through despite his disabilities.

Sadly, Rascal has been in the shelter for two years and has not received many adoption applications. His disabilities have likely deterred potential adopters, but those who know him understand that his differences make him special. Rascal has a few toys in his kennel, a little blanket on his bed, and he occasionally enjoys the company of shelter staff who sit with him while he chews on a toy. These moments of companionship mean the world to Rascal, who patiently waits for someone to take him out, treats or not.

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Having spent two years in the shelter, Rascal’s entire world has been confined to his kennel. He has never experienced the warmth and love of a home environment. It’s heartbreaking to think that he does not yet know what it means to be truly loved and cherished in a forever home. The shelter staff hope that one day, Rascal will find a family who will see beyond his disabilities and recognize the loving, joyful dog he is.

Rascal’s story is a testament to the resilience of animals and the profound impact of love and care. Despite his challenges, Rascal continues to bring joy and laughter to those around him. His journey is far from over, and the hope remains that one day he will find a loving home where he can truly feel safe and cherished. Until then, Rascal’s spirit and unique personality continue to inspire and touch the hearts of everyone he meets.

Click the video below to watch this incredible story!

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