This is Benito's Story

These are pictures of Benito the first two where taken when he was rescued the last as he is now.

For Bigger pictures click on pictures
 

 
Benito was born in 2001.  A Catalan Sheepdog, he spent the first few years of his life as a working farm dog.  When he was four years old, he began to suffer hereditary blindness, which over time impaired his vision more and more.  When he was no longer of any use to his owner, his loyal and faithful service was rewarded by him being chained to a wall in full sun, and given a can of stagnant water to drink and dry bones and crusts of bread to survive on.  Slowly, the blindness took over and he completely lost his sight.

He was discovered in an appalling and pitiful condition. His fur was completely matted and covered in ticks and fleas and he was suffering from dehydration and malnutrition.  A.P.A.H. with the assistance of the Guardia Civil rescued him and began the task of restoring him to health.  A trip to the Veterinary Hospital in Murcia confirmed that nothing could be done to restore his sight, but his matted coat was shaved, relieving him of the ticks and fleas, and with a proper diet, he was soon restored to health.

Benito's calm and gentle nature shone through all the pain and torture that he had been made to suffer.  He is a beautiful, loyal and trusting dog, with very special needs.  Two years ago A.P.A.H. were pleased to see Benito settled into a loving home.  Sadly though, circumstances now mean that once again, A.P.A.H. is involved in trying to find a new home for Benito, as his current owner can no longer keep him.

This third home must be his final one.  He is not an old dog, he is only eight years old, and although he cannot see, that is his only disability.  Any kind of re-adjustment will be very difficult for him to understand.  Benito's new home must not be offered and accepted on impulse.  He has specific needs both practical and emotional.  His home must be a safe and calm environment where he can learn to trust his surroundings.  Swimming pools and stairs for example are dangerous for him.  It would also be better for him if there were no young children or other dogs.