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Best Friend

  • Writer: Austen Hayes
    Austen Hayes
  • Jan 12, 2018
  • 1 min read


When I photograph Beale I generally take a side or back shot...he's completely blind. I almost feel I'm protecting his dignity to not show his eyes...one bright blue, the other clear, marble-like. He was found 5 years ago, lost on a Georgia highway. Through the wonderful group, Labs4Rescue, I agreed to be a foster guardian, but quickly found it impossible to let him go. It takes a while for a blind dog (or person) to 'map' their environment. Once that map is wired into the brain, the blind get around very well. A new home would mean more work. He'd been through enough.


Based on Beale's weight when he was found, and knowing stray dogs don't last long on their own, the vet said he was likely on the road for about 10 days. When he first arrived, his brow was furrowed as if in a state of constant fear. The furrows are gone, his brow smooth, he's now a loving, relaxed, pup. I wonder how this came to be...how we found each other. Miracles.

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Austen Hayes
Austen Hayes
16 jul 2020

Thank you, Johanna...I'm the fortunate one. I love him so much! I know your nephew will have many years of joy...they're the best.

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marusso
16 jul 2020

Isn't this all true for any loving relationship? Protection, respect, love, calming. It IS a miracle that we have the capacity to assuage another's fears and bring love and light, even if they are blind in one way or another. I love this photo of Beale. Beale of the velvet snout and satin ears. He's majestic.

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Johanna McHugh
Johanna McHugh
15 jul 2020

Beale is fortunate to have you. My nephew adopted a black lab puppy a few months ago.

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