Last November, authorities rescued 108 dogs from what is believed to be the largest dogfighting operation in Michigan. Among these was a blind dog discovered chained outside with only a dilapidated shed for shelter.
This rescue mission was undertaken by Bark Nation, a Detroit-based animal welfare group committed to ending dogfighting and saving animals, alongside federal and state law enforcement.
Veterinarians examined the dogs and found that one of them, a gentle dog who was completely blind, likely lost his sight due to injuries sustained in dogfighting encounters.
Jessica Brown, the Director of Operations at Bark Nation, shared insight into the dog’s difficult past, saying, “We can’t imagine how traumatic it must have been for him, to live outside, not protected by the elements, and be fully blind.”
The dog, affectionately named “Turkey Jerky Snack” (also called the KING) by shelter staff, quickly became a favorite among volunteers.
While Turkey is beginning to adjust to life at the shelter, he dreams of finding a permanent home. Despite his challenging experiences, he is ready to shower a new owner with love. Navigating new environments without sight can be daunting, so Turkey has a special wagon that takes him outside daily.
He’s longing for a cozy corner and someone to snuggle with, making TV and movie enthusiasts ideal adopters. While Turkey is blind, his spirit of love shines brightly. He is still eager for adventures like park visits, but most of all, he cherishes being close to someone. His perfect day is cuddling up to enjoy a film with some dog-friendly treats.
The shelter shares, “He’ll happily have a Disney movie marathon, eat cheese pizza, and snuggle his people all day on the couch.”
While Turkey waits for his forever family, he’s being pampered with goodies and has recently earned some fame by winning the Best Actor award at the shelter’s “Bark-ademy Awards”. In a statement, the shelter said, “The Bark-ademy Award winner for Best Actor melts the hearts of everyone he meets. He is sweet and silly and keeps everyone on their toes! Our winner is hoping that his newfound fame and glory would bring him closer to adoption. He has had fun playing with another dog in our shelter and may enjoy a canine pal. He is fully blind and 100% perfection.”
Turkey will need a fenced yard and a patient family to help him settle into new surroundings. With careful introductions, he might even enjoy living with another dog, and the shelter offers assistance to facilitate this.
For those interested in adopting or fostering Turkey, further information is available.
While several dogs from the “Great 108” — a nickname for the rescued dogs — have found new families, many others are still waiting for their chance at a happy life. Discover more adoptable dogs here.
Bark Nation’s mission to eliminate dogfighting and care for rescued dogs continues. Since 2018, they have found homes for over 450 dogfighting survivors with the help of their partners. Operating without government funding, they depend on the support of generous donors. To learn about their inspiring efforts and ways to contribute, visit their website.
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