Zeva, a special dog in need of a new home

• Boxer mix dog lost her eyes
• Looking for loving home once medically cleared.

What she lacks in eyesight she more than makes up for with a huge heart.

Zeva is a 3-year-old boxer mix who lost her eyes to glaucoma and is learning to interact with the world blind.

Paws It Forward is a volunteer operated charity that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes dogs. They took Zeva in, arranged for her to get the necessary operations, and connected her with a foster home.

Zeva is staying with Lisa who has been fostering dogs for over 10 years. She has experience with special needs dogs, but this is her first time with a blind canine.

“It’s been interesting because she is very versatile and she has adapted quite well to her new blindness,” Lisa said.

“She’s hesitant and slow but as she’s come to get to know her way around and navigating [the house] she’s gotten more confident. And so, she’s exploring a little bit more. She’s coming into this a bit quicker than I would expect.”

While Zeva is a large and broad dog, she was extremely friendly when Kelowna 10 caught up with her. According to Lisa, this is typical of her personality.

“She looks like she’s a big burly dog. I call her a Teddy Girl, because she is the sweetest, most affectionate dog I’ve ever fostered actually.”

Once Zeva has recovered from her operations and gotten used to life without sight, she will be up for adoption.

“I hope that she gets into the most loving, patient home possible, because she is the best dog and I think she deserves the best. So, I really hope she finds the perfect home for her,” Lisa said.

“Be prepared for lots of face washes. And have some patience because she is adapting still. So just understand where she is coming from and help her introduce things slowly so she can adapt.”

Those interested in adopting Zeva once she no longer has a medical hold are encouraged to visit pawsitforward.org/adoption. There are also other dogs waiting for a family to take them home.

Paws it Forward is also asking for donations on their site to help with the costs associated with taking care of dogs like Zeva.

They operate solely with volunteer effort, including their board of directors. All money raised goes to vet care, supplies, transportation, and dog food.