There’s nothing that dog parents wouldn’t do for their furry friends. We strive to give them the best life possible, showering them with love and care.
Unfortunately, many stray dogs live without that affection, yearning for a taste of the love they’ve never known.
Luca was a charming Pomeranian, dreaming of unconditional love as he roamed the streets, just trying to survive. Life on the streets was tough for him, especially since he was nearly blind. Everything around him was just a hazy blur.
Fortunately, Luca was rescued by the largest animal shelter in New York City, the Animal Care Centers of NYC. They took him in and provided him with the care he desperately needed.
Adjusting to Shelter Life
Even though Luca now had a roof over his head, adjusting to shelter life wasn’t easy. The sweet pup felt anxious and overwhelmed.
While he stayed in his kennel, listening to the barks of other dogs, he wondered if he would ever find the love he had always dreamed of.
My dog seeing for the first time post-cataract surgery
byu/SnuzieQ inaww
One day, Katie Schneller walked into the shelter where Luca was staying. The moment she laid eyes on him, she fell in love instantly.
Katie began visiting him every day. Although Luca couldn’t see her smiling face, he felt her warm hugs and absorbed all the love she offered. Their bond grew stronger with each visit.
Katie knew she had to take Luca home and give him all the affection he deserved.
Leaving the Shelter
Before leaving the shelter in New York City, Luca said his goodbyes to the staff who cared for him.
He was bubbling with excitement about going to his new home. Even though he couldn’t see his new parents, he could feel their love surrounding him. They showered him with cuddles and spoke to him in gentle tones. Luca couldn’t stop smiling.
As time passed, however, his eyesight worsened. He started bumping into things and even had to make a trip to an emergency clinic.
It was during this visit that Katie realized Luca needed cataract surgery.
The surgery went well! Katie and her family were overjoyed when the vet told them that Luca would be able to see clearly within a week.
On the drive home, Katie glanced at Luca. Despite his swollen eyes and stitches, he looked genuinely happy. Once they arrived home, Luca used most of his time resting and catching up on sleep.
Discovering the World
A few days later, Luca was ready for a walk with Katie. This time, he would finally get to see the beauty around him.
Instead of racing around like before, Luca took slow steps. He gazed at everything in wonder as if it were his first time seeing it all.
“He would sit in the middle of the road and look up at the trees,” Katie shared with The Dodo. “Then walk over to the edge of the road and stare at the river with his mouth open.”
His eyes sparkled with amazement as he smiled widely. He cherished every moment spent with Katie, who had become so important in his life.
Life After Surgery
Luca occasionally shares updates about his adventures on Instagram. When he’s not hiking or cuddling with his family, you can find him lounging on the couch or peering out of the window.
This delightful pup is still mesmerized by everything around him.
Luca is living his best life now, surrounded by love from his parents who adore him just as much as he loves them back.
A Soulmate Connection
“He feels like my soulmate,” Katie expressed. “He is the cuddliest, smartest, happiest pup I’ve ever met.”
Luca has brought so many wonderful people into her life. “I love him in ways I have trouble putting into words … every day it’s more than the last,” she added.
Katie often reflects on how far Luca has come since those early days in the shelter. His transformation from a frightened stray dog to a beloved family member is nothing short of miraculous.
Every day is an adventure for Luca now; whether it’s exploring new trails or simply enjoying quiet moments at home, he embraces life with enthusiasm.
His story has inspired many people online who follow him on social media. They celebrate not just his journey but also how much joy he brings into Katie’s life and others around them.
We’re all thrilled that this sweet boy found a family that loves him immensely and made him one of the happiest pups around!
