My name is Beyla and I am not a guide dog. However, my momma, Meredith, the National Development Director, asked me to share my journey through blindness. As a 5-year-old Morkie crossbreed, I have been told that I am not only cute and smart, but my friendly and gentle personality is my biggest asset. I love to snuggle, jump on furniture, and play with my favorite toys—my ball and stuffed fox. Don’t you love my spikey hair? My journey with blindness began when I was still a puppy. Click the button below to read more.

At 3-years-old my momma and daddy rushed me to the emergency vet because the pressure in my right eye soared to 98 accompanied by piercing pain. Over the next several weeks I required numerous drops in my eye—with the hopes of saving it. I was able to keep my eye, but one year later the same thing happened in my left eye. Again, I was rushed into emergency surgery to control the fluid buildup. A diagnosis of genetic glaucoma soon followed. Today, I am blind in one eye and have some residual vision in the other.

Although my diagnosis has been challenging, momma and daddy are diligent at giving me daily drops in both eyes. I have been told I am quite resilient, and I continue to learn how to adjust and navigate successfully. My sweet-natured personality has not been affected and I feel I can serve as an inspiration to other dogs experiencing blindness. There is life after blindness, and I am living it to the fullest.

Thank you to the BVA Ambassadogs for allowing me to share my story.  If you are a BVA member and interested in having your dog featured in the Ambassadog Scoop Series, please send a message via email to bva@bva.org.