Rest in peace Leo
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Anyone that knows German shepherds, knows that they live for their job. A shepherd named Leo took it upon himself to be a guide to his blind friend, Ellie – a King Charles Spaniel.
Several months ago the Manchester Evening News shared the touching story. Ellie, the blind Spaniel, was one of five in a litter of puppies taken in by the RSPCA.
Ellie lost her sight because she had been kept in the dark and the muscles surrounding her eyes had not developed correctly. With her rough start in life and her special needs, it was crucial that she go to a special home.
The home that included Leo the German shepherd was exactly what the doctor ordered. Leo’s owner, Julie Landen, was a volunteer with the RSPCA. She knew that her big dog had a special love for small dogs and felt that Ellie would do well in her home.
Landen’s suspicions were dead on. Leo immediately took to the small dog – and she to him. Leo became Ellie’s eyes – guiding her and protecting her from any potential harm.
Funds to help Ellie regain her sight were raised by the RSCPA and she underwent a successful surgery. Landen was ecstatic for the little Spaniel.
But just one week after the surgery – one week after Ellie became able to guide herself safely through her world – Leo had to be euthanized.
A tumor was discovered in the senior dog and the difficult decision was made to have him put down. The joy for Ellie was tempered by the passing of her beloved guide, guardian and constant companion.
According to Landen, it was almost as if Leo kept himself going just long enough to ensure that his small friend would be ok. If you know a shepherd, that is probably the case.
Rest in Peace Leo.
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That is very touching and very sad but beautiful and touched my heart.
I Love All animals and especially German Shepherds.
Just want to say R.I.P. Leo you were a beautiful beautiful dog who saw to a friends needs and seems you were not good yourself but stayed around to make sure your mate came good.
God Bless all animals who are sometimes better than humans.
Thanks for stopping by Rae. I also love animals, and have four German shepherds, and four rescues (one of the shepherds). Hope you stop by again.
A bittersweet tale but a fine read.
Poor Leo. I was like Pamela because I thought the first part was wonderful and then the end, literally. I love dogs so much more than most people I know.
If only people could learn that kind of compassion. R.I.P. Leo.
Bitter sweet. Tears.
This story started out so sweet that I was actually smiling, then BAM! I feel so sad now. And once again I’m reminded of my own dog that I had to “put down”.
Our dogs become part of our families and are in our hearts forever.
Leo’s owner will miss him terribly. 🙁