I have known people with blind dogs and deaf dogs. Just like anything else, you – and the dog – just learn to adapt. My aunt’s Dalmatian, for instance, only has three legs. Shortly after she was adopted she became friends with my aunt’s horses and runs with them all the time. In fact, she became such a good runner that she outruns all the other dogs (my aunt has six of them). Even though she’s a special needs dog, she didn’t let her disability affect her life. She’s made the best of it and my aunt often brags about how proud of her she is.

Unfortunately, there are some who only see the special needs rather than the pet. Many rescue organizations are trying to change that and some only take in special needs dogs and cats. Here are three of those organizations that help the animals who may need it the most.

1. Blind Dog Rescue Alliance
Working throughout the United States and Canada since 2009, the Blind Dog Rescue Alliance hopes to educate the public about these special needs dogs. They reinforce the notion that blind dogs adapt well to being blind, many are therapy dogs and they can even be participants in Iditarod.

2. Pets With Disabilities
This organization started after its founders adopted a dog who later became disabled due to an accident with another dog. His spinal cord severed, their dog was wheelchair-bound. Shortly after that, they heard about another disabled dog no one wanted to adopt. She had been at a shelter in New York for more than five years. They promptly adopted her and gave her a loving home. Their mission is to educate people about pets who have disabilities so that none go without a loving home.

3. Secondhand Snoots
While this rescue brings in all types of animals, their focus is on those with illnesses, injuries and special needs. They are dedicated to rescuing and rehoming them and giving them better lives. In order to do so, they offer educational seminars at pet expos, schools and businesses.

This is just a small sampling of rescue organizations that help special needs pets. There are many others who do just as great work. Help spread the word by sharing this article.