In the spring of 2015, Zoe, a blind and older cocker mix dog was surrendered to the Langlade County Humane Society in Antigo. The Humane Society adopted her out at no charge due to her age and blindness. Her adopters, Tina Larson and her husband, happily adopted Zoe knowing full well her time could be limited, also donating the adoption fee to the shelter.

Today, ZoZo, as she is called, has the life of luxury. She has three dog sisters and lounges around at will. She is still blind, but because of the great care she has received in her new home, she no longer needs daily eye drops. She has also learned how to use the doggy doors in the home so she can go in and out on her own. She even models for the Foster & Smith Pet Catalog.

Tina, who works for Petco in Rhinelander, said that she and her husband have absolutely no regrets taking on a special needs dog and hope they have many healthy years ahead with ZoZo.

It just goes to show, a pet may be considered “broken” by some, but they still deserve to have loving homes and there are many people willing to adopt pets with special needs.

The Langlade County Humane Society is a privately funded, non-profit animal shelter run by a board of directors and it is heavily dependent on volunteers to assist in the daily operation of the shelter. They provide a safe, comfortable, temporary home for stray and surrendered animals before placement in loving homes. If you would like to adopt a pet or make a donation, their hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday and Friday 12PM -4PM, Thursday 12PM-4PM and Saturday 12PM-4PM. The shelter is closed Wednesdays and Sunday, but will open by appointment only. They are located at 2204 Clermont Street in Antigo.