Heartbreaking Photo of Blind and Deaf Dog Asleep Alone Amid Shelter 'Chaos'

A photo of a blind and deaf dog sleeping in an animal shelter has shattered hearts online.

The picture is captioned: "There is something utterly heartbreaking about seeing Buddy sleeping all alone amidst the chaos that is shelter life." It has been shared 3,200 times on Facebook.

Newsweek spoke to Kimberly Cary, the social media coordinator at Main Line Animal Rescue about five-year-old Buddy.

"He is very inspiring and doesn't let his 'special abilities' hold him back at all. Once he is comfortable and knows his surroundings, he is just like any other dog!" she said.

Cary explained that the pit bull mix was once homeless with his two sisters, who are also deaf. However, the sisters have since found forever families as Buddy desperately waits for his turn to be loved.

It is estimated that about 5 to 10 percent of dogs in the United States suffer from deafness, either in one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral), according to the American Kennel Club.

Buddy's potential owner may need to make some adjustments in their home to help him navigate his way.

Cary told Newsweek: "Buddy would be great in a home that is able to dedicate a lot of love and time to him. It will take him some time to adjust to a new home, and his future family needs to be patient. He will need time and a structured home environment to be successful."

Looking after a disabled dog may not be easy, but it is certainly worth it. Cary said Buddy is willing to enjoy hikes and adventures and wants nothing more than him to find a loving person to call his own.

"He will be a great co-pilot in life to the special person who adopts him! Buddy gets along great with other dogs, but we want to set him up for success, so we are looking for a home with no other dogs at this time so he can transition most easily," said Cary.

Canines are ruled out but a "dog-savvy cat" would be fine for Buddy, who is happy to share his space with a feline.

So far, the heartbreaking post shared on the Pennsylvanian shelter's social media page has amassed 1,400 likes and plenty of comments.

One user said: "Blind and deaf pibbles are so special - he will make the perfect addition to somebody's home. I hope he finds one soon!"

"My Christmas wish is for him to be in a home for the holidays!" said another.

A third user said: "This picture breaks my heart, If we didn't already have two big dogs I would adopt him in a heartbeat he looks like the biggest love bug I hope her finds his forever home soon. Just in time for Christmas."

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