Halo collar helps shelter dog navigate life without sight

Over the years, hundreds of pets have called my office at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center their temporary home. Whenever a cat or dog comes to share my workspace, it means they need quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the adoption center. It is one of my favorite perks of the job, and my most recent office mate left an indelible mark on my heart.

At just 4-years-old, Fawnie has lost her ability to see. Her previous owner knew she was visually impaired but never took her to a specialist. As her vision continued to fade, Fawnie became anxious around other dogs. She was about to be dropped at a shelter when a PAL board member stepped in to save her. He drove Fawnie all the way down from New Jersey so we could give her the second chance she deserves. 

When Fawnie arrived at PAL, we immediately took her to an eye specialist who confirmed that she is completely blind. Now it was our job to help Fawnie learn how to navigate life without sight. She adapted quickly at PAL, going on walks, and learning to be around other dogs and new people. Thanks to a caring donor, we were able to outfit Fawnie with a halo collar to help her navigate.   

A loving couple has decided to take Fawnie into their hearts and home. They come to PAL several times a week to spend time with her and gain her trust. Soon, our trainer will take Fawnie for a 2-3-hour intro into her new home. In the weeks to follow, PAL will offer support to Fawnie’s new family as she transitions. 

A degenerative condition may have taken Fawnie’s vision, but nothing could ever change her sweet nature. I will always remember our time together sharing an office. Pets like Fawnie have a remarkable way of making our lives better simply by being present.

If you know someone who cherishes their time with a special pet, give them a gift full of meaning this holiday season. Have a pet portrait tile made and displayed at PAL’s No Kill Adoption Center “In Honor” or “In Memory” of a beloved pet. Two pet tiles are normally $150, but this month, you can get two for just $100! 

One tile will be permanently displayed on the walls of the PAL Adoption Center and the second tile can be given as a gift. We will provide a gift card that you can present to a recipient explaining how PAL’s pet portrait tiles pay it forward to help homeless pets. 

Order today and your holiday gifts will rescue more pets like Fawnie.  


Amy Campanini, Palmetto Animal League President

Click here to see this story and other local news in The Bluffton Sun. 

Thank you to our PAL Partners in Rescue, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun for being beacons of compassion and hope for homeless pets in our community. Please show your support for these local animal loving businesses!