Blind and Deaf Australian Shepherd Pulled From LA Shelter Is Defying the Odds—Now Shelby Needs the Right Home

Shelby’s story could have ended quietly in a crowded Los Angeles shelter—but instead, she got her second chance. Despite being both blind and deaf, this 1-year-old Australian Shepherd hasn’t let anything slow her down. With the help of her foster and the rescue Eddie’s Heart, Shelby has been learning how to navigate the world in her own remarkable way—and she’s thriving.

She may only see faint shadows through one eye, but Shelby experiences life fully through her incredible sense of smell, touch, and trust. Over the past few months in foster care, she has blossomed into a confident, joyful, and deeply affectionate companion who just needs the right environment to continue shining.

Why Shelby Is So Special

🐾 Age: 1 year
🐶 Breed: Australian Shepherd
💖 Sweet, social, and full of personality
🧠 Exceptionally smart—has learned multiple touch-based commands
🐕 Loves other dogs and thrives with playful companions
💦 Water lover—pools, sprinklers, buckets… she’s all in
🌟 Resilient, adventurous, and full of life

Shelby is the kind of dog who makes an impression instantly. She’s playful and goofy, always ready to engage, and she absolutely lights up around other dogs. Because she can’t hear or see clearly, she relies on physical cues—and she’s already learned commands like sit, down, calm, and good through touch and consistency. Her ability to adapt is nothing short of incredible.

She does best in a structured environment where her people can guide her and advocate for her needs. She sometimes gets a little too enthusiastic during playtime, so she’ll need a home that can help her settle and respect other dogs’ boundaries. And while she loves her canine friends, cats are not a good match for her.

What Shelby Is Looking For

✔️ A home with a securely fenced yard (no apartments or high-rises)
✔️ A patient, committed adopter who will continue her routine and training
✔️ Another playful dog would be a huge plus
✔️ Someone willing to advocate for her and help her navigate safely

Shelby is currently being fostered in Los Angeles and is available for transport anywhere in the U.S. through Eddie’s Heart, which has successfully placed many dogs in loving homes across the country.

Shelby isn’t defined by what she lacks—she’s defined by her spirit, her resilience, and her ability to connect in ways that go far beyond sight or sound. She just needs someone willing to see her for who she truly is.

Could you be the one to give Shelby the life she’s been working so hard for?

Rocky Kanaka