June 3, 2010

(PHOENIX) – Last March, some neighborhood children heard a dog crying for help from the bottom of a 20-foot sinkhole. In partnership with the Phoenix Fire Department, the Arizona Humane Society’s Emergency Animal Medical Technician™ (EAMT™) was able to rescue the dog, a four-year-old Australian shepherd/Chow mix, affectionately named Sinkhole Sam.

        Remarkably, Sam had no broken bones or other massive injuries from the fall, but AHS vets did realize that he was blind, which explains he ended up in that sinkhole. Other than his vision impairment, Sam was in good health and he was just so lovable. When his microchip came back with an invalid number and after fruitless searches to find his owner, we knew we had to help this sweet boy. So we got him to the eye doctor who confirmed his blindness and also diagnosed him with glaucoma.

        Due to the pressure from the glaucoma, the doctor removed Sam's eyes to reduce serious problems down the road. Sinkhole Sam has spent several weeks recovering in foster care and is feeling happy and healthy. Now AHS is looking for a home for this loving dog.

        “Sam is a resilient dog who has persevered through a tough couple of months,” said Kimberly Searles, spokesperson for the Arizona Humane Society, “His sweet personality has won the hearts of our staff and we just know he’s going to make a great pet for someone.”

        Sam will be available for adoption beginning at 11 a.m. this Friday, June 4 at the Sunnyslope Facility (9226 North 13th Avenue). His adoption fee is $110 and includes his neuter surgery, first set of vaccinations, leash, collar and ID tag and a free follow-up veterinary exam. Sam is one of many animals at the Arizona Humane Society who is need of a good forever home. To view these animals and to find adoption locations, please visit www.azhumane.org.