Raina was born blind and deaf, however thanks to her owner, Kristen Strouse, she enjoys a life of swimming, hiking, and more.
A blind and deaf dog from Perkasie has been named a finalist for the American Humane Society’s “Hero Dog” award.
Raina, who was born both blind and deaf, secured enough votes last month to win the Emerging Hero and Shelter category, and she will now advance as one of five pups vying for the overall “Hero Dog” award. The other four categories are Military Dog, Law Enforcement Dog, Service Dog, and Therapy Dog.
A winner will be named at a ceremony on Nov. 10, after a panel of judges from various backgrounds reviews the stories, videos, and photos of the five remaining finalists.
American Humane is the country’s first national animal welfare organization. The annual Hero Dog Awards is a nationwide competition that searches for and recognizes dogs in the five aforementioned categories.
Raina’s owner, Kristen Strouse, said they have been dedicated to the Blind Dog Rescue Alliance, where they have been raising funds and awareness about the unique needs of dogs like Raina, as well as fostering other dogs with special needs. Strouse is a music teacher and created the Lending a Paw program, which intertwines music education with community service.
“Thank you to all who voted for my fuzzy marshmallow Raina,” said Strouse.
For members of the community who would like to meet and support Raina, you won’t have to wait long. The American Humane Hero Dog Team will be hosting a Pups and Pipes charity event at Saint Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Perkasie on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 4 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, seeks to raise funds for dogs in need as well as aid in the restoration of the church’s original pipe organ.
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