Born without eyes, Smily the Golden Retriever became a certified therapy dog after he was rescued from a puppy mill by dog trainer, Joanne George. Working primarily with adults and children suffering from mental illness, Smiley brings a sense of joy and comfort to all those he encounters.

He often visits a local library to spend time with children who have autism and experience difficulty reading. As George explains, “These kids who were born with different disabilities are able to see that dogs, too, are born with the same disabilities. It’s important for them to see what Smiley has overcome, and that he’s happy.”