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Blind San Diego puppy, guide sibling capture hearts around the globe

Star and Denver.JPG
Star and Denver 1.JPG
Posted at 4:39 PM, Feb 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-26 19:39:54-05

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Two puppies soon to be up for adoption in San Diego are already capturing hearts around the world.

Two 3-month-old terrier-blends, named Star and Denver, were taken to Helen Woodward Animal Center on Feb. 11 after their mother had been dumped in a rural location in Louisiana. They were taken by van about 1,900 miles through a partnership with the rescue group Heart of Louisiana.

Once in San Diego, it wasn't long before staff learned about Star's unique challenges and special bond with her brother. Star is blind and deaf and Denver had taken on the role of guide dog for his sister.

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"While the rest of [Star's] littermates frolicked without her, her brother Denver kept a protective eye on her," the animal center wrote. "Choosing Star as his main playmate, the two were rarely apart and when separated, Denver would come running back to love on Star and let her know he was there."

The pair's heartwarming story has made its way across the world, according to the animal center. Helen Woodward workers say they've fielded calls from New Zealand, Canada, and states across the U.S. inquiring about the duo.

Lucky for San Diego, the animal center says the pair's next family must be local so that the center's trainer can help them begin their lives with a special needs puppy.

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“It’s really extraordinary,” stated Helen Woodward Adoption Services Manager Dora Dahlke. “We never stop learning from animals. These two really can teach us all a thing or two about sibling love and how much we can achieve with the love of a good friend.”

Though the duo was supposed to placed up for adoption together this week, the center says Denver was recently stung by a bee. Once the swelling goes down, the puppies will be available for a new family.