Many people are hesitant to adopt a pet with special needs, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience!
Videos by InspireMore
Aiden Michael Mann is a trans man and veterinary assistant from Nashville, Tennessee. He’s a proud dog dad to Lola, a Staffordshire bull terrier mix, and a miniature Australian shepherd named Plum, who was born deaf and partially blind due to bad breeding. At first, Aiden had some reservations about adopting her, but once they met, he fell in love!
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“I definitely didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but I did know that I loved her and wanted to give her a good life,” he said.
While it’s taken time to adjust to Plum’s special needs, Aiden’s slow and patient training has been paying off.
“We have ‘sit’ somewhat down, which is a touch under her chin,” he explained. “And when I want her to follow me or go in a certain direction, I will softly guide her nose in the direction we are going or run my hand along her body in the direction I want her to go.”
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One big challenge has been finding a good way to wake Plum up without startling her. After some trial and error, her dad figured out the trick is to gently blow on her nose.
He shared a video of their progress on TikTok, which quickly went viral because it’s sweet enough to warm the coldest of hearts.
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After all, even though Plum still gets a little startled, the moment she recognizes her dad, she can’t get close enough. What an adorable pair!
Watch their precious interaction in the video below, and be sure to share the love with your friends.
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