Sandi Lost Her Vision Overnight; Her Rescue Stepped Up Immediately

At Pet Releaf, we’re constantly inspired by the resilience of rescue animals and the people who fight for them. One story that recently touched our hearts comes from our partners at Hunter’s Village Rescue, a Florida-based, foster-driven nonprofit working to save the lives of at-risk dogs in the Orlando area.

Founded in 2019, Hunter’s Village Rescue operates out of the Hunter’s Creek community in southwest Orlando. Their mission is simple but powerful: rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome unwanted and abandoned dogs by placing them in loving foster homes.

One of their most remarkable rescue stories is that of Sandi, a sweet Golden Retriever whose world changed overnight.

A Bright Start and a Sudden Turn

Sandi entered the care of Hunter’s Village Rescue on April 25, arriving with her sibling Molly. She was healthy, full of joy, and quickly settled into her foster home. By April 30, she had been spayed and fully vetted. Her future seemed wide open.

Then, on the morning of Sunday, May 4, Sandi woke up completely blind. Her eyes had become cloudy overnight. She was rushed to an emergency veterinary hospital where she spent the day undergoing exams and tests. Unfortunately, there were no immediate answers, only uncertainty and rapidly increasing medical expenses.

The Right Help at the Right Time

Refusing to give up, Hunter’s Village Rescue contacted the Veterinary Eye Institute, who responded with urgency and compassion. Sandi was seen on Tuesday, May 6, which was also her 4th birthday.

After a thorough exam, Sandi was diagnosed with Golden Retriever Uveitis, a rare and often devastating autoimmune condition that causes inflammation within the eye. The disease typically leads to cataracts, scarring, glaucoma, and, in many cases, permanent blindness. Sandi’s case was one of the most aggressive the specialists had ever encountered.

Sandi’s Strength and Spirit

Despite the grim diagnosis, Sandi has already shown signs of improvement. She's regained a small amount of vision and is responding to treatment. She is now on lifelong medication and continues to see her veterinary ophthalmologist every two weeks.

The early days were heartbreaking. Sandi was confused and disoriented, unsure how to move through a world she could no longer see. But her foster family (who had not expected to care for a blind dog) never hesitated. They showed up offering constant love, reassurance, and support. Thanks to their dedication, Sandi is regaining confidence and adapting to her new reality.

Looking Out for Molly

As a precaution, Hunter’s Village also brought Sandi’s sister Molly in for an eye exam. Thankfully, Molly’s eyes are healthy, and she will continue to be monitored.

Fundraising That Made a Difference

Just one day before Sandi lost her sight, Hunter’s Village Rescue had completed a major yard sale fundraiser on May 3. That event provided the emergency funds needed to secure Sandi’s specialized care without delay. The support of their community made all the difference in those critical early moments.

Giving Back

At Pet Releaf, we believe in supporting the organizations making a tangible impact for animals in need. To honor Sandi’s journey and support the ongoing work of Hunter’s Village Rescue, we’re hosting a donation match from June 18 through June 20.

For every Pet Releaf product purchased during this window, we will donate one product to Hunter’s Village Rescue. These donations will directly benefit rescue dogs like Sandi, offering natural support for stress, mobility, recovery, and overall wellness.

You can also donate directly to Hunter's Village and support Sandi's ongoing care.