Born without eyes, Smiley inspires everyone he meets as a therapy dog

Now at nearly 12-years-old, Smiley has led a happy, healthy life, despite his rough start. Smiley, a golden retriever rescued by Joanne George of Stouffville, Canada, was born with dwarfism and without eyes.

Thanks to George, the gentle pup became a certified therapy dog through the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog program. He spends his days comforting and inspiring patients in hospitals and nursing homes and helping kids in schools focus on their reading.

"People were so drawn to him, so inspired by him...I have to share him," George told CBS News.

George also had Smiley to thank for all the great memories that she continues to have with her happy canine. "He's changed my life," she said.

When Smiley isn't inspiring everyone he meets, he keeps up with his therapy dog training, which fans can follow on Facebook.

He also likes to do normal dog stuff, like begging for treats and napping away the afternoon with his other animal pals.

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