Katie

Available

4 years old|Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler|Female|Medium|Belmont, NY

♿️ Disability🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate

Katie

Available

4 years old|Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler|Female|Medium|Belmont, NY

♿️ Disability🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate

Katie is a female Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog mix located in Belmont, NY. She’s around 3 years and 11 months old, spayed, vaccinated, and classified as medium-sized. Katie is blind and requires special attention, making her search for a special adopter who can appreciate her strengths despite her disability. She gets along with dogs and has proved to be both friendly and affectionate.

About Katie

Here’s the story of two sisters, Gracie and Katie, whose bond runs deeper than most. When their owner could no longer keep them and most shelters were full, these blind girls faced a grim fate—until a last-minute opening gave them a second chance. Katie and Gracie arrived anxious and disoriented, but gradually settled in with gentle, slow introductions to their new environment. Over the past few weeks, they have found comfort in a quiet room together, learning to trust those around them. Day by day, Katie has grown more confident, eager for chin scratches and delighted when she recognizes a familiar voice. She loves her daily walks, exploring by smell and sound, and always seeks out affection from staff. Katie’s progress is real and hard-won, moving from shut down to openly playful and generous with kisses. Both sisters must be adopted together—they’re a bonded pair and thrive in each other's company. Though blind, at just three years old, Katie is full of personality and promise. She navigates her world with enthusiasm and truly shines with loving, patient care. She gets along well with other dogs and is searching for a home where her resilience and devotion will be cherished. Ready to fall in love? Hit apply and lets get started.

Questions about Katie

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Katie’s Border Collie and Australian Cattle Dog heritage means she thrives in a home where she has structure, patience, and steady companionship. A secure and calm environment suits her best, especially since she relies more on her senses of touch and hearing.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Dogs like Katie typically enjoy space to roam, but due to her blindness, a securely fenced yard or supervised outings allow her to explore safely. She enjoys gentle walks and new smells in controlled settings.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Katie’s breeds can be good with children when supervised, especially if the kids are taught to respect her boundaries. Her gentle and affectionate nature helps, but calm, predictable interaction is best.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Because of her blindness and breed mix, Katie does best with an adopter who has some dog experience and can patiently support her needs. Experienced owners are ideal, especially for navigating her special requirements.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Katie gets along well with other dogs, and her breed background often enjoys social canine company. She will likely do well with other dogs who are gentle and understanding of her blindness.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog mixes can sometimes have a prey drive, but each individual varies. Katie’s blindness may temper any chasing behaviors, though careful, slow introductions to cats would be recommended.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Katie’s breeds may be curious about small animals due to their herding instincts. With her blindness, she may be less reactive, but adopters should supervise any interactions closely at first.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Dogs like Katie can be reserved at first but warm up with time. She responds especially well to gentle voices and patient handling, given her reliance on hearing and touch.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
While moderately independent, Katie benefits from regular companionship. Her blindness means she does best with someone home often or a consistent routine so she feels safe.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Katie’s breeds are very smart and willing to learn, but her condition means she’ll need positive, patient training focused on touch and sound cues. She appreciates routine and clear guidance.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Katie is a medium-sized mix, usually weighing in the 30 to 50 pound range. She is agile and sturdy, making her a good fit for many home types.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog mixes like Katie often live between 12 and 16 years with good care, so she has many years of companionship to offer.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Katie’s breeds tend to shed seasonally with moderate grooming needs. Regular brushing keeps their coat in better shape and reduces loose hair around the home.