Blind Jack Russell terrier pup gets second chance thanks to Lennoxtown couple

Stephen and Nicola Brannan stepped in after the owners of the 18-month-old pup, who has cataracts on both eyes, had to give him up.

STV viewers can watch Jack’s story unfold on tomorrow night’s (Friday, July 15) episode of Animal 999, which focuses on the incredible work of the Scottish SPCA.

Joe McDade, manager of the animal welfare charity’s rescue centre in Milton, West Dunbartonshire, said: “Jack was diagnosed with cataracts shortly after he was born and was taken in by the Scottish SPCA as his owner felt they could not give him the special care he needed.

“Brave Jack underwent a successful operation to remove the cataracts just before Christmas, costing £3,000, and spent the next few months recovering in our care.

“He is an absolutely wonderful little dog who was a firm favourite with our staff and put a smile on the face of everyone he met.

“We are so happy we were able to find Jack a loving home and we are delighted to have been able to change this little lad’s life for the better.”

Three months after his sight was restored through the skill of surgeons at the University of Glasgow Vets School, the pup has settled in well with the Brannan family who already have another Jack Russell terrier, four-year-old Archie.

Stephen told the Herald: “My wife Nicola works at the vets school and that’s how we heard about Jack.

He added: “We had been talking about getting another dog for a while. Nicola went out to see him at Milton animal home - and the rest is history!”

Stephen said Jack was “a bit hyper” when he arrived but didn’t take long to settle down.

He added: “Both dogs are grand, they get on well. Jack’s confidence wasn’t great when he arrived but he’s fine now.”

A spokesperson from the show said: “The future’s looking great for the blind terrier who’s been given the gift of sight.”

Animal 999 is on every Friday night on STV at 8pm, giving viewers an insight into the fantastic work carried out by Scotland’s leading animal welfare charity, Scottish SPCA (Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to protect and care for thousands of domestic, farm and wild animals every year.

The organisation opens its doors for STV’s cameras, following the dedicated work of its inspectors, rescue officers and rehoming teams as they save and care for abused, abandoned and injured animals all over Scotland.

Elizabeth Partyka, deputy director of channels at STV, said: “I hope viewers enjoy the return of this popular series, with a brand new set of captivating rescue cases and a unique look behind the scenes as Scottish SPCA goes above and beyond for Scotland’s animals.”