Pelted With Rocks in Afghanistan, One Eyed Dog is Flown to The US and Finds Her Forever Home

In a world that can sometimes overwhelm us with negativity, stories of compassion rekindle our belief in humanity. One such tale of resilience and hope is that of Clementine, a shelter dog in Afghanistan who lost an eye to humans who pelted her with rocks. In a vast happy twist of fate, Clementine’s world turned around. From the violent streets of Kabul, she found herself in a shelter in the United States where just recently she finally found a forever home.

A Heartbreaking Encounter

Clementine is a three-year-old shepherd mix stray who lived on the streets of Kabul in Afghanistan. She was often beaten and pelted with rocks by inhumane people and adolescents until a compassionate rescuer discovered her. Clemmy was in a dire situation, suffering the loss of one eye, hurt by the stones. She was taken to the KSAR (Kabul Small Animal Rescue) Shelter, an organization commendable for its rescue and rehabilitation of strays, even exporting rescue animals for adoption in the USA.

The Healing Process

Despite the unimaginable cruelty, Clementine’s spirit remained unbroken. This dog aimed to survive; fortunately, lady luck smiled on her, too. At the rescue shelter, Clementine received immediate medical attention. Veterinarians worked tirelessly to ensure she was comfortable and to help her recover from her injuries.

Speaking about Clemmy, KSAR explained how she was brought to them in the fall of 2021. Her eyeball had been ruptured from rocks pelted at her, and she was missing an ear. With limited surgical resources and under a flashlight, vets operated on her to seal the wound. After that, despite her pain, Bella’s loving nature shone through. She showed remarkable strength, gradually learning to trust again.

Journey to a New Life

In May 2024, Clementine was chosen as part of a contingent of 200 dogs and 100 cats to be flown to the United States. She had already endured the worst side of humans and a pathetic life, but all that was about to change. Clementine was taken in by Passion for Pets Rescue, a shelter in Brunswick, Maine. Along with 2 other dogs from Afghanistan, Clementine was given the attention and care she deserved. Her sweet temperament immediately began winning hearts at the shelter.

Clementine is a Shy but Sweet Dog

In September, PFPRO published a post on their Facebook page, in the hopes that Clemmy would find a forever home. The gist of the post says:

“Meet Darlin’ Clementine. Clementine is a sweet girl looking for a forever home where she can feel safe and loved. Clementine is shy at first, but with patience and much love, she blossoms into a loyal and affectionate companion. Her resilience is truly inspiring, and her calm demeanour will melt your heart. After slow introductions, she gets along well with other dogs and would thrive in a quiet, nurturing environment.

Clementine’s ideal home would include A patient and loving family or individual, a calm household without too much noise or commotion.

Preferably, no small children or animals, as sudden movements can startle her with their lack of vision. Dog savvy cats ok, but a secure yard where she can explore at her own pace.”

Clementine’s Foster Home

Soon Clementine began living with her foster parents Paul and Suzanne Lemont. Fosters like the Lemonts provide a family environment and a home for dogs where they acquire the care and focus needed to be rehabilitated and recover from trauma. Lemont described Clementine as a sweet and happy dog who got along just fine. He hoped she would soon her forever home, and that wish was finally fulfilled in October.

Finally a Forever Home

In October, Clementine was finally adopted by Erica and David DeMarco who felt an instant connection when they first saw Clementine. “Within seconds, we just knew she was meant to be ours,” said Erica. “I showed the adoption post to my husband Dave, and he immediately reached out to Lisa Bouchard at Passion for Pets in Maine. Within days, we were approved to meet Clemmie!”

The DeMarcos, who live just outside Boston, have the perfect setup for Clementine. With a spacious yard and David’s flexible work schedule as a realtor, he has plenty of time to spend with her at home. Clementine even joins Erica at W.O.W., the women’s clothing boutique she owns. The couple expressed deep gratitude to Passion for Pets and Kabul Small Animal Rescue for rescuing Clementine and thanked the Lemont family for fostering her along the way. The shelter now expresses hope that the other dogs from Afghanistan will also find their forever homes soon.

Clementine may have lost an eye and an ear, but she did not lose her joy or the ability to love. She is affectionate and playful, with a zest for life that can brighten anyone’s day.