Larry the raccoon is a special needs animal who continues to defy the odds. Found abandoned in a field at just four weeks old, Larry was blind and unable to walk due to cerebellar hypoplasia. He was taken to a vet’s office, where they planned to euthanize him. However, fate had other plans for the tiny raccoon.
Elizabeth, a licensed wildlife rehabber in Florida, received a call from a fellow rehabber about Larry’s situation. With a soft spot for special needs animals, Elizabeth decided to take Larry in and give him a chance at life. She has since rescued and rehabbed over a thousand animals, including 180 squirrels at one time.
When Elizabeth first brought Larry home, he was in critical condition and required 24-hour care. It took about a month before he started showing signs of improvement, but Larry’s will to live was strong. Now, he is a happy and healthy raccoon despite his disabilities.
Larry can never be released into the wild due to his blindness and inability to walk. However, he has found a loving home with Elizabeth and has even bonded with another raccoon named Pixie, who also has cerebellar hypoplasia. Raccoons are social animals, and having each other has greatly improved their quality of life.
Elizabeth has not had a vacation in nine years due to her dedication to rehabilitating wildlife. She cannot leave Larry with a pet sitter because he is considered wildlife, but she finds her work incredibly rewarding. Larry has become a source of inspiration for her, helping her through her own health issues and giving her a reason to get out of bed every day. Captive raccoons can live up to twenty years and Larry is only a year old. Raising Larry is a big commitment that Elizabeth hasn’t shied away from, and she says she never will.
Feeding Larry is the highlight of Elizabeth’s day, as he gets such joy out of eating. Larry lovingly holds Elizabeth’s hand through each feeding, knowing she is his lifeline. If she leaves the room, Larry will call for her, and he listens for her voice when she is nearby.
Though Larry will always require special care, he has defied the odds and continues to bring so much happiness to those around him. His story proves even the most vulnerable animals can thrive with the right support. To meet Larry and experience his sweet, loving nature, click ‘play’ on the video below.
Toledo, United States.
