All dogs need a specific home to fit their needs, but dogs with disabilities need families who are even more patient and committed to their care. A German Shepherd puppy named Emerson was born with special needs, causing her legs to not move as they should. The pup can’t walk naturally, but she doesn’t let that hold her back from living her best life.
The rescue that Emerson is at has helped her adapt to her unique lifestyle. She has come a long way in foster care, but now, she’s ready for something more. She’s looking for the perfect forever home!
A Strong, Determined Puppy
Emerson was born with spina bifida, hip dysplasia, and deformed knee joints, making walking nearly impossible. Her previous owners were unable to care for her special needs, but they didn’t want to put her down. So, they surrendered her to Paws 4 the Cause in Lexington, Kentucky.
“When she came in, and we met her, we noticed she’s a very special puppy, and she so much wanted to live and was not allowing her disability to hinder her in any way,” said Paws 4 the Cause General Manager Anita Spreitzer.
Emerson crawled around with no issues, so the staff at the rescue found a way to make moving easier for her. They got her a custom wheelchair so she can run and play just like any other dog.
The adorable puppy is currently about five months old, and she has already outgrown two of her wheelchairs. The rescue is raising money for a bigger wheelchair so the puppy can move freely at every stage of her life.
Adopt Emerson!
Emerson is currently living in a foster home, but her foster family can tell that she’s ready for a forever home. She needs a family that can be patient with her and is willing to take on her special care requirements.
She will need to wear a wheelchair for her whole life, and she needs to have a diaper on indoors. When full-grown, Emerson could weigh up to 80 pounds. Potential adopters should keep that weight in mind since Emerson will need to be lifted into her wheelchair. She gets along well with children and other dogs, but she would prefer a home without cats.
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“There are very special people out there that love these types of animals and want them to live out their life,” said Spreitzer. “It’s very rewarding. She is so smart that she can become something very special.”
If you’re interested in giving this beautiful puppy a forever home, you can fill out an adoption application on the rescue’s website.
Featured Image: Facebook
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