What is the first thing you think of when you see “Special Needs” on an adoption site? Foxy was one of our special needs dogs and this is what her mom says,
The phrase “special needs” doesn’t bother me. I look more for a dog that will be a good fit for my home and family.
Nobody’s perfect and that’s also true for the animal world.”
Most reactions will likely fall into two categories. The first being “Aww the poor thing!” and the second being “No thanks, too much work and money”
Let’s talk about the “Aww, the poor thing”
There are many definitions of “Special Needs”. Some animals come with a genetic defect that causes them to be lame, blind, or deaf. In those cases, the dogs don’t know any other way of being, they have adapted to their abilities and are for the most part just as happy and well-adjusted as any other dog. At other times, dogs have either been injured or experienced some disease that left them with a permanent condition that needs attention. In those cases, there is a wee bit of a “Aww, poor dog” factor. But by the time these special dogs are ready for adoption they have over-come the odds. Their conditions are stable, and they are waiting for their families. All they need is someone who understands their condition and will ensure that the dog’s needs are met. All they need is someone like you!
That was the situation with Foxy
She was rescued off the streets of La Paz and had a limp. It is uncertain how she sustained the injury. Her rescuers had her assessed and together with the veterinarian felt the best solution to relieve the chronic pain was surgery.
Quote from Foxy’s mom now,
“It’s hard to tell she’s had hip surgery. Today she runs like the wind along the shoreline. I think sometimes that leg does compromise her fast, tight turns but she takes it in stride. She can jump but it’s clear that she has some limitation.”
Foxy Girl
How do you define special needs?
There are many conditions that fall under the “Special Needs” moniker. Dogs who lost an eye due to injury or an infection that wasn’t attended to. That dog may be a little clumsier than his dog pals but that can also be very endearing. You will learn to walk on his sighted side so he can see you and feel safe and more comfortable.
Three legged dogs believe it or not are quite common. Here in La Paz, leg injuries occur because some dogs are not contained in a yard but instead roam the streets where they can be hit by cars. Removing the leg relieves the chronic pain that the dog experiences daily. It is awkward for a while until they build up the muscles in the supporting legs to accommodate the missing limb. Dogs are so resilient and adaptable.
There are conditions that you can’t spot by looking at the dog. Perhaps there is a kidney condition or an enlarged heart or GI problems. All of these can be controlled with medication or diet, and yes sometimes it means medications for their whole life.
Brave's back was broken before she got rescued. Stuey could not use his hind legs. Bingo, blind, still enjoys romping on the beach Tutty could still run like the wind on 3 legs.
Special People Adopt Special Needs Dogs
People who adopt a “special needs” pet are unique. They have this “can do” attitude coupled with an infectious enthusiasm that transfers to the animal. They are committed to the success of the dog and will to do what it takes to make the animal a functional part of their family. That starts by providing a safe environment in their home and yard and goes on to provide training, exercise, and mental stimulation that their pet needs to become a well-balanced dog. Those are the goals of every pet owner regardless of the pet’s abilities.
Here is what Foxy’s mom says about her special attention.
“Her veterinarian gives her Adequan injections on a continuing basis. I take her to a dog gym, and she works with a trainer certified in canine body conditioning.
She also enjoys warm water therapy. But these are all being done as a preventative measure as I want her to be mobile and pain free as long as possible.”
Next is “No, thanks, Too much Work and Money”
Often these special pets are over-looked because people think there are extra costs that come with the special needs. That is often not the case. Blind and deaf dogs are perfectly healthy and can live long lives with their families. Deaf dogs can learn hand signals to communicate and even blind dogs can chase a ball because their sense of smell kicks in to help them find the ball. Dogs with loss of mobility chase around in their wheelchairs and can often keep up with their dog pals in the park. Dogs demonstrate their ability to adapt every day and their resilience is amazing.
Give them some love, and they will work magic for you every day. In fact, Foxy recently won the AKC Novice Trick Dog for 2020. Pretty darn good for a “Special Needs” dog!
Tips to Prepare for a Special Needs Pet
No matter what condition these “special” pets have they deserve to have their “hoomans” plan and prepare the environment to ensure their unique needs are met.
- Find a Veterinarian that understands the dog’s condition
- Always follow your Veterinarians instructions
- Talk to a Specialist if necessary
- Establish a routine for exercise, feeding etc.
- Research on-line resources and support
- Explore and understand your options
- Maintain consistent surroundings for your dog
And take care of yourself. This is all new to you and your pet, take your time and enjoy the process of learning to care for each other.
We believe that full transparency is a must when talking to prospective adopters. Our goal is to find a perfect family to fit the dog’s needs. And we truly want this to be the “Forever” home for them.
“I knew I would probably have to spend money on her medical issues as she got older, but I’m fine with that. However, it’s true that a seemingly healthy animal may also need significant medical treatment as they age.”
Clearly you can see how one person’s experience adopting a dog with “special needs” has turned out to be just a “special” dog in so many ways.
“She’s also very sweet and great with my two cats. Foxy is quite the wiggler when she meets new people. She loves to meet new dogs also and always solicits play with them. Everybody falls in love with her.”
If you are looking for a new dog to adopt, consider a “Special Needs” animal. Give yourself the opportunity to help an animal become the best they can be.
Foxy’s mom, thinking about her decision to adopt Foxy…
“Yes, I would do it again. There’s a warm, happy feeling you experience when you give a home to an animal that others overlook. You get that feeling every time they look into your eyes.”