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For fifteen years my wife Lynn and I have been fortunate to be part of an extended family, which includes two children, several dogs, cats, horses and a donkey. We have cared for several “special needs” animals who, while requiring extra attention, adapted well to their conditions to continue leading happy, productive lives.
Lynn and I first met Samantha, a Dachshund cross puppy, at my cousin’s veterinary hospital. “Sam” was one of several puppies from a litter taken to the clinic. While the other puppies were healthy, Sam had malformed legs. Even though she was three months old, Sam had never stood up. The caring staff at the veterinary clinic improved the puppy’s condition significantly with physiotherapy. They hoped that she would progress enough to lead a relatively normal life. Progress Sam did! Sam has been a part of our family for eleven years now. The spirited and loving dog learned to stand, jump onto the couch, walk and even run short distances! Occasionally her tremendous spirit gets her into trouble as she chases and nips at some of her much larger canine siblings.
Teddy and Gandalf were two of our larger dogs who lost the use of their hind ends due to disease. Teddy, a Shepherd cross, and Gandalf, a Scottish Deerhound, both learned to adjust to their conditions with grace and dignity.
Caring for Teddy and Gandalf was more work, but it was worth it. We wrapped the couch and their beds in plastic (vapour barrier) and covered them with old blankets and comforters. The plastic offered protection while the blankets and comforters provided warmth and comfort and were easily cleaned.
Teddy and Gandalf were content resting on their beds. When the weather was nice we took them outside. While both dogs would have preferred their previous energetic lives, they adapted to their conditions and enjoyed the less active periods of their lives.
Teddy passed away quietly in his sleep. Recently we had Gandalf euthanized, as his disease progressed to the point where he was uncomfortable and no longer seemed to enjoy life.
Several years ago Winston, our old Terrier cross, developed mature cataracts and lost his sight. A couple of years later he became deaf. Winston adjusted well to his loss of sight and hearing. He quickly learned to navigate the family (dogs’) room and kitchen where he spends most of his time. He also efficiently navigates the fenced-in yard, including the holes constantly being dug by our Siberian Huskies!
A year ago Squeakers, our large, tabby cat, was diagnosed with diabetes. Our very sick feline responded well to treatment. Now, with daily insulin injections, Squeakers is back to being his energetic and affectionate self.
Physically challenged people who lead active lives are highly regarded by society. Their perseverance and will to once again lead as normal lives as possible is impressive and honourable. Rising to meet a challenge is an important part of life. People trying to overcome a physical disability are usually given much encouragement and assistance from family, friends and others. Unfortunately, companion animals with similar limitations often do not receive the same recognition and help. With support, patience, understanding and love many of our physically challenged animal companions can continue leading productive, happy lives.
Living With Blind Dogs: A Resource Book and Training Guide for the Owners of Blind & Low Vision Dogs. Caroline D. Levin R.N. 1998. 181 pages. (This book is available from Caroline Levin at: 18709 S. Grasle Road, Oregon City, OR., USA, 97045, web site: www.teleport.com/~dlevin
Living With a Deaf Dog: A book of advice, facts and experiences about canine deafness. Susan Cope Becker. 1997. 115 pages. ISBN: 0-9660058-0-5 Contact: Direct Book Service at: 1-800-776-2665, www.dogandcatbooks.com
© N. Glenn Perrett
