A 4-month-old puppy who couldn’t walk on all four legs because of a severe deformity has undergone surgery and is now well enough to be adopted into a forever home.
A concerned citizen called County Animal Services Aug. 13 about a sick dog in the College area of San Diego. An Animal Control officer found a mixed-breed Chihuahua puppy with severely deformed back legs.
The puppy was taken to the County’s animal care facility on Gaines Street, where the medical center staff discovered the problem was the result of a congenital birth defect. That didn’t slow him down any; he simply learned to walk using just his front legs.
The dog, named Scooter by the staff, underwent orthopedic surgery to correct his back legs so he could walk normally. The operation cost about $4,000 and was covered by the Animal Services’ donation-driven Spirit Fund. Now eight weeks after surgery, Scooter has recovered to the point where he can be adopted.
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“This little pup would not let his deformity slow him down,” said Animal Services Director Dawn Danielson. “But with his surgery, we hope Scooter can now enjoy a full, happy life with a wonderful new family.”
While Scooter has been cleared for adoption, he must still undergo physical therapy to help his muscles develop. The adopter will be provided eight sessions at no charge at “Pawsitive Rehabilitation” in Pacific Beach.
Anyone interested in adopting Scooter must complete a Special Adoption Application. It can be dropped off at any of the department’s three facilities or emailed to dasinfo@sdcounty.ca.gov. Completed applications must be received by 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13.
Staff will review them and select the home they feel best meets the needs of the dog and call the top candidates for a visit with Scooter at a later date.
The adoption fee for Scooter is $69 and includes vaccinations, neuter, microchip, license and a free veterinary visit.
